Holiday Laundry Hacks: How to Wash Halloween Costumes

Halloween parades, parties, and, of course, trick-or-treating can take a Halloween costume from brand-new to soiled and stained in just one night. While the typical costume could use a good cleaning, some materials may not survive a spin in the washer. We’ll detail how to wash Halloween costumes, masks, and wigs to both clean and preserve them for future fun.

How to Wash Halloween Costumes
Safely and Effectively

Many costumes consist of Lycra or latex or use embellishments like sequins or beads that make them realistic and easy to wear. But the very materials that make costumes, masks, and wigs so fun can spell disaster when they need to be cleaned. Here’s how to wash Halloween costumes and their components with the right methods and supplies to keep them looking their best.

How to Wash Halloween Costumes

Can you put Halloween costumes in the washer? It depends on the material. Check your costume’s label for its specific fabric content. While polyester, nylon, or acrylic costumes can be safely machine-washed, Lycra and costumes with beads, sequins, or tulle should be washed by hand. Here’s how to wash Halloween costumes in the washing machine as well as by hand-washing:

Machine-Washing:

1. Wash in cold or warm water on a regular or permanent press setting. Machine-washable costumes can be washed with other clothing and your regular detergent.
2. Use a small amount of gentle detergent if washing separately from other items.
3. Hang to air dry. Avoid the dryer, as excessive heat can damage the fabric.
4. If the costume was heavily soiled, clean your washer when the wash cycle ends to prevent clogs and odor.

Hand-Washing:

1. Fill a sink or basin with cold water.
2. Add a small amount of gentle detergent.
3. Turn the costume inside out and gently swish and knead it in the soapy water for 1 minute. 
4. Rinse the costume in cold, clear water. Avoid wringing the material to prevent stretching.
5. Turn the costume right side out and hang to air dry. 

How to Wash Masks

Many Halloween masks are made of latex, giving them a lifelike appearance and a more comfortable feel. However, perspiration and makeup can break down this material unless the mask is properly washed and stored. Follow these steps to wash Halloween mask and avoid damage:

1. Dampen a paper towel or clean cloth with a small amount of rubbing alcohol. Rub the inside of the mask with the cloth to remove perspiration or makeup stains.
2. Rinse the mask in warm, soapy water.
3. Allow to air dry completely before storing it in an airtight bag or the mask’s original packaging. Keep the mask out of direct sunlight to avoid fading and drying.

How to Wash Wigs

A wig can be a costume highlight, but after a night of Halloween fun, it may look and feel less than fresh. Wash Halloween wig quickly and easily with these simple steps that preserve its original appearance:

1. Fill a sink or basin with cold water, adding a small amount of mild shampoo.
2. Soak the wig in the water for 5 minutes.
3. After soaking, gently swirl the wig in the water, being careful not to rub the fibers together.
4. Rinse under cool, running water.
5. Shake off excess water and spread the wig on a towel or place on a wig stand to air dry. Avoid blow-drying synthetic wigs.
6. Once the wig is completely dry, gently brush and store in an airtight bag or original packaging.

Knowing how to wash Halloween costumes correctly can preserve their material and appearance for years of fun. From all of us at A-Tech Appliance Parts & Service, we wish you a happy and safe Halloween!