You may be unfamiliar with the benefits of wearing compression socks. These handy socks can aid in keeping your legs feeling healthy and limber throughout lengthy flights or periods of speeding up the recovery process after an injury. In that case, finding out how to clean compression socks is equally important.
To get the most wear out of your new socks, it is better to learn as much as possible about proper maintenance.
How often you should wash compression socks, which detergents work best, and how to clean compression socks will all be discussed here.
How to Care For Compression Socks
Compression socks differ from standard socks. Initially, you want them to have the longest possible service life.
There is a common misperception that is caring for compression socks is identical to caring for regular socks: toss them in the washing machine with the other socks.
If you do not properly maintain them, they are more prone to tear, lose their characteristics, and shrink. The primary cause is inadequate care, which affects compression material and quality.
Your socks should maintain the same size, tightness, and quality as when you first purchased them.
Due to this, shrinking would cause them to become more constrictive, which could significantly influence air circulation. Alternatively, they will be useless if they lose their compression qualities and become loose or torn.
Learning how to properly care for compression socks for optimal performance and comfort is best.
Tips on How to Clean Compression Socks
If you use compression socks when running or hiking, wash them frequently to keep them smelling fresh and feeling comfortable.
Taking any special care of the socks is unnecessary since they are similar to those you would wear to treat edema or varicose veins as long as they are not exposed to harmful elements.
In contrast, washing compression socks of good quality should last a reasonable amount of time while maintaining their quality. Check out these instructions for cleaning yours.
Handwashing Compression Socks
Hand washing compression socks requires extra care to avoid stretching the socks.
Compression socks should be washed by soaking them in cold or lukewarm water and then rubbing them gently with your hands.
Softeners and bleach should be avoided.
Once you have cleaned all the grime and stains, rinse them under the running water. Afterward, squeeze out the excess moisture and let them air dry.
Machine Washing Compression Socks
Compression socks, like those made of most other textiles, should be washed after each use.
Merino Wool Compression Socks are more durable than other materials since they resist odor.
The most convenient option is to wash them in the washing machine using the delicate cycle and cold water.
You should not wash them in really hot water, as this could damage the compression in the material, so keep them separate from your badly soiled and colored clothes.
Because you also don’t want to worry about how to remove color-bleeding stains.
Cleaning your socks after a long run is as simple as throwing them in the washing machine at the highest possible temperature (maximum 40 degrees C/104 degrees F).
Use The Appropriate Detergent
It is best to keep things simple while washing your compression socks.
A regular laundry detergent without optical brighteners should do the trick.
Using harsh cleaning products on your socks, like harsh detergents or stain removers, is not a good idea because they could ruin the material.
Do Not Use Bleach
Chlorine bleach may do the same thing to the fibers in compression socks. Loss of flexibility reduces their usefulness in several situations.
Discoloration could result, which would be a shame because it would spoil the designs.
Consider Fabric Type
Ensure you know the material type and read the label before washing your compression socks.
Although cotton compression socks may fare well in a hotter wash, it is always advised to consult the label and care directions.
How Frequently Should Compression Socks Be Cleaned?
The frequency of washing is an essential factor to consider when determining how to wash compression socks.
Most individuals prefer to clean all types of socks after each usage, either immediately or in the next available washing machine load.
There is no need to immediately wash compression socks after wearing them.
Your socks will maintain their pressure levels, preventing the formation of blood clots and other adverse effects in your lower extremities.
They will also have more vibrant hues that are more durable.
How to Air Dry Your Compression Socks
Compression socks should be hung up to dry in the fresh air to prevent any wear and tear on the fabric.
You may speed up the drying process by hanging them outside to dry in the wind and fresh air (especially in the case of moisture-wick Nylon socks).
As a bonus, they will have a wonderful aroma.
Nothing to worry about if you cannot hang your socks to dry in the fresh air. Compression socks and stockings can dry fine when left out to dry in the house.
If you let your compression socks air dry, they will retain their form and size for much longer, whether you’re wearing them indoors or outside.
Compression socks might lose shape and no longer fit if you dry them in a dryer.
When To Replace Compression Socks
If you wear compression socks daily, throwing them out every three to six months is best.
This is the greatest way to enjoy the benefits of wearing socks while getting the most out of them.
Compression socks, if maintained properly, can be an invaluable tool in the fight against edema and other disorders that affect the lower extremities and the ability to enjoy a sense of lightness and fitness.
After washing, you should fold and put away your socks.
Final thoughts; How To Clean Compression Socks
We all want our compression to last as long as possible, but even the most quality ones will stretch and wear out in a few months.
The normal lifespan of compression socks is 3 to 6 months.
If you see that material has become loose, worn out, or lost properties, it is time for a new pair. If that day has come, check out our shop and get a couple of affordable hydrating compression socks!