Costume Storage Guide

Always air out first

Never store a costume immediately after wearing — moisture causes mildew

Use breathable bags

Cotton or muslin garment bags only — never plastic

Padded hangers

Wire hangers distort shoulders and snag delicate fabrics

Cool & dark

Heat and light fade colors and degrade elastic and synthetic fabrics

Bodysuits & Leotards

• Hand wash and air dry completely before storing
• Fold flat — do not hang (stretches the fabric)
• Store in a breathable drawer or flat box
• Keep rhinestone pieces face-up to avoid stone snags

Gowns & Dresses

• Hang on a padded hanger in a breathable garment bag
• Never compress — allow the skirt to hang freely
• For beaded/sequined gowns, store inside-out to protect embellishments
• Use acid-free tissue to stuff structured bodices

Corsets & Structured Pieces

• Store flat or loosely rolled — never folded
• Loosen all laces before storing
• Use a breathable cotton bag
• Keep away from humidity to prevent bone rust

Feathered & Fringed Costumes

• Always hang — never fold or compress feathers
• Store in an oversized breathable bag with room to breathe
• Keep away from other garments that could snag fringe
• Fluff feathers gently with steam if crushed

Rhinestone & Sequin Pieces

• Store flat or hang — never fold (stones pop off at fold lines)
• Wrap in acid-free tissue if folding is unavoidable
• Store separately — rhinestones snag other fabrics
• Do a stone check before storing after each wear

Accessories & Headpieces

• Store in individual boxes or compartmentalized cases
• Wrap delicate pieces in acid-free tissue
• Keep headpieces on a stand or stuffed with tissue to hold shape
• Label boxes for quick backstage access

Clean before storing

Never store a soiled costume long-term. Sweat and oils set permanently and attract pests.

Use acid-free tissue

Regular tissue paper is acidic and causes yellowing over time. Use acid-free tissue for padding and wrapping.

Add cedar or lavender

Natural moth deterrents. Avoid mothballs — the chemicals damage synthetic fabrics and leave a permanent odor.

Check every 3–6 months

Inspect stored costumes periodically for moisture, pests, or fabric issues. Refold along different lines to prevent permanent creases.

✗ Storing in plastic bags — traps moisture, causes mildew, and degrades elastic and synthetic fabrics over time.

✗ Storing while damp — even slight moisture causes mildew within days. Always air out completely first.

✗ Wire hangers — distort shoulder seams and snag delicate fabrics. Always use padded or wide plastic hangers.

✗ Folding rhinestone or sequin pieces — stones and sequins pop off at fold lines. Store flat or hanging.

✗ Storing in direct sunlight — UV light fades colors and degrades elastic, spandex, and synthetic fibers rapidly.