Halloween is a great time to make your kid’s dream of becoming a pirate, astronaut, zombie or even Peter Pan a reality by dressing up as such. However, once the costume party is done, it’s time to move back to the real world and put his Peter Pan attire in storage.

Depending on proper caring and storing procedure, your kid’s Peter Pan costume may be used for a few more Halloween costume parties, or even for some school or community activities that require him to be dressed up as a the famous fairy tale and cartoon character. That is why, to prolong the life of the Peter Pan costume and save money, the following are some helpful tips in storing the Peter Pan costume.

Before storing up the Peter Pan costume, make sure you wash it first. While your kid may not have soiled the Peter Pan costume with food stains during treat or treating or at the Halloween party, it is important to remove any particle that has settled into the costume’s fabric.

For instance, sweat and cologne will become nasty stains eventually if not removed before storage. In addition, wash the Peter Pan costume according to instructions. Depending on where they are purchased, different Peter Pan costumes are fabricated from different materials that need dissimilar washing care. Make sure you read instructions on how to properly wash the costume prior to laundering, so as not to speed up deterioration of the materials used.

If you’re intending to store the green frock of the Peter Pan costume hanging, make sure you use only a wooden, plastic or padded hanger. A metal hanger without padding may only leave rust on the Peter Pan costume. While you’re at it, remove anything in the pockets, if there are any, to prevent weighing down the green frock while hanging. The tights may be stored folded or hung, again with wooden, plastic or padded hanger. If the Peter Pan costume comes complete with felt shoes or boots, pack them with crumpled paper before storing. This is important to retain their shapes, as well as preventing bugs or mice from accidentally getting inside them and leave them damaged.

When storing the Peter Pan costume folded, make sure nothing heavy is piled on top of them. In the long run, they will become misshapen. When stacking garments folded, remember to put heavier ones underneath and place lighter ones on top of the pile. And never put folded Peter Pan costume parts in plastic bags as such bags trap in moisture and eventually damage the fabric. Instead, use breathable fabric bags that will ensure the Peter Pan costume can breathe while being stored.

If possible, have a closet or cabinet designated for seasonal clothing such as your kid’s costumes, and place this closet or cabinet where it’s dry, cool and clean. Never stash your kid’s Peter Pan costume in the humid or musty attic or basement – the costume will absorb the smell, as well as attract a few insects to feed on the fabric.

When you know how to properly store the Peter Pan costume, you are guaranteed that your kid will enjoy showing up as the charming Peter Pan for many Halloween parties to come.