Compression socks are not like regular socks. They open your blood vessels, assist in removing swelling, and make your legs feel better. Elderly people, nurses, traveling tourists, and anyone requiring medical care often wear them.
Did you know that the way you wash socks can actually help them run better and last longer? If you are too harsh or wash them the wrong way, they could stretch, and their tightness might disappear.
This lesson explains how you can wash your compression socks. While taking care of your car, you’ll also find out when and how to clean them and what to keep away from them. If you have just purchased socks or wear them all the time, you will learn how to take care of them in this article.
2. Important Points to Note When Washing Compression Socks
Before we begin washing, let's review important care suggestions. Compression socks are not constructed in the same manner as conventional socks. They contain elastic fabric that gently pushes against your legs. This pressure helps circulate blood throughout your body.
If you want them to fit well, you need to take good care of them. Now, let's discuss what you should keep in mind.
2.1 Temperature: Keep It Cool
Many people make the mistake of washing compression socks in hot water. Hot water can stretch the fabric, resulting in soft and thin socks.
Remember to use water at 30°C or below whenever you wash clothing. This will ensure that the fibers do not weaken or shrink.
Cool water keeps your darker or patterned socks looking better and prevents the colors from fading.
2.2 Use a Gentle Detergent
Always wash your compression socks with a moderate, soft detergent. Some everyday laundry soaps can be overpowering and other chemicals might harm your fabric.
Look for a detergent made for:
- Baby clothes
- Delicate fabrics
- Sensitive skin
Avoid bleach and fabric softeners. These can break down the compression fibers and make the socks loose, reducing their medical benefits.
2.3 Hand Washing Is the Best Choice
Although tossing your socks into the washing machine is tempting, hand washing is much safer. The machine’s spinning and heat can weaken the elastic. Hand washing is gentle and keeps the socks' shape longer.
You don’t need anything fancy to hand wash. A sink or basin, cool water, and mild soap will do the trick.
Soak the socks for about 10 minutes. Gently rub them with your hands to clean away dirt and oils. Then rinse them thoroughly in cool water.
This small step adds months of life to your socks.
2.4 Don’t Use a Dryer — Air Dry Instead
Throwing your socks in the dryer to smarten them up is a lazy and ineffective strategy. The heat in dryers often damages the elastic parts of socks.
Air dry your clothes by laying them flat instead of putting them in the dryer. Look for a place in your home away from drafts. Putting your clothes out in the sun can lead to color loss.
Place your laundry on a towel and press on each item by hand as soon as it finishes washing. Be sure not to squeeze or wring your clothes because the shape will change.
2.5 Skip the Wringing and Twisting
Do not twist your socks after washing them; never wring out the water. Even though this is the most basic method, it is not suitable for the material of your garments.
Instead, pat the socks dry with a towel. Then lay them flat and let them air dry naturally.
2.6 Wash Similar Colors Together
Compression socks come in many fun colors and styles. But just like regular laundry, colors can bleed. Wash your dark socks apart from your light socks to protect your colors from transfer. As a result, your socks continue to look new, even after you’ve washed them a lot.
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3. How Often Should You Wash Compression Socks?
Whenever you wear compression socks, you should wash. They stay clean and smell excellent. The sweat and oils from your legs permeate and soak the cloth.
They also reduce skin irritation and odor, which is especially useful when wearing socks for an extended period.
If you just wear them for an hour or so, you may wash them every other day. But daily wear means daily washing.
We recommend owning at least 3 to 4 pairs. That way, you always have a clean one ready while the others are drying. You can explore more sock styles at Plusock’s compression sock collection.
4. How to Wash Compression Socks: Step-by-Step
Now that we know what not to do and what to do, let's examine the entire washing procedure. This will help you ensure you are cleaning your socks correctly each time.
4.1 The Hand-Washing Method (Most Recommended)
This method is the safest way to clean your socks.
What You Need:
- A basin or sink
- Mild detergent
- Cold or lukewarm water
- A towel
Steps:
- Fill the basin with cool water.
- Put in a small amount of mild detergent.
- Leave the socks in the water for 10-15 minutes.
- Work the cloth with your hands to remove perspiration and grime.
- Make sure to rinse off the soap until the spot seems clean thoroughly.
- Place the socks on a clean towel and press to dry them.
This simple process helps your socks stay elastic and firm.
4.2 The Washing Machine Method (Use with Caution)
Sometimes, hand washing isn’t an option. You might be busy or dealing with many pairs. In that case, a gentle machine wash can work if done carefully.
Follow these tips:
- Before washing, turn the socks inside out.
- Put your bright garments in a mesh bag to keep them durable.
- When washing, use a delicate or mild cycle.
- Always use cold water and moderate detergent.
- Neither bleach nor fabric softener should ever be used.
After the wash, skip the dryer. Remove them from the bag and lay them flat to air dry. Machine washing isn’t ideal, but with the right care, it can still work.
5. Summary: Keep Your Compression Socks in Great Shape
Many people wear compression socks daily to help them feel better. They can reduce edema, support your legs to feel better, and enhance blood flow. However, if you fail to maintain them, they may cease to perform properly.
Once your socks are no longer needed, machine wash them in cold or lukewarm water. Try using a delicate detergent and skip bleach and dryers while washing your socks. For best results, hand wash and air dry flat to keep them firm and fresh.
Want to add more socks to your rotation? Visit Plusock for quality compression socks that are both stylish and supportive.
Read more:
How to Put On Compression Socks?
When to Put on Compression Socks for Travel?
How Long to Wear Compression Socks After Surgery