Thread: How do you wash your Bella chiffon skirts?

I just received a costume, and the skirt has some food stains on it and what looks like a footprint too. What is the best way to wash a chiffon skirt and what type of cleaner should I use? Luckily there aren't any beads to worry about. It's a doulbe layered, 2 color skirt so I will probably just try to handwash the top layer which is turquoise and keep the burgundy layer from getting wet.

Thanks for any help!

I have a lime green and yellow double layer bella chiffon, I threw the whole skirt in the tub with some cool water and a little woolite and swished around vigorously, and, oh yeah, the bra, belt and gauntlets were in their too. I rinsed in cold water. Everything came out clean and undamaged, no color bleed or anything. And fyi, I have done this with every costume I own, including my crystal encrusted Madame Abla and a vintage pharonics. They all benefited greatly from a good bath, and are still in excellent shape.

ETA: I would use a little woolite to pre-treat any oil-based stains first.

ETA2: Oh yeah, pics too please!

I'd use Woolite BLACK (which is specifically meant for delicate fabrics that could bleed color). Yes I would separate the skirts by leaving one out of the tub/sink/whatever... Shouldn't be a problem but keep in mind that if there are sequins on it (like Bella sometimes does for ruffles or such hanging from the top) they could "tarnish" in color a bit... Good luck! Post pix of the new cossie!!!

Same as above but I use Seventh Generation Free and Clear detergent, cold water. I use the sink method first but for an unusually soiled costume the washer (on hand wash cycle for the bra, belt, etc.) as a last resort. Cigarette smoke or heavy perfumes sometimes require two hand washings. Remove excess water with old towels and air dry. I never use the dryer on any part of the costume. Since this skirt is two colors, try to wash only one color at a time in the sink just to be safe.

Thanks everyone! I have some Biokleen laundry detergent which I am going to try. I don't use commercial cleaning products if I can help it... going to wash it in the sink first, cuz I'm nervous

Will let you know how it comes out and will post photos!

To be honest, I put all my chiffon skirts and veils in a lingerie bag, and wash them in the machine on cold/delicate with a bit of Woolite. Never had a problem with bleeding!