As a new dance parent, you’re probably discovering how important it is to take care of your little one’s dance gear! From leotards to ballet slippers, these essentials need some TLC to last throughout the season. Here are some simple tips to help you maintain your child's dancewear and keep everything organized, too!
1. Gentle Wash to Keep Fabrics Soft: Your child’s dance outfits, especially leotards and tights, are made of delicate fabrics that benefit from gentle washing. Use cold water and a mild detergent to gently clean them. This helps the clothes last longer and stay stretchy, so your child will feel comfortable in class. Avoid washing with towels, jeans, other tough fabrics.
2. Air-Dry Dance Clothes: Instead of using the dryer, air-dry your child’s dancewear to avoid shrinking and keep the fabric in great shape. Use your air dry cycle, lay them flat or hang them on a drying rack. It will help the clothes hold their color and elasticity.
3. Wipe Down Dance Shoes: Ballet and jazz shoes can get marked up from tap shoe dust at the studio, but they don’t need a full wash. Just wipe them down with a damp cloth to keep them looking fresh.
4. Create a ‘Dance Station’ at Home: To keep everything organized and ready for class, set up a designated ‘dance station’ at home. Choose a special spot by the door to store their dance bag, shoes, and any accessories. Pack and double check their bag together the night before, so you aren’t rushing to gather items before class!
5. Keep a Small Bag of Hair Supplies in Your Dance Bag: We all know how a day can go from smooth to hectic! Keep a small bag with hair supplies (hairpins, ties, brush, headband etc...) in your child’s dance bag. This way, you can easily do their hair on the go, even if you forgot to put their hair up before leaving for class or need to style it in the car.
6. Label Everything! Dancers often misplace things, so label their clothes, shoes, and even hair supplies with their name. This helps you (and their teacher) keep track of everything, especially in a busy studio environment.
By following these tips, you'll make your child’s dance gear last longer while keeping their dance bag a little more organized!
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