We all know how expensive competition figure skating apparel are and we want to preserve their look and conditions. Often these fabrics contain ELASTAN OR SPANDEX that gives this competitive garment it's required stretch for movement. Below you will find a simple instruction guide and HELPFUL TIPS on how to care for our figure skating dresses.

Washing Instructions for FIGURE SKATING DRESSES WITHOUT SEQUINS, TRIM, OR SPARKLE VELVET ( for skating dress like the one below)

all the pictures above and below are from the coming collection from sixO that will be in arriving in our store from September thru December for the season 2008/09 .

For sensitive colors:

Figure Skating Apparel containing sensitive color (light or dark) require the following washing instructions in order to prevent bleeding. prior to washing and drying, turn the skatewear inside out. Machine wash separately in a large amount of cold water on gentle cycle. Remove immediately from washer. Tumble dry on low heat and remove from dryer. Do not bleach, or do not lay flat to dry.

All other figure skatewear:

Prior to washing and drying, turn figure skating dress inside out. Machine wash on gentle cycle, with lots of cold water ( mild liquid detergent is recommended). Tumble dry on low heat, avoid over drying, and remove from dryer immediatly. Do not bleach, nor lay flat to dry.

FOR FIGURE SKATING DRESSES WITH SPARKLE VELVET, BUT NO SEQUIN TRIM.

Please note:

Figure Skating dresses with metallic fabric as per the above picture may dull with repeated wear and washing. Due to the sensitive nature of these fabrics, these skating dresses require the following washing instructions.

Prior to washing, the turn the figure skating dresses inside out. machine wash separately in cold water using gentle cycle, or hand wash . Do not use bleach or harsh detergents. remove immediatly. Dry on low or no heat setting, and avoid over drying. Do not lay garments with sensitive colors flat to dry.

FOR GARMENTS WITH SEQUINS AND TRIM:

Figure skating dresses with sequins and trim are extremely sensitive by nature, and should be handled with extra care as should any delicate article of clothing. Spot washing: This is recommended for small stains. Rub gently with warm water and mild detergent, rinse thoroughly. And pat dry do not wring dry). Do not let water run to trimmed areas as sequins trim may bleed. Complete wash: if you wish to wash a sequin trimmed garment, it is recommended that you removed all the sequin trim before washing, and reapply after drying. Do not dry clean.

HELPFUL HINTS ON CARING FOR YOUR SKATING DRESS:

• dresses with light or sensitive colours should be handled with extra care. To avoid permanent staining of white or light colors, product such as SCOTCH GUARD can be used . Generally manufacturer do not recommend treating the whole skating dress, only those area that mey be difficult to keep clean. ( For example; panty, skirt, bias, edging, sleeves end, and collars) .
• Damp garments should be hung dry. Do not place damp garment in an athletic bag until completely dry. If the garments folded over onto itself and left for long period of time, colors may transfer.
• Steaming is the best way to bring your garment back to it's original look ( above a steaming kettle hanging the skating dress above...careful not to steam burn yourself!). The steam must be applied directly to the garment, working with the nap of the fabric. be sure that the garment is completely dry before storage or your dress.
• Avoid abrasive surfaces that may cause snagging and premature damage. If your garment fits too tightly, fiber breakage may occur. Be kind to your dresses, as you would to any other delicate article of clothing.

Thanks and I hope this information may help. Christine Deslauriers of Cheap Skates Etc