Mascot costumes are a big investment, and proper care ensures they remain in top shape for years to come. Whether you’re using mascot characters for business, school events, or sports teams, following the right maintenance routine will help you get the most out of your purchase. In this guide, we’ll cover essential tips on how to care for your mascot costume, including how they are made, how to clean them, and how to wash specific components.

How Are Mascot Costumes Made?

Understanding how mascot costumes are constructed can help you take better care of them. High-quality mascot costumes are typically made from durable yet lightweight materials to provide comfort and flexibility for the performer. Here are the main components:

• Head: The mascot head is often crafted from a combination of open and closed-cell foams or lightweight molded plastic covered in fabric. Inside the head is a helmet with removable padding for a secure fit. A ventilation fan is also built in to exchange warm, moist air for fresh air.
• Body & Gloves: Most mascot costumes for adults feature a fabric body suit made from breathable materials such as twills, nylon fleeces, or faux fur. Some suits include inner bodies made of porous reticulated foam sandwiched between layers of sports mesh. The inner body is what gives the mascot character its shape and structure, but is also soft and squishy. Mascot gloves as usually padded and lined with the same or complementary fabric as the body.
• Feet: Mascot shoes are either carved or molded from lightweight flexible foam and include snug-fitting interior neoprene booties to allow flexibility and easy movement. The base of the feet include a layer of hard rubber shoe soling material for easy walking on any type of indoor or outdoor surface.

Understanding these elements ensures that you clean and store each part appropriately, preserving the quality of the best mascot costumes on the market.

How to Clean Mascot Costumes

Regular cleaning is key to maintaining mascot costumes and extending their lifespan. Here are some general cleaning tips for mascot components that cannot be washed in a machine:

• Wipe With Damp Cloth: This is a good habit to get into after every use of the mascot costume. Simply wipe it down with a damp cloth to get rid of any surface dust and dirt. This is especially important if your mascot was performing outside.
• Spot Cleaning: For minor stains, use a damp cloth with mild detergent. Avoid harsh chemicals that may damage the fabric. For a more in-depth spot treatment, a wet/dry vacuum is the way to go.
• Brushing & Grooming: If your mascot costume has fur, gently brush it with a soft-bristled pet brush to maintain its fluffiness. Be careful not to pull too hard on the fibers.
• Deodorizing: Spraying the inside with a fabric-safe deodorizer keeps the costume fresh between performances. Anti-bacterial wipes can also be used on the inside of heads and feet.
• Storage: Make sure your costume is completely dry before putting it away. Store your mascot costume in a cool, dry place. Avoid compression to prevent misshaping the head and other padded areas.

These simple cleaning habits will help your mascot costume stay fresh and ready for every event.

How to Wash a Mascot Costume

Washing a mascot costume requires special care to avoid damage. Follow these steps to clean different parts of your adult mascot costume properly:

Washing the Fabric Body

1. Check with your manufacturer first. If they have not provided washing instructions, they will be able to guide you on any precautions to take before washing any part of your mascot costume.
2. Hand wash or use a gentle cycle in a washing machine with cold water and mild detergent. The pieces that can typically be washed this way include the jumpsuit, innerbody and gloves.
3. Hang the pieces to dry and air dry completely before storing.

Cleaning the Mascot Head

1. Do not submerge the head in water. Instead, wipe down the exterior with a damp cloth and mild soap.
2. Use disinfectant wipes inside the head to remove sweat and bacteria.
3. Air dry thoroughly to prevent mold or mildew buildup.

Caring for Hands & Feet

1. Hand wash gloves and shoe covers (if removable) with mild detergent.
2. Let them air dry completely to avoid shrinking or misshaping.

By following these washing instructions, you can extend the life of your mascot costumes, ensuring they remain clean and comfortable for multiple uses.

Conclusion

Proper care and maintenance are essential to preserving mascot costumes. Keeping them clean and well-maintained will ensure longevity. By understanding how mascots are made, following proper cleaning techniques, and carefully washing different components, you’ll get the best mascot costumes that stand the test of time.
For high-quality mascots, always follow manufacturer guidelines and implement a routine care plan to maximize their lifespan and keep them looking their best!