Cleaning and storing your Dirndl: what matters

At Gössl we recommend entrusting your Dirndl to professional cleaning wherever possible. Different fabrics, the inner construction of the bodice (Leib) and fine handwork call for treatment matched to them. The care instructions of the respective model are always decisive.

Dirndl, apron and blouse should be considered individually: they may consist of different weaves and require different care procedures. Between cleanings, careful airing and suitable storage help to preserve your Gwand.

Should a Dirndl be washed or professionally cleaned?

A Dirndl consists of more than its visible outer fabric. Lining, interlinings, fastenings and trimmings must also be taken into account in its care. At Gössl there is in addition the shaping construction with a boned corset.

Our recommendation is therefore professional cleaning. There it can be judged, on the basis of the care label and the construction, which procedure is suitable for your model.

No washing recommendation can be derived from the fibre composition alone. Even a Dirndl of pure cotton is not automatically suitable for the washing machine.

What does the care label in the Dirndl tell you?

The care label specifies which treatment is intended for the respective model. It contains instructions on washing, bleaching, drying, ironing and professional textile care.

Leave the label in the Gwand if possible, so that this information remains available later on. General tips cannot replace the model-specific instructions.

If the label is no longer legible or has been removed, please contact a Gössl store before cleaning. The article number can help to identify the model.

Do Dirndl, apron and blouse have to be cleaned separately?

Dirndl, apron and blouse each require their own assessment. A cotton blouse may have different care instructions than an apron of dupioni silk or an elaborately made Dirndl.

State the individual models separately when handing them in for cleaning and point out any particularities. Attached or detachable components should be treated in accordance with the care instructions.

If the label of a blouse or apron permits washing at home, that does not automatically apply to the accompanying Dirndl.

How do you treat stains on a Dirndl?

With a stain, a targeted treatment is better than a quick attempt with some household remedy. Do not rub the spot vigorously and do not use stain removers whose suitability for the weave and its colour is unclear.

Take the Dirndl to be cleaned as promptly as possible and state the cause of the stain. Whether wine, grease or something else has come onto the Gwand helps in choosing the procedure. Also mention if you have already treated the spot yourself.

With delicate surfaces and hand-worked trimmings in particular, the treatment should be agreed with a specialist.

Does a Dirndl have to be cleaned after every wearing?

Not necessarily. If the Dirndl has remained clean, thorough airing may suffice at first.

Hang it in a dry, shaded and well-ventilated place. Let the Gwand air out completely before you hang it back in the wardrobe.

Whether cleaning is needed depends on how long and under what conditions you have worn the Dirndl. Visible stains or persistent odours should be assessed before longer storage.

May you iron a Dirndl yourself?

That depends on the care label and the construction. Temperature and the use of steam must suit the respective model.

With ruffles, three-dimensional patterns, embroidery or cord stitching, particular care is needed. Unsuitable pressure or heat can change the surface.

If you are unsure, leave the pressing to a specialist as well. This applies especially when pleats and trimmings are to be brought carefully back into shape.

How do you store a Dirndl correctly?

Store your Dirndl clean, completely dry and with sufficient space in the wardrobe. A suitable, sufficiently wide hanger should carry the weight well without deforming the shoulder area.

The skirt should hang freely if possible and not be squeezed between other garments. This avoids unnecessary creases.

For longer storage, an air-permeable garment cover can protect against dust. Choose a dry place that is protected from direct sunlight.

How do you store the apron and the Dirndl blouse?

Store the apron untied if possible. A bow tied firmly over a long period can leave pronounced creases in the ribbons.

Whether the apron and blouse are better hung or carefully folded depends on the fabric and the design. What matters is that ruffles, sleeves and other details are not permanently pressed together.

Let all components dry completely after wearing or cleaning before you put them away.

What should you tell the cleaner?

A few details make it easier to give your Gwand the appropriate treatment:

• Care label: draw attention to the care instructions provided.
• Stains: where possible, state the cause and the time of the soiling.
• Your own treatment: mention which agents have already been used.
• Special construction: point out the boned corset, handwork and delicate trimmings.
• Accompanying models: have the Dirndl, apron and blouse each assessed individually.

Frequent questions on Dirndl care

Can a cotton Dirndl go in the washing machine?

That cannot be derived from the outer fabric alone. Lining, interlinings and trimmings also play a part. The care label is decisive. Gössl recommends having the Dirndl cleaned professionally wherever possible.

Does the apron have to be cleaned together with the Dirndl?

Not necessarily. Both models may be soiled differently and require different care procedures. Please observe the respective labels.

What helps if the Dirndl smells after wearing?

First air it thoroughly in a dry, protected place. If odours persist, turn to a professional cleaner.

Should a Dirndl be cleaned before a longer break from wearing?

Check it beforehand for stains and odours. Soiling should be treated before longer storage. A clean, well-aired Dirndl does not need to be cleaned again simply because of the break from wearing.

What to do if the care label is missing?

Ask at a Gössl store and have the article number to hand if possible. Until the matter is clarified, refrain from your own washing or cleaning attempts.

Lasting pleasure in your Gössl Dirndl

A carefully made Dirndl deserves equally careful care. Professional cleaning when needed, regular airing and good storage all contribute to your having pleasure in it for a long time.

If you have questions about your model, please contact the Gössl store of your choice. We will help you to clarify the appropriate care for your Gwand.

From those who can, for those who know.