Costume Care & Transport Tips for Dance Competitions

At Addiction Dance Company, we know that a well-maintained costume can make all the difference in your performance. Whether you’re preparing for a solo, duet, or team number, keeping costumes clean, organized, and wrinkle-free ensures that you look as polished as you feel. Dance competitions often involve quick changes and travel, so taking extra care with your costumes before, during, and after the event helps protect your investment and keeps you stage-ready at all times.

Prepping Costumes Before Competition

Proper preparation starts long before competition weekend. Make sure each costume is checked for cleanliness, repairs, and fit ahead of time. Planning early prevents last-minute stress and gives you time to handle any adjustments before you hit the stage.

Inspect each costume for loose threads, missing rhinestones, or damage
Ensure costumes are clean and properly fitted
Steam or press costumes in advance to remove wrinkles

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Packing Your Costumes Safely

How you pack your costumes can make or break how they look when you arrive. Using garment bags and organized labeling helps protect each outfit and simplifies quick changes. Pack costumes in the order you’ll need them to make transitions easier throughout the competition.

Use garment bags to keep costumes protected and wrinkle-free
Label each bag with the dancer’s name, routine, and accessories
Pack costumes in performance order for easy access

Managing Accessories and Shoes

Accessories and shoes are easy to overlook but are just as important as the costume itself. Organizing these items ensures that nothing goes missing in the hustle of competition day. A small accessories kit can be a lifesaver for last-minute adjustments or replacements.

Store jewelry, hairpieces, and tights in labeled pouches
Keep all shoes together in a separate section of your bag
Pack extra accessories and essentials, just in case

On-the-Go Costume Care

When traveling to competitions, costumes can easily wrinkle or become disorganized. Simple tools like portable steamers or wrinkle-release spray can refresh costumes quickly. Hanging costumes as soon as you arrive prevents creasing and saves valuable prep time before performances.

Bring a portable steamer or wrinkle spray for touch-ups
Hang costumes immediately upon arrival at the venue
Keep a lint roller and sewing kit handy for emergencies

Post-Competition Maintenance

After the competition, proper cleaning and storage help extend the life of your costumes. Taking time to wash, air out, and store them correctly ensures they’re ready for the next event or performance.

Clean or dry-clean costumes according to fabric care instructions
Air out costumes before storage to prevent odor or mildew
Store in garment bags in a cool, dry place

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At Addiction Dance Company, we remind our dancers that costume care is part of performing like a professional. A clean, well-maintained, and organized costume reflects your dedication and pride in your craft. By preparing ahead, packing smart, and caring for your costumes after each event, you’ll be ready to take the stage looking your absolute best every time.