As the saying goes, “dress for success.” And what better way to achieve success than by wearing a sage green dress? Sage green is a color that exudes sophistication, elegance, and class. It’s a versatile color that can be worn on various occasions, from weddings and formal events to casual outings and work meetings. However, to ensure your sage green dress looks as good as new, you need to store it properly.
Clean the Dress Before Storing
Before storing your sage green dress, you should clean it. Clothes that are stored with dirt, sweat, or stains can attract insects, and the stains can set in, leading to discoloration. Therefore, it’s essential to clean your sage green dress before putting it away. But, before you start cleaning the dress, you need to check the care label to determine the best cleaning method. For instance, some sage green dresses may need to be dry-cleaned, while others can be hand or machine washed.
If the dress can be washed, use lukewarm water, mild detergent, and avoid using bleach. Also, turn the dress inside out to prevent the color from fading. Rinse the dress thoroughly and hang it on a hanger to air dry. Avoid using the dryer, as it can shrink the dress or cause the color to fade.
Choosing the Right Storage Location
The location you choose to store your sage green dress is critical in ensuring it remains in excellent condition. The ideal storage location should be cool, dry, and dark. Exposure to sunlight can cause the color to fade, so avoid storing the dress in direct sunlight. Also, avoid storing the dress in a damp or humid area, as it can lead to mold or mildew growth.
It’s best to store the dress in a closet or wardrobe that has a door to keep it protected from dust and other elements that can damage the fabric. If you don’t have a closet or wardrobe, you can use a garment bag or cover to protect the dress. However, ensure the bag or cover is made of breathable fabric to prevent the dress from developing a musty smell.
Choosing the Right Hanger
The hanger you choose to store your sage green dress is also crucial. The right hanger should support the weight of the dress without stretching it or leaving creases on the fabric. Avoid using wire hangers, as they can leave marks on the fabric, and the dress can slip off the hanger.
The best hangers to use are wooden or padded hangers. Wooden hangers are sturdy and can support the weight of the dress without leaving creases on the fabric. Padded hangers are also an excellent choice, as they help prevent the dress from slipping off the hanger and provide additional support to the fabric.
Folding the Dress
If you don’t have enough space to hang your sage green dress, you can fold it. However, you need to fold the dress properly to avoid leaving creases on the fabric. The best way to fold a dress is to lay it flat, with the sleeves folded inwards, and the hemline and neckline aligned. Then, fold the dress in half, starting from the bottom of the dress to the top.
Once you’ve folded the dress, you can place it in a storage container, such as a plastic bin or a cardboard box. However, ensure the container is clean and dry before placing the dress inside. Also, avoid overstuffing the container, as it can cause the dress to wrinkle or stretch.
Adding Protection
To protect your sage green dress from insects and other elements that can damage the fabric, you can add some protection. The most common protection is mothballs, which are effective in repelling insects. However, mothballs have a strong odor, and some people may find the scent unpleasant.
Alternatively, you can use lavender sachets, which have a pleasant scent and are equally effective in repelling insects. You can make your lavender sachets by filling a small cloth bag with dried lavender flowers. Place the sachets in the storage container or hang them in the closet or wardrobe where you store the dress.
Checking on the Dress
Even when the dress is stored correctly, it’s essential to check on it periodically. This is especially important if you’re storing the dress for an extended period. Checking on the dress allows you to identify any issues, such as discoloration, staining, or insect infestation.
If you notice any issues, take the necessary steps to address them immediately. For instance, if you notice discoloration, you may need to wash the dress again using a color-safe detergent. If you notice stains, you can use a stain remover to remove them. If you notice insect infestation, you may need to use an insecticide to eliminate them.