How to Wash Your Halloween Costume Without a Horror Story

Stone Drive Coin Laundry
Oct 9
2 min read

Halloween is all about fun, creativity, and sometimes a little chaos—but your Halloween costume doesn’t have to suffer! From delicate fabrics to sequins, synthetic materials, and embellished outfits, proper care is key to making sure your spooky outfit survives the night—and maybe even lasts for next year. Here’s your guide to washing Halloween costumes, with tips from Stone Drive Coin Laundry to make your holiday laundry stress-free.

1. Check the Care Label First

Halloween costumes come in a variety of fabrics, from polyester and spandex to velvet or satin. Always check the laundry care instructions before washing.

Hand wash only: Many delicate Halloween costumes fall into this category.
Machine washable: Use a gentle cycle and cold water to protect synthetic fabrics. At Stone Drive Coin Laundry, we have large, commercial washers perfect for gently cleaning delicate or bulky costumes without risk of damage.

2. Protect Sequins, Glitter, and Embellishments

Sequins, beads, and other decorations can easily snag or fall off in the wash.

Use a mesh laundry bag: Protect delicate costumes in the washing machine.
Spot clean when possible: For small stains, a damp cloth with mild detergent works well.
Air dry: Avoid the dryer—it can melt sequins or warp synthetic materials. Our high-capacity dryers at Stone Drive Coin Laundry make air-drying bulky costumes easier—just lay flat or hang in a safe spot after washing.

3. Treat Stains Immediately

Halloween brings candy stains, makeup stains, and even fake blood, all of which can ruin your costume.

Blot, don’t rub: Rubbing spreads stains and can damage delicate fabrics.
Cold water rinse: Prevents setting stains in synthetic costumes.
Gentle stain remover: Use one safe for Halloween costume fabrics. Need a little extra space or a machine that can handle bigger costumes? Stone Drive Coin Laundry has plenty of washers ready for all sizes and fabrics.

4. Wash Costumes Separately

Avoid washing your Halloween costume with everyday clothes to prevent color bleeding or damage from zippers, Velcro, or other rough fabrics.

5. Dry Properly

Flat drying: For stretchy or embellished Halloween outfits, lay flat to maintain shape.
Hanging: Lightweight costumes can be hung on a padded hanger, but avoid wire hangers that may distort delicate fabrics. Our dryers at Stone Drive Coin Laundry are perfect for larger items like capes, cloaks, or other costume pieces that don’t fit in standard home machines.

6. Storage Tips for Next Year

Clean before storing: Dirt or stains left on Halloween costumes can set over time.
Use garment bags: Protect delicate Halloween outfits from dust and pests.
Store flat if possible: Keeps delicate embellishments intact.

By following these tips and taking advantage of the state-of-the-art washers and dryers at Stone Drive Coin Laundry, your Halloween costume can survive the night—and maybe even be worn again next year. Don’t let laundry turn your spooky fun into a horror story! Visit us at Stone Drive Coin Laundry at 1700 Pinebrook Dr., Suite 2, Kingsport, TN 37660.