Unitard

• Cleaning: The more you wear your costume, the better the chance of it being stained with food, water, or sweat.  The best way to wash it is by hand with slightly soapy water and let it hang dry.  Because of the delicacy of the costume, it may endure a dry cleaning well.  Never, ever use bleach.  Use a mild, natural detergent if necessary. Some costumers use a product called Synthrapol can be used during the first wash of fabric to remove any invisible dirt, oil, and chemicals that may cause uneven coloring when dying or painting. It can also be used in an afterwash to prevent loose color particles from re-settling onto the fabric in unwanted areas.  When washing your unitard alone, use approximately 1/8 cup.

• Storage: Ideally you unitard should be hung on a hanger and stored in a protective plastic bag, though I can be folded and stored in a box.

Undergarment

• Cleaning: Your undergarment will most likely come with cleaning instructions.  For items made of mesh or other delicate fabric, hand-washing and air drying is the safest method.  If you are using a store-bought bra and underwear, washing it as you would normally do should be fine.

• Storage: If your undergarment is a leotard or stocking, store it on a hanger in a protective bag, or fold it and store in a box.  Bra/underwear can be stored the same way.

Wig

• Cleaning: If your collar becomes dirty, use a dry cloth to brush away any residue, then go over the area with a comb and brush out any soiling. 

• Storage: To keep the wig's shape, store it on a wig head in a box.  I use plastic grocery bags and styrofoam peanuts to cushion it.

Collar

• Cleaning: If your collar becomes dirty, use a damp cloth to clean away any residue.  If it is strained beyond repair, consider making a new collar, or painting over the strained area.

• Storage: You can store your collar either on your wig head with your wig, or in a box.

Warmers/Gloves

• Cleaning: For minor stains, use a damp cloth and gently dab the area.  If the stains are deeper, hand wash the item and let it air dry.  Do no use bleach or other harsh chemicals.

• Storage: Store your warmers or glove in a box.

Tail

• Cleaning: Use a dry cloth to brush off any dirt or residue; if the stains go deeper, hand wash the tail and let it air dry.  If the stains are permanent, consider replacing the soiled sections of the tail with new yarn (or alternate materials).

• Storage: Store your tail in a box.

Shoes

• Cleaning: Since your shoes will most likely be painted, use care when cleaning.  A damp cloth may remove stains, but if not, consider painting over the soiled area.

• Storage: Store your shoes in a box.