Steamers & Steaming
There are a lot of different steamers out there, but my FAVORITE hands down is this model-
Black and Decker Handheld Steamer
Your wedding dress is a stunning reflection of you—your personality, your love story, your style. Whether you’re doing a final touch-up before walking down the aisle or steaming it after travel, here’s how to handle your dress with care, confidence, and calm.
No stress here—just you, your gown, and a little steam magic.
First, Let’s Talk Tools
You don’t need fancy gear—just the right one:
Use a handheld or upright steamer (not an iron!).
Amazon.com: BLACK+DECKER HGS200 Advanced Handheld Steamer, Gray/Blue: Home & Kitchen
I love this model for a few different reasons-
The steamer is small and travels really well. You can throw it in your checked luggage.
It doesn’t spit lava hot water at you. Even industrial steamers I’ve used have a tendency to spit- which can permanently stain silks and satins with water marks.
It heats up really fast so you aren’t waiting around if you’re in a time crunch.
Featuring a ‘locking’ mechanism on the handle so that your hand doesn’t have to work as hard while you’re steaming.
The metal plate on the front of the steamer can act as an iron for more stubborn wrinkles.
Distilled water is best to avoid any mineral spots.
A clean white towel or cloth for testing.
A hanger and space to work safely (a shower rod, four post bed, or doorframe works great).
Set the Stage
Hang your dress up high where it can fully drape—train and all. Feel free to use the back of a chair to help keep the train off the ground.
Make sure the area is clean and free of anything that might snag the fabric.
Steam Like a Queen
Take a deep breath. You’re not going to hurt the dress. You’re just giving it the love it deserves.
Start from the bottom: Begin at the inner most layers- this helps to ‘poof’ up dresses with crinoline or tulle layers. If you see pleats in these layers, gently open them up while you steam them.
Keep a little distance: Hold the steamer about 6 inches away. Let the steam gently relax the fabric. You don’t need to press—just let it hover.
Go slow and steady: Don’t rush. Let the steam do its thing. Feel free to steam from under the skirt, pulling the iron away from the bodice- like you’re straightening your hair with only one side of the hair iron.
Pay attention to layers: If your dress has multiple layers (like tulle or organza), lift one at a time and steam each gently.
Handle embellishments with care: Avoid direct contact with lace, beading, or appliqués. Steam around them.
Things to Avoid
Don’t get the dress wet. If you see water droplets forming, pull back a bit.
Don’t iron. Ever.
Don’t steam while wearing the dress—it needs to hang freely, and you don’t want to risk burning yourself for your wedding photos.
Don’t panic if it’s not perfect—most minor wrinkles relax beautifully with time and motion. Some fabrics, like linen, silk, and especially satin gowns tend to wrinkle with wear- it’s part of the charm of the fabric.
Pro Tips
Test steam a hidden spot first to make sure your steamer plays nicely with your fabric.
Steaming the day before? Store the dress somewhere safe, cool, and dry—away from pets, curious hands, and food.
Need help? Grab your maid of honor or a trusted friend. You’re allowed to ask for help—you’re the bride! Folks want an opportunity to be there for you on your big day.
Empowered and Elegant
Remember: this is your dress and your day. You don’t need to be perfect—you just need to feel beautiful and confident. A wrinkle-free dress is just the cherry on top. Your wedding day is about so much more than how gorgeous you’re going to look in what you’re wearing.
So take your time, sip some water, smile, and know this:
You’re not just preparing a gown—you’re preparing for a moment that’s all yours.
You’ve got this.