Preserving a Christening Outfit for the Next Generation

A child's christening is a very important event for many families. It can be made all the more special when a christening dress or outfit is passed down from generation to generation. There's something very significant about dedicating your child to God in the very same outfit that you yourself (or a beloved family member) wore many years ago. However, preserving a christening outfit can be a little tricky. If you want your child to be able to pass on this tradition to his/her own children, then read on to learn more about making that possible.

Before we learn what to do, sometimes it's helpful to learn what NOT to do. Here are some common mistakes that people often make when they are trying to preserve clothing. First of all, clothing should be stored in a cool, dry place such as a cedar chest or closet. Hot places like the attic or damp places like the basement should be avoided.

Never use storage bags with metal zippers or clasps. These can corrode over time. Wire hangers should not be used as they can leave marks on the fabric. Vinyl or plastic bags do not allow the fabric to breathe and cause yellowing or fading to occur. They can also contain harmful chemicals that can damage the fabric permanently. Paper boxes and tissue paper should only be used if they are acid-free.

Now, here is what you should do in order to fully preserve your christening dress or outfit for future generations. First, make sure the gown is washed according to the instructions on the tag and fully dried. If it is to be hand-washed, be sure to use an enzymatic cleaner and fully rinse the outfit. Hang the outfit on a padded, cloth hanger with a vinyl-covered hook.

The best kind of storage bag to use is 100% unbleached muslin. This allows the fabric to breathe while still protecting it from dirt, dust, chemicals, and light. Instead of having zippers or snaps, this bag should have an overlapped closure using buttons so there is no chance of any corrosion.

There?s also the cost-effective aspect to carrying on this tradition. Christening outfits can be expensive and they are usually only worn once. They deserve to be passed on for future generations to enjoy. By ensuring that your child?s christening gown or outfit will be preserved for years to come, you could be starting a wonderful family tradition that will continue for generations.