Rules for Removing Stains From a Wedding Dress
The number one rule of stain removal is don’t make it worse. Never go with your first instinct to rub or scrub the stain on your wedding dress. Instead, if the stain comes from a liquid, use a white paper or cotton towel to blot away as much moisture as possible. For solid residue on the fabric of the dress, use the edge of a spoon, a dull knife, or a credit card to gently lift it away. When it is time to treat the stain, always work from the outer edges toward the center to help prevent the stain from spreading. All cleaning products should be tested first on an interior seam to make sure there is no color change or damage to the fabric. Once the stain is removed, if you must dry the area in a hurry, use a hairdryer, but be sure to keep it set on low heat and at least six inches away from the dress to prevent damage to the fabric, trim, and beading.
Stock Up on Stain Removal Supplies
Cotton swabsWhite cotton or paper towelsClear dishwashing liquidStain removal wipes or penIsopropyl (rubbing) alcoholSticky tapeDull edged knife, spoon, or credit cardBaby powder, cornstarch, baking soda, white or off-white chalk
Out, Damned Spot, Out (or at Least Hide), I Say
If a stain finds your dress in the weeks before the wedding, the safest bet is to take it to a professional dry cleaner. But if there isn’t time for all that, here are some tips on how to remove or hide different types of stains on your wedding dress and save the day.
How to Remove Common Stains from a Wedding Dress
If the worst happens, try sticky tape or a hairdryer to remove dry powders, and lift away blobs of lip gloss or foundation with a dull edge. Use baby powder to absorb oily smears and a stain removal wipe or a bit of makeup remover on a cotton swab for colorful stains. Again, always work from the outer edges toward the middle to keep the stain as small as possible.
