Preservation Kit FAQ
Q: How long does the preservation process take?
A: From the day we receive your gown at our Freehold, NJ facility, the process typically takes four to six weeks. You will receive tracking information when your preserved gown ships back to you. For rush orders, call us at (866) 308-8822 to discuss options.
Q: Do I need to do anything to my dress before sending it?
A: No special preparation is needed. Do not attempt to spot-clean or treat stains yourself — this can set stains deeper into the fabric or damage delicate materials. Simply pack your gown according to the instructions included in your kit and send it as-is.
Q: What types of stains can you remove?
A: Our SYSTEMK4 process addresses most stain types, including makeup, wine, food, grass, perspiration, and invisible sugar stains from champagne or juice. Invisible sugar stains are particularly important to remove — they are undetectable when fresh but oxidize into yellow or brown spots over time if left untreated.
Q: Is my gown insured during shipping?
A: Yes. Your gown is insured during both outbound and return transit. The prepaid label included in your kit covers your gown in both directions. Additional insurance can be arranged for exceptionally high-value gowns — call us to discuss.
Q: What does the 100-Year Guarantee actually cover?
A: Our guarantee covers yellowing and discoloration of the fabric for 100 years from the preservation date, provided the gown remains properly stored in the sealed preservation chest we return it in. If your gown yellows while properly stored, we will re-clean it at no charge.
Q: Can you preserve vintage or heirloom gowns?
A: Yes. We regularly preserve vintage gowns from the 1920s through the 1990s. Older fabrics require extra care, and our specialists are trained to handle fragile textiles, aged silk, and antique lace. Let us know the approximate age of the gown when you contact us, and we will advise on what to expect.
Q: What happens if my dress has beading, sequins, or embroidery?
A: Embellished gowns are treated with additional care. Beading, sequins, and embroidered areas are identified during inspection and cleaned by hand where machine processes could cause damage. There is no additional charge for embellishments.
Q: Should I open the preservation chest to check on my dress?
A: We recommend keeping the preservation chest sealed. Opening it exposes the gown to air and humidity, which accelerates the oxidation process and can lead to yellowing over time. If you want to confirm the gown is inside, the weight and the seal are your indicators. Trust the process — the chest is designed to protect your gown for generations.
Q: What size gowns can you preserve?
A: We preserve gowns of all sizes, from petite to plus. Our shipping box is sized generously to accommodate even the most voluminous ball gowns and extended trains. If you have an unusually large gown, call us ahead of time and we will advise on packing.
Q: Can I preserve a dress that was cleaned at another dry cleaner?
A: Yes, though results may vary. If a prior cleaning used harsh solvents or failed to remove certain stains, those issues may already be set into the fabric. We will do our best and communicate clearly about what is achievable. We recommend contacting us before sending if you know the dress has been previously cleaned elsewhere.