Sequin and beaded dress cleaning in Tomball, TX

Why beaded and sequined garments need careful cleaning

The decoration is usually more fragile than the fabric under it. Sewn sequins and beads hang on thread, and when one thread breaks, a whole row can slide off. Glued embellishments are held by adhesive that can soften with heat or certain solvents, and some loosen with water too. Many sequins are plastic with a thin coating, and that coating can cloud, peel or lose its shine. Some beads are painted or dyed and may bleed onto the fabric. The weight of heavy beading pulls on the garment, so it stretches at the shoulders when hung. A home washer tumbles everything together and snags threads, and a dryer can warp sequins.

Reading the care label

Many beaded and sequined pieces say dry clean only, while some cheaper ones say hand wash cold or spot clean only. Spot clean only means the maker does not expect the trim to survive full cleaning in water or solvent, so read it as a real warning. Some labels say do not dry clean, which usually points to trim that reacts to solvent. A missing label is common on these garments, so ask at the counter.

Before you bring them in

• Tell us if you know whether the trim is sewn on or glued on.
• Gather any loose beads or sequins that have fallen off and bring them in a small bag.
• Point out bare patches and loose rows so they are not missed.
• Mention perfume, hairspray or body lotion on the trim, since these can dull it.
• Carry it folded flat across your arm rather than hanging from a thin hanger.

Care between cleanings

• Store heavy beaded pieces folded flat with tissue between layers instead of on a hanger.
• Put on perfume and hairspray before you dress, and let them dry first.
• Keep sequined garments away from rough fabrics and velcro that catch on the trim.
• Turn the garment inside out when you steam it, and never press the trim with an iron.
• Clean only when it is actually soiled, since every cleaning puts some stress on the threads.