Cleaning your wedding dress after the big day is more than a routine chore—it’s an investment in preserving one of the most memorable items you’ll ever wear. Whether you plan to store it as a keepsake, pass it down, or resell it, understanding the wedding dress dry cleaning cost is essential.
In 2025, the average cost to dry clean a wedding dress ranges from $150 to $350. If you’re adding preservation (boxing and storage), expect the total to go up to $500 or more.
Let’s break down everything you need to know—from pricing factors to long-term storage tips.
How Much Does It Cost to Dry Clean a Wedding Dress?
The cost can vary depending on several key factors:
| Service Type | Average Price (USD) |
|---|---|
| Basic Dry Cleaning | $150 – $350 |
| Dry Cleaning + Boxing | $250 – $500+ |
| Heavy Stain Removal | +$50 – $100 extra |
| Premium Preservation Box | $75 – $150 extra |
What Affects the Price?
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Fabric Type: Delicate materials like silk, lace, satin, or tulle need specialized care.
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Beading & Embellishments: Intricate detailing requires hand-cleaning and extra protection.
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Stain Severity: The more visible or set-in the stains (like red wine or dirt), the higher the cleaning cost.
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Dress Length & Layers: Ball gowns with multiple layers take more time and resources.
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Preservation Choices: Archival-quality boxes and acid-free tissue paper increase the final cost.
Is It Worth It to Dry Clean a Wedding Dress?
Absolutely—especially if:
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You want to preserve the dress as a memory or family heirloom.
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You’re planning to resell or donate the gown.
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Your dress has noticeable stains or makeup marks that could set over time.
Dry cleaning not only keeps your dress looking fresh but also prevents discoloration, mold, and fabric breakdown.
Why Is Dry Cleaning a Wedding Dress So Expensive?
Unlike regular clothes, wedding dresses:
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Have multiple layers of delicate fabric
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Often contain hand-sewn beading or embroidery
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Require manual spot treatment
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Must be handled by specialists, not just general dry cleaners
This level of care and attention is what raises the price. Some gowns can even take 8 to 12 hours to clean properly.
How Much to Get a Wedding Dress Dry Cleaned and Boxed?
If you’re opting for cleaning + boxing, expect to pay between $250 and $500 depending on the size of the dress and the quality of the preservation box. These boxes are usually acid-free, museum-grade, and protect the dress from light, air, and moisture.
When and How Should You Preserve Your Wedding Dress?
How Soon Should You Preserve It?
The best time to clean and preserve your dress is within 24 to 72 hours after the wedding. This helps prevent permanent stains from setting.
Tips for Preservation:
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Don’t wait too long. The longer you delay, the harder it is to treat stains.
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Avoid plastic bags or regular hangers. They trap moisture and can discolor fabric.
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Store in a cool, dark, dry place. Keep it away from humidity, sunlight, or temperature fluctuations.
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Use archival tissue paper and an acid-free preservation box.
Cleaning vs. Preservation: What’s the Difference?
| Feature | Dry Cleaning Only | Cleaning + Preservation |
|---|---|---|
| Stain Removal | ✅ | ✅ |
| Professional Pressing | ✅ | ✅ |
| Long-Term Storage | ❌ | ✅ (with archival box) |
| Yellowing Protection | ❌ | ✅ |
| Ready for Resale | ✅ | ✅ |
If you just want to freshen up your dress for resale or short-term storage, dry cleaning may be enough. But for long-term care, preservation is a smart investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to dry clean a wedding dress?
Expect to pay $150 to $350, depending on fabric type, stains, and design complexity.
Is it worth it to dry clean a wedding dress?
Yes—especially if your dress has visible stains, intricate details, or sentimental value. It ensures your gown stays beautiful for years.
Why is wedding dress dry cleaning so expensive?
Wedding dresses require delicate, manual cleaning. Hand-beading, lace, or custom fabric increases the time and care needed.
How much does it cost to get a wedding dress cleaned and boxed?
$250 to $500 for cleaning plus preservation packaging in an archival box.
Is it worth it to preserve a wedding dress?
Yes, if you want to store your dress long-term, pass it down, or maintain its value.
How much does wedding dress preservation cost?
Preservation services typically cost $250 to $500, including dry cleaning and special storage materials.
How best to preserve a wedding dress?
Clean it ASAP after the event, store it in a museum-quality box, and keep it in a cool, dark place.
How soon do you need to preserve your dress?
Within 72 hours after the wedding is ideal, especially if the dress has sweat, makeup, or dirt stains.
Final Thoughts
Your wedding dress is a symbol of one of life’s most cherished memories. Whether it’s a minimal silhouette or a dramatic ball gown, proper dry cleaning and preservation ensure it stays beautiful for years to come.
Taking action soon after the ceremony not only protects the fabric but also maintains the emotional and financial value of your gown.
