Syttende Mai has come and gone for the year. If you have a bunad, this is a good time to think about maintenance and post-party care, as issues like stains, holes and tears can happen during a day of festivities.
Norwegians spend upwards of 40,000 kroner (US$4,000) having a bunad made, generally when they are in their teens, and with good care, the garments are meant to last a lifetime. Finding damage from moths or stains can be devastating.
According to figures from Norsk Flid Husfliden, Norwegians have around 2.5 million bunads in their homes. Each spring, bunad shops experience a huge influx of inquiries from distraught Norwegians whose bunads have been damaged.
"Typical damage includes stains, burn holes, and fabric torn on sharp edges. We also see damage caused by fire or accidental immersion in the sea or water," Irene Tørhaug from Norsk Flid Husfliden tells varingen.no.
"Other types of damage we see include moth and moisture damage due to improper storage," says Karin Hansen, store manager at Norske Bunader. She recommends insuring your bunad.
"Homeowners insurance covers the bunad while it is hanging in your closet at home, but when traveling or participating in the May 17th parade, you should have separate insurance for it," according to Einar Brekken, Product Manager at Frende Forsikring.
How to care for your bunad:
Air out your bunad thoroughly after each use. Pat surface stains with a damp cloth.
Dry clean your bunad when necessary.
The shirt or blouse should be hand washed. Use detergent specifically designed for this purpose. Rinse the shirt 5–6 times after washing.
Stains happen. If you get a stain on a white garment, soaking it in ice-cold water for 24 hours is an underrated solution.
Store your bunad and shirt or blouse inside a cotton garment bag, in a dry, well-ventilated place.
Place cedar balls in your closet or with the bunad to help keep moths at bay.
If you are traveling with your bunad, pack it in a garment bag and always take it as carry-on luggage. This applies to your silver jewelry as well.