I am always amazed with how much time and money organizations expend to "get it right" in all aspects of marketing, branding and entertainment yet spend so little on their mascot. Your mascot is a constant that never changes and could be a living breathing extension of your organization's brand. Even more powerful than your logo (by the way what did you spend on creating your marks)...but looking at most mascots or better yet smelling most of them you recognize how little of that power is ever realized. Most successful character branding programs start with the basics and nothing could be more basic than regular costume care and maintenance. So for those of you that realize the branding power that can be released by a great mascot or character program here are the top 10 ways to make your mascot look and of course smell great! If you follow them you will be on your way to MoneyMakingFun!
1) Contact the company that built your mascot costume and ask for instructions on how to care for it. They should have a written manual for you to follow.
2) Dedicate a storage area for your costume, supplies and props. This area should have power, access to water and is clean, dry and air conditioned.
3) Have repair kits for each of your mascot costumes. A sewing kit or tackle box will do. Fill it all the necessary care and repair supplies that are recommended by your costume construction company.
4) Create a file containing costume inventory and cleaning logs. The inventory should identify all of the costume items that you own. Each costume item should be numbered based on the year it was created. The cleaning log will record each cleaning and insure that regular cleanings are being done.
5) Never store your costume in a box or bag. Each costume item should be hung up after every performance free and clear of obstructions.
6) Use anti odor products in between cleanings. These help to kill bacteria on contact. Bacteria create odors that become embedded into the fabric and make it difficult for full cleanings to be effective.
7) Never use heat to dry your costume. Heat will always damage the fibers of your mascot costume. Hang dry your costumes and use fans to help air dry them.
8) Always use cold water and cold water cleaning products to wash your mascot costume. Hot water like heat can damage your costumes.
9) Use disinfectant wipes to clean your mascot costume’s helmet, chin straps and face screens. This is very important especially if you are using multiple performers.
10) Please develop a budget for the care and repair of your mascot costumes and treat them for what they could be...a living breathing extension of your brand.
