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How to Wash Compression Stockings
June 20, 2023
-
By
Sophia Grant
Compression therapy is a great way to boost circulation in the legs. Not only will they help maintain blood flow but they can also prevent swelling and discomfort.
Types of Compression Stockings
There’s more than one type of compression stockings to choose from:
Graduated Compression Stockings
These stockings offer strong compression at the ankles, which gradually decreases as you move up. Depending on the product, it may extend just below the knee or up to the thigh or waist.
Anti-Embolism Stockings
These stockings are designed to reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis, a serious condition that occurs when a blood clot forms in a vein. Unlike graduated compression stockings, they are not designed for mobility.
Nonmedical Support Hosiery
These types of compression socks usually don’t require a prescription. While they offer uniform compression, the amount of pressure that’s delivered isn’t nearly as strong as those mentioned above.
How to Wear Compression Stockings
For maximum benefits, you want to wear your compression socks all day. The goal is to put them on before the swelling can start. Ideally, you should only be taking them off when you’re going to bed at night.
If you’re new to wearing compression socks, however, you may want to start by wearing them for a few hours at a time. That way, you’ll be able to get used to the compression and pressure.
The way you put them on is also crucial and can affect their effectiveness. Here’s the proper way to do it.
Supplies:
- Chair
- Rubber gloves (optional)
Step 1:
Sit down in a chair and slide your toes into the top part of the stockings and bring them over your heal.
If necessary, you can wear a pair of rubber gloves – they will allow you to grip onto the stockings better.
Step 2:
Slide the rest of the stocking up your leg, using your hands to draw it over your calf. Avoid pulling the stockings from the top as that can rip the delicate material.
Are There Any Side Effects to Wearing Compression Stockings?
It’s important to check your legs daily for signs of irritation or redness if you wear compression socks.
These symptoms can indicate that you have an infection, that you’re not putting on or taking them off properly, or that you’re allergic to the fabric.
Rarely, misuse of compression socks can also lead to peripheral nerve damage.
What Are These Stockings Made Out Of?
Compression socks can be made from a variety of fabrics including nylon, spandex, cotton, and rubber.
Nylon
Nylon is sometimes referred to as polyamide. It’s a type of synthetic material and is constructed from plastic polymers, which makes it tear-proof and abrasion-resistant.
Not only is it smooth and lightweight but it also has a considerable amount of stretch. If anything, that’s why it’s often used for compression garments.
Spandex
Spandex is a synthetic fiber that is known for its elasticity. No matter how much you stretch it it will always return to its original length.
Cotton
Cotton is derived from cotton plants and is soft, insulating, and breathable, much more so than synthetic fabrics. For this reason, it’s often used for clothes such as sleepwear and underwear.
Natural Rubber
Natural rubber is made from latex from the rubber tree. Due to its durability and elasticity, it’s often incorporated into compression socks.
Taking Care of Your Compression Socks
All compression garments, including socks, must be washed after each wear. For example, you’ll want to wash them every day if you wear them daily. That will help prevent oils and sweat from building up on the inner layer.
This washing guide works for all types and brands of compression stockings including those from Compressionz and many others.
How to Wash Compression Stockings
There are two ways to wash compression socks – you can machine wash them with the rest of your laundry or wash them by hand.
Machine Washing Compression Socks
You can put your compression stockings in the washing machine as long as you take proper precautions.
Step 1: Use a Laundry Bag
Place your compression stockings in a mesh laundry bag and put it in the washer. It will prevent them from snagging and getting damaged while they’re being washed.
Step 2: Add Detergent
Add one scoop of ACTIVE Detergent. Remember not to use fabric softeners or chlorine bleach – both of these products can damage the compression fabric. Avoid using hot water as the heat can damage the sock material.
Step 3: Start the Machine
Run a cold, gentle cycle. Avoid using hot water as the heat can damage the elastic.
Supply:
- ACTIVE Detergent
- Laundry bag
You can wash your compression socks with other delicate items as long as you separate them with laundry bags and use a gentle wash cycle.
Take out the socks after the cycle is finished and gently press out the excess water.
Place them on a clean, flat surface (e.g. on top of a towel or table) and let them air dry. Do not place them near a heat surface and that includes the dryer. And remember, you never want to wring or twist compression socks – that will wear out the elastic, which will prevent them from providing adequate pressure to your legs.
ACTIVE Laundry Detergent
Effectively removes sweat and body oils from compression stockings.
Hand Washing Compression Socks
Handwashing your compression socks with mild detergent is the best way to make them last. While machine washing is effective, it can be tough on the fabric over time.
Supplies:
- ACTIVE Detergent
- Water
Step 1:
Start by filling a sink or container with cool water. Add half a scoop of ACTIVE Detergent powder and place your socks into the solution once it’s thoroughly dissolved.
Step 2:
Gently rub the material with your hands to remove any dirt or oils. Pay attention to the silicone bands as they tend to attract debris.
Let the compression socks sit in the soapy mixture for 15 minutes.
Step 3:
Rinse the garment thoroughly with cool water to remove all soap suds.
You may have to squeeze the material gently – just be careful not to pull on the material as that can cause it to stretch out.
Drying Your Compression Stockings
The way you dry your compression stockings is important as one wrong step can easily ruin the elastic.
Supplies:
- Clean towel
- Flat surface
Step 1:
After washing, carefully press the excess water out of the stockings. Never twist or wring the material – that will permanently damage the fibers.
If necessary, you can also blot them using a clean towel.
Step 2:
Place the compression stockings on a clean, flat surface and allow them to air dry.
Removing Stains From Your Compression Stockings
The key to removing stains is to act quickly. The longer you wait, the deeper it will set into the fabric, making them harder to remove.
Supplies:
- Water
- ACTIVE Detergent
- Old toothbrush
- Paper towels (optional)
Step 1:
Blot up as much of the stain as you can using paper towels.
Step 2:
In a small bowl, mix a bit of ACTIVE Detergent with water to create a soapy solution.
Step 3:
Using an old toothbrush, apply the detergent mixture onto the stain and gently rub it into the fabric.
Step 4:
Rinse the stained area with cool water. Once the stain is gone, you can launder the stockings as normal.
How Often Should You Replace Your Compression Stockings?
Ideally, you want to replace your compression sock every six months. This is important because, over time, they will lose their elasticity, which will render them less effective.
That’s why we recommend having more than one pair. By rotating them, you’ll be able to prolong their lifespan.
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Sophia Grant
Sophia Grant brings her extensive knowledge of laundry and clothing care to the masses with her intensive cleaning guides. Her thorough understanding of fabrics, detergents, and washing techniques helps readers master the art of maintaining their wardrobe. Sophia's advice ensures that anyone can achieve professional-level results at home, keeping their garments looking pristine and lasting longer.
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