Whether prepping for a big recital, a gymnastics meet, or just gearing up for your weekly gymnastics or dance classes, your costume is part of your performance. At Tapio School of Dance & Gymnastics, we see many well-loved leotards, tutus, unitards, tights, and performance pieces, and how you take care of your gear matters. Good costume care doesn’t just keep things looking nice. It protects your investment, preserves the fit and flexibility of your attire, and ensures you feel confident every time you step onto the stage or mat.

In this blog, we’ll explore what every dancer and gymnast (and their parents) should know about keeping performance and practice wear in top shape.

1. Always Read the Label

It sounds obvious, but it’s surprising how often this step is skipped. Every piece of attire comes with a tag that outlines the manufacturer’s care recommendations. While many costumes are made from delicate fabrics like spandex, mesh, or tulle, some may require hand washing, while others are safe on a gentle machine cycle.

Stick to the instructions, especially when it says “do not tumble dry” or “hang to dry.” Heat can warp fabric, ruin elastic, and damage embellishments like sequins or rhinestones.

2. Hand Wash When in Doubt

When you’re not sure what to do, hand washing is almost always the safest bet, especially for performance costumes. Here’s how to do it:

• Fill a sink or basin with cool water.
• Add a small amount of mild detergent (something designed for delicates is best).
• Submerge the costume and gently swish it around. Let it soak for 10–15 minutes.
• Rinse thoroughly with cool water.
• Gently squeeze out excess water—never wring or twist.

Lay the costume flat on a towel and roll it up to absorb moisture. Then, lay it flat or hang it up to air dry away from direct sunlight.

3. Keep It Separated

Avoid mixing costumes with other clothing, especially items with zippers, hooks, or anything that might snag delicate fabrics. Even among dancewear, some fabrics and colors bleed or pill, so if you’re washing more than one item, sort by color and material.

4. Handle Tights and Leotards with Care

Tights and leotards are everyday staples for many of our students, and they take a lot of wear. To extend their life:

• Wash inside out to reduce friction.
• Use a mesh laundry bag for machine washing.
• Avoid fabric softeners, which can break down elastic fibers.
• Always air dry.

For tights specifically, trimming toenails and avoiding rough surfaces (like uncarpeted floors) can help prevent runs or holes.

5. Store Costumes Properly

After a long rehearsal or performance, it’s tempting to toss your costume in your dance bag and forget about it. However, that’s a fast track to wrinkles, odor, and fabric wear.

Instead, remember to:

• Hang costumes in garment bags to protect them from dust and damage.
• Use padded hangers for delicate or structured garments to preserve their shape.
• Keep items in a cool, dry place. Avoid attics, basements, or anywhere with humidity, which can encourage mildew.

For costumes with accessories or delicate elements (like feathers or sequins), keep tissue paper or small bags handy to separate and cushion them during storage or transport.

6. Emergency Fixes: Be Prepared

Every performer needs a small “emergency kit” in their dance or gym bag. We recommend including:

• Safety pins
• Clear nail polish (great for stopping runs in tights)
• A mini sewing kit
• Double-sided fashion tape
• Extra hair ties and bobby pins

Having these items on hand can save the day when you’re minutes from going onstage or about to start your routine.

7. Know When It’s Time to Retire an Outfit

As much as we love our favorite leotards or that costume from your first solo, there comes a time when performance wear needs to be replaced. Common Signs it’s time include stretched-out elastic, permanent stains, fabric thinning, or a poor fit. Wearing worn-out gear can affect your performance and even pose a safety risk, especially in gymnastics.

Learn More About Protecting Your Gear for Mount Pleasant Dance and Gymnastics from Tapio School of Dance and Gymnastics

At Tapio School of Dance & Gymnastics, we know how much effort goes into preparing for classes, performances, and competitions. Taking the time to care for your attire shows the same level of respect and dedication that you put into your training. With just a little attention and a few simple steps, your costumes and practice wear will stay beautiful, functional, and stage-ready for seasons to come.

Ready to shine in your next performance? It all starts with feeling your best, and that begins with clean, well-maintained gear. Reach out to learn more. We’re always happy to answer questions, whether they’re about costumes, dance, or gymnastics classes.