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Anime conventions are more than just fun gatherings, they’re high-energy, fast-paced events where cosplay, creativity, and chaos collide. Whether you’re a seasoned attendee or gearing up for your first con, preparing properly can make or break your experience. And it’s not just about the costume, cleaning, packing, and organising are essential steps every cosplayer needs to master before stepping into the crowd.
Before we dive into cosplay checklists and packing cubes, let’s address something that doesn’t get talked about enough: the mess. Con prep isn’t just about what you take, it’s about the space you’re working in. Between hot glue remnants, makeup smudges, and foam dust, even your floor can turn into a disaster zone. That’s why many creators swear by industrial-level tools like SweepScrub, which shows how to clean warehouse floors efficiently, skills surprisingly useful when prepping large prop areas or community booths before a con.
Now let’s break down the ultimate prep routine for cosplayers heading into Con Season 2025!
Step 1: Clean Your Workspace Before You Begin
Nothing ruins momentum like a cluttered or dusty crafting zone. Whether you’re assembling armor in your garage, gluing props in your basement, or styling wigs in your bedroom, cleaning your workspace should always come first.
Why it matters:
- Reduces risk of damaging your costume with stray materials
- Helps you locate small parts like beads, threads, or screws
- Promotes a focused and less stressful work environment
If you’re working in a shared or industrial-type space (like a community studio or storage unit), consider following best practices similar to those used in commercial settings. The Health and Safety Executive in the UK offers detailed guidance on safe and efficient cleaning techniques across a variety of environments. Their advice is especially useful for those operating booths or cosplay repair stations at cons.
Step 2: Start a Cosplay Checklist, And Actually Use It
Image from Unsplash
Think of your checklist like a power-up, it keeps you from forgetting key items and saves precious time during setup.
Your list should include:
- Main costume pieces (armor, gloves, shoes, wig)
- Undergarments or body suits
- Emergency repair kit (glue, thread, mini sewing kit, safety pins)
- Makeup and setting spray
- Business cards or social media tags
- Snacks and hydration
Go digital by using apps like Trello or Notion to organize packing lists, set reminders, and even attach photos of your build to reference during assembly.
Pro tip: create a “Cosplay Con Bag” with all your essentials that stays packed year-round. Just restock after each con and you’ll always be ready for the next one.
Step 3: Pack Like a Pro, Tetris Mode Activated
Packing for a con isn’t like tossing clothes into a suitcase. With fragile props, bulky costumes, and delicate accessories, every inch counts.
Consider:
- Packing cubes: Great for separating costume layers and keeping outfits wrinkle-free
- Garment bags: Protect larger outfits like dresses or robes from damage during transport
- Foam or bubble wrap: Essential for weapons, armor pieces, or headgear
- Clear pouches: Use for makeup, accessories, and toiletries for quick access
And don’t forget luggage tags and labels, especially if you’re sharing hotel space or dressing rooms with others.
Step 4: Costume Maintenance & Hygiene On-Site
Let’s be honest, cosplay can get sweaty. Long hours, thick fabrics, and crowded expo halls make it easy to overheat and hard to stay fresh.
On-site cleaning hacks:
- Bring fabric refresher spray or portable wrinkle release
- Pack deodorant wipes and blotting paper
- Use shoe inserts to avoid odor buildup in cosplay boots
- Carry extra safety pins and Velcro in case of damage mid-day
Some larger conventions now offer cosplay repair stations where volunteers help fix wardrobe malfunctions. Make a note of where these are located before arriving!
Step 5: Prep Your Booth Like a Pro
If you’re vending, hosting panels, or participating in group photoshoots, booth prep becomes part of your con responsibilities.
Prep tips:
- Clean your space beforehand: Just like in warehouse setups, using professional-grade methods to clean large or shared floors can be surprisingly effective, especially for multi-day expos.
- Layout matters: Sketch how you want your booth to look and where items will be placed.
- Add vertical displays: Utilize shelves, wall grids, or hanging racks to optimize space.
- Leave space for storage: Behind-table bins or foldable crates can store extra merch or personal bags.
Don’t forget signage, your name, socials, and pricing should be clearly visible. QR codes are increasingly popular for fast digital access to your content.
Step 6: Mental & Physical Wellness
Cosplay can take a toll on your energy levels, so don’t forget to prepare your mind and body too.
Tips:
- Rest the night before: Avoid all-nighters, your costume will show fatigue.
- Hydrate constantly: Carry a reusable water bottle and keep it filled.
- Eat breakfast: Protein-rich foods help fuel you through long days.
- Take breaks: Step outside for air, loosen tight costume pieces, and sit down often.
Consider building breaks into your schedule, especially if your costume is heavy, complex, or hot. Your health should always come before the perfect photo.
Step 7: Post-Con Cleanup & Reset
The con might be over, but the work isn’t. Once home, clean and store your costume properly to keep it con-ready for the next event.
Post-con cleanup tips:
- Wipe down armor or props to remove sweat, grime, or con-floor residue
- Air out wigs and wash if necessary
- Launder all fabrics, especially underlayers and bodysuits
- Restock your cosplay kit so it’s ready for the next event
Document what worked and what didn’t, did your shoes hurt? Did your packing method hold up? Take notes and adjust for next time.
Cosplay isn’t just about fandom, it’s a craft, a performance, and for many, a lifestyle. But to pull it off well, preparation is key. Whether you’re competing, vending, or just showing off your favorite anime character, organizing your process will take your cosplay from stressful to spectacular. And sometimes, the best tricks are borrowed from unlikely places. Just like you might use a SweepScrub method to keep a con floor sparkling, you can apply industrial-level preparation to your own con experience. Because when it comes to cosplay, the difference is in the details.
So prep smart, pack sharp, and show up with confidence. Con Season 2025 is calling, will your cosplay be ready?
