Thread: Dry Cleaning Your Costumes?

OK, so I did a music video shoot awhile back. The musician wanted me to wear a white costume. The set was more...umm....grungy...than I'd expected. You do the math. ,r:;

My poor costume needs more than just a Woolite bath, but I'm a little scared to bring it to the dry cleaner. Is it safe to dry clean a Lycra costume? Anyone want to share experiences, tips or insights?

Maybe take it to a place the works with cleaning Bridal gowns. I took a ball gown to a dry cleaner and most of the beads were melted together. The dress was ruined.

Lycra and beads are not compatible with heat and strong chemicals. Most dry cleaners here require the customer to sign a waiver of liability so they are not responsible for damage.

Aw, man...that sucks ,m::

I might just have to give it a couple of Woolite baths and hope for the best. Shame on me for not bringing a backup costume to my shoot ,r:;

The seamstress who alters my costumes works at a dry cleaners, and the first time she saw one of my costumes she said "Don't ever have this dry cleaned!" The chemicals will destroy the beads and sequins.

I am sooooooooooooo glad I asked! .w.:..c::

You can try soaking it in oxy clean. If that doesn't work, try contacting a wedding dress resoration and preservation expert. However the cost for a service from these specialists may cost more then the costume itself.

I once told a bride I'd be happy to dance in the color of her choice...if she bought me the costume in addition to my regular fees & gave me 12 weeks notice. Sigh. live & learn! I've actually had good luck with Charlie's soap- gets things out great, nice & gentle, doesn't mess up bead/sequin colors, cheap...

Originally Posted by Lara L

I once told a bride I'd be happy to dance in the color of her choice...if she bought me the costume in addition to my regular fees & gave me 12 weeks notice.

LMAO! I'm stealing that. Unfortunately, I don't have a giant walk-in closet filled with Bellas in every shade of the rainbow ..cr.:

i've washed costumes in woolite and i've also washed them in my regular detergent. i find my regular detergent does a way better job of cleaning then woolite and i've never had anything get ruined or tarnish on me either. i've washed every single costume i've ever owned in a tub with commercial detergent, let it sit for a good long while and then gave it a really good rinse. sometimes i repeat the process if it's really dirty.

i use ultra soft toothbrushes, nail brushes, or wash cloths for scrubbing out dirt and grime. i've rarely had a stain i can't get out.

good luck!