The costume collection in the theatre collection of the museum of the city of New York has about 2500 costumes and about 1000 accessory items. Preliminary steps for its care are described. First of all fabrics are identified, then the costume cleaned, by washing or dry-cleaning as appropriate. Storage possibilities are varied, depending on available space and funding, but much can be accomplished using acid-free boxes and interleaving tissue. If costumes must be hung, they should be placed on fabric-covered hangers, and in turn be covered. Costumes should be kept cool, dark, and well-ventilated. Their enemies are heat, light, excessively dry or moist conditions, close packing and fluctuating temperature and relative humidity. Display will accelerate their deterioration, but if it is essential, then costumes should be carefully fitted onto a mannequin, and kept clean while on show. -- ICCROM