Care Guide for Maxi Dresses: How To Wash and Store

February 24, 2023

Maxi dresses are a popular fashion choice for their feminine and versatile style, perfect for any occasion from casual to formal. However, improper care and maintenance can cause them to lose their shape, color, or even shrink. To ensure that your maxi dress remains in excellent condition, it's important to know how to wash and store it properly. In this care guide, we will provide you with essential tips on how to care for your maxi dress, including the do's and don'ts of washing and storage, so you can enjoy wearing it for many years to come, while preserving its unique style and design.

WASH FREQUENCY

After 1-2 wears

STORAGE METHOD

Hang

The Right Way To Wash Maxi Dresses

Washing a Maxi Dress
Before washing your maxi dress, make sure to read the care label for any specific instructions. If the label permits machine washing, follow these steps:

  1. Sort your laundry by color and fabric type, and separate the maxi dress from clothes with zippers or hooks that can snag or damage the garment.
  2. Turn the dress inside out to minimize wear on the outside.
  3. Place the maxi dress in a mesh laundry bag to prevent stretching or tangling during the wash cycle. If you don't have a mesh bag, you can use a pillowcase instead.
  4. Choose a gentle cycle and use cold water to prevent shrinking or fading.
  5. Add a small amount of gentle detergent to the machine, following the package instructions for the load size and water temperature.
  6. Start the wash cycle and wait until it's finished.
  7. Remove the maxi dress from the machine and reshape it if necessary.
  8. Air dry the dress by laying it flat on a clean towel or hanging it on a clothesline. Avoid using a dryer as high heat can shrink or damage the fabric.
Handwashing a Maxi Dress
If the care label recommends handwashing or if you prefer to handwash your maxi dress, follow these steps:
  1. Fill a clean sink or basin with cool or lukewarm water and add a small amount of gentle detergent. Avoid using hot water as it can shrink or damage the fabric.
  2. Turn the maxi dress inside out and submerge it in the soapy water.
  3. Gently scrub the fabric with your hands, paying extra attention to stained or soiled areas. Avoid agitating or wringing the fabric too vigorously as it can stretch or damage the fibers.
  4. Drain the soapy water and rinse the maxi dress under cool running water until all the detergent is removed.
  5. Gently squeeze out the excess water, taking care not to wring or twist the fabric.
  6. Reshape the dress if necessary and lay it flat on a clean towel to air dry. Avoid using a dryer as high heat can shrink or damage the fabric.
Dry Cleaning a Maxi Dress
If the care label says "Dry Clean Only," take your maxi dress to a professional dry cleaner. Do not attempt to wash it at home as it may damage the fabric or color. Dry cleaning uses special chemicals and equipment to safely clean delicate fabrics without water, making it the best option for certain types of maxi dresses.

How Often To Wash Maxi Dresses

Maxi dresses should be washed after 1-2 wears. The frequency of washing will depend on how often the dress is worn and how much it is exposed to sweat and dirt. If the dress is made of delicate fabric or has embellishments, it may require special care when washing.

The Right Way To Store Maxi Dresses

How to Hang Maxi Dresses

  1. Choose a sturdy hanger with wide shoulders to support the weight of the dress.
  2. Hang the dress from the straps or loops to avoid stretching the neckline or bodice.
  3. Smooth out any wrinkles or creases.

Expert Advice for Maintaining The Quality Of Your Maxi Dresses

To keep maxi dresses in top shape, it's important to follow the care label instructions carefully. Additionally, there are some practical tips that can help extend the life of your dress. For example, when hanging the dress, use a sturdy hanger with wide shoulders to support the weight of the garment. Hang the dress from the straps or loops to avoid stretching the neckline or bodice, and smooth out any wrinkles or creases. When washing the dress, avoid washing it with heavy or abrasive materials that can cause pilling or damage to the fabric. Instead, wash the dress with similar materials to reduce friction and protect the fabric. Additionally, investing in mesh laundry bags or a proper drying rack can help reduce wear and tear during the washing and drying process, especially for delicate fabrics. Finally, skip the dryer whenever possible and air dry the dress to prevent shrinkage or damage to the fabric.

DISCLAIMER

Just a friendly reminder that this care guide for maxi dresses only provides general advice. Your maxi dresses may have specific care requirements based on its material, style, and manufacturer instructions, so always check the care label before washing or storing it. If you're unsure about anything, it's always best to consult a professional cleaner. Please note that the author of this guide is not responsible for any damages or losses resulting from the use or misuse of any information from this blog.

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