At Labada Commercial Laundry, most of our days are spent ensuring medical clinics have perfectly sanitized scrubs and spas have the fluffiest towels in Vancouver.
But every once in a while, we get a challenge that is a little more... wild.
We recently had the privilege of cleaning and restoring a custom-made Polar Bear costume. When a client brings in a high-value, one-of-a-kind asset like this, they aren't just looking for "clean." They are looking for restoration and preservation.
The Challenge: Big, Fluffy, and Delicate
Mascots and performance costumes are significantly harder to clean than standard garments.
- The Texture: The faux fur needs to be brightened without using harsh bleaches that could melt or damage the synthetic fibers.
- The Structure: The head and body shape are custom-built. A standard tumble dry would destroy the internal structure.
- The Stakes: Unlike a bedsheet, you can't just buy a replacement at the store. This is a custom asset.
The Labada Solution
We treated this bear with our signature delicate care process.
Using specialized, eco-friendly detergents, we were able to lift the soil and restore the bright, snowy-white appearance of the fur. More importantly, we ensured the fibres remained soft and fluffy, rather than matting down—a common mistake when cleaning faux fur.
Once the cleaning was complete, we didn't just hand it back on a hanger. We carefully packed the costume in our protective, breathable garment bags to ensure it stays pristine until its next performance.
Do You Have a Specialty Item?
If we can handle a giant Polar Bear, we can handle your delicate items, too.
Whether you manage a theatre company, a sports team with a mascot, or just have a high-value personal item like a wedding dress or vintage coat, trust the experts at Labada.
Don't risk your valuables in a standard wash. Contact us today for a quote on specialty cleaning.
Tags: #SpecialtyCleaning #MascotCare #VancouverSmallBusiness #LabadaLaundry #CostumeRestoration #CoquitlamBusiness