Inside a mascot costume, it’s a stuffy and sweaty existence for performers. Naturally, therefore, costumes must be cleaned thoroughly between uses.
Most costumes are designed to be machine washed on a cold, gentle wash with a small amount of detergent. To prevent ripping the fabric, it is worth avoiding machines with agitators. However, not all construction materials can be submerged in water. For example, heads made out of Papier-mâché or fibreglass will disintegrate. Therefore, it is worth contacting the costume provider if you need additional guidance.
To keep the head’s shape intact, handwashing is recommended. For best results, spot and wipe stained areas after every use using a spray with diluted detergent. Ensure inside the neck and mouth are sprayed effectively, as that’s where odour smells linger the most. Be advised that rinsing away the detergent with a shower head will take longer to dry out.
Drying
Drying a mascot costume is essential to keep it looking fresh and smelling clean.
The best way to dry a costume is to hang it up with a fan or a carpet dryer directed at it. Attempting to use a tumble dryer to save time could prove costly. Most costumes are designed with synthetic fur, which may damage when heated.
To avoid the head smelling or turning mouldy, potentially affecting the performer’s health, air dry it thoroughly on a stand where there is a cool breeze or draft.
Maintenance
Properly caring for a costume is crucial, as no one wants to see a tired-looking mascot at a promotional event.
To efficiently maintain a mascot costume, create a checklist of all its components. This can help identify any malfunctions before any issues become problematic.
One example of extending a mascot’s life is maintaining its fur. Brushing it regularly; fluffing it up with a soft brush will prevent it from getting matted.
Repairs
Over time, mascot costumes will tire and experience wardrobe malfunctions, causing a performer embarrassment. As a result, repairs will eventually have to be made.
With the correct toolkit, simple repairs of a seam split and worn-out pieces of Velcro can be fixed by an amateur. However, complex repairs such as foam tears, torn or frayed fur, damage to the eyes and broken zippers should be left to professional repairers of mascot costumes for better and long-lasting results.
Storing
To keep a mascot costume looking its best and smelling fresh, it must be stored in the correct environment. Specialist mascot costume makers recommend keeping costumes covered and hung up in a warm, clean, and spacious area so they can air out and dry completely between uses.
Garages and attics are usually unsuitable because their cold, damp conditions can cause mould to grow on the costume’s fabric, leading to stains and lingering unpleasant odours. If there is little space at home or in the office to keep the mascot costume safe from deterioration, self‑storage units can be an affordable solution.
Some storage facilities offer a variety of unit sizes, including climate‑controlled options that help prevent environmental damage to the costume. They are also equipped with twenty‑four‑hour CCTV surveillance and personal locks, keeping the outfit safe and protected between uses.
Liz Johnson is the owner and lead designer of Promotional Props and Costumes, a Nottingham-based company specialising in creating bespoke props and costumes for marketing, advertising, and promotions. With a particular flair for puppetry and walkabout costumes, Liz has been bringing her designs to life since 2000.
Liz studied Theatre Design, Puppetry and Prop Costuming at Nottingham Trent University. After honing her craft at a puppetry company post-graduation, she embarked on her entrepreneurial venture, bringing her unique vision to life.
Today, Promotional Props and Costumes are at the forefront of creating mascot costumes, puppets, and one-off props for stage, television, and the advertising industry. Liz’s expertise extends beyond her business; she shares her knowledge as a sessional lecturer in Costume Design and Making at Nottingham Trent University, inspiring the next generation of creative professionals.
