You’ve put so much thought and heart into your choosing your dream wedding gown. So, keeping it in pristine condition on your big day is a top priority.. No matter how careful you think you will be, it is better to be safe than sorry in case of a dreaded wedding gown mishap. Stains from makeup, wine, food, dirt, blood and grass are among the most common culprits. And let’s not forget how easily a wedding gown can rip!

Keep in mind that the sooner you notice a stain and treat it, the easier it is to erase! We happen to love these five must-have.hacks to have on hand in case of emergency, whether it be a stain, snag or rip.

1. Chalk: Chalk is perfect for those super tiny spots. The great thing about chalk is that it comes in different shades of white, off white and even pinks, so you can look at different colors to match your wedding gown. Chalk is truly a quick fix for any fabric. Never apply chalk to bigger stains.

2. Baby powder: Baby powder works just like chalk, except it can be used more liberally on slightly bigger areas without having to rub the fabric. Baby powder and chalk are excellent for food and grease spots.

3. Rubbing alcohol: Rubbing alcohol is great for small stains or smudges. Simply apply it sparingly with a q-tip until the spot or smudge is gone. It will dry quickly, or you can use a hairdryer to help it along. Once it is dry, cover the area with your handy dandy chalk or baby powder and you are good to go! Do not use alcohol on larger stains, such as a wine or food spill.

4. Baby wipes: Baby wipes can be a lifesaver when it comes to wedding gown mishaps. They can be used for more significant stains such as beverages, food, and even dirt. The key to using them to NEVER rub the affected area/fabric. If you rub, you will make the stain worse. Blotting is key. Lightly blot the area until the stained area is gone. Don’t try to dry the area with another towel. Use a hairdryer for best results, but remember to keep it on low heat. Avoid baby wipes on silk.

5. Sewing Kit: A sewing kit is a must. You never know when your dress may get snagged on someone or something. If you know how to sew, a small tear can be easily resolved. Don’t attempt to fix your dress if you don’t know how to handle a thread and needle. Make sure someone in your bridal party can perform the task in case of this emergency.

IMPORTANT: Please remember, the goal is to safely remove the stain without damaging the garment. If you are in doubt or the tear or stain is significant, save the removal or repair for a professional.