How to Preserve Heirloom Baptism Gowns

Are you saving a baptismal gown for a future family member to wear? Here’s how to keep it in tiptop shape.

1. Inspect and clean before storing

Always clean garments before storing and, with clean or cotton-gloved hands, examine regularly for traces of pests, mold and mildew.

2. Store with care using proper storage supplies

Store the gown in a large acid-free box lined with archival tissue paper or clean white cotton sheeting. To help prevent creases and folds, generously pad the garment with acid-free tissue. Lightly stuff sleeves and any areas where folds might occur.

3. Place individual pieces in separate boxes

Store boxes in a cool, dry room with good air circulation. The ideal climate for storing textiles is 65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit with 50 to 55 percent humidity (which also is about the level recommended for homes). An interior closet in your home’s living area is a good location.

4. Hang a long gown on a well-padded hanger

You can DIY one, suggests Smithsonian museum curator Don Johnson, by wrapping polyester batting around a wooden hanger. When you have about 2 inches of padding, cover the entire hanger with a muslin sleeve. 

5. Cover the hanging garment with a zipped cotton or linen garment bag.

Don’t use plastic—off-gassing from the plastic can cause yellowing. 

6. Resist the temptation to put garments on long-term display.

Light and heat will cause fabric to deteriorate more quickly.

Family History Q&A: How to Preserve a Baptism Gown

Q: How do I care for an heirloom satin baptismal gown? It’s embroidered and trimmed in lace. I’d love for my grandson to wear it for his baptism.

A: Lucky baby to wear such a precious christening gown! First, examine it. Wash your hands and remove rings, or wear white cotton gloves. Spread the gown over a cotton sheet and look for stains, tears and loose beads. If it appears in good condition, it may be ready for your grandson after a thorough airing. Hang the gown on a padded hanger for a few days, away from light, and heating or air conditioning vents.

If the gown needs cleaning and the fabric is strong enough, take it to a dry cleaner experienced in working with antique clothing. Seek help from a textile conservator for any tears or old stains, especially if they’ve gone through to the back of the fabric.

Although the gown may be too big or too small for your grandson, it’s best to avoid altering it. Fortunately, most gowns are made with an opening in the back. You can slip the gown over the baby just before the ceremony and leave it on long enough for photos. No one will notice the gap or extra fabric in the back.

Afterward, look for new stains or spots of dried moisture to show the dry cleaner. Oils from hands and ceremonial substances can permanently soil fabric, so have the gown cleaned before storing. Consult your dry cleaner if in doubt.

A version of this article appeared in the May/June 2014 issue of Family Tree Magazine.

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