Washing stockings with silicone elastic

Silicone inserts are most often found in compression stockings. Therefore, we'll discuss washing instructions using these items as an example. We'll cover the basic care recommendations for elastic knitwear.

Is it washable?

People wear compression garments for therapeutic and preventative purposes. These garments are made using a special technology; they exert a compressive effect, which improves blood flow in the tissues. Many people wonder how to wash silicone-banded stockings without damaging them or compromising their beneficial properties.

Compression stockings are worn daily for many hours. As a result, they quickly become soiled, with dirt and skin particles accumulating between the fibers. Therefore, caring for elastic underwear is a pressing issue, as it must be washed frequently.

It is better to wash stockings with silicone elastic by hand; you should avoid washing them in a washing machine. After purchasing compression garments, you need to read the instructions for them – they will describe the basic rules for caring for the item.It is important to follow several important recommendations:

• use gentle liquid detergents for washing;
• Avoid wringing and do not twist elastic knitwear;
• ensure that the water temperature does not exceed 30-40°C;
• Dry laundry only in a horizontal position.

Compression stockings should not be ironed, as high temperatures are harmful to the elastic material.

By following simple guidelines, you can preserve the appearance and properties of your compression stockings for a long time. Let's explore how often you should wash them, which detergent to choose, and how to dry them properly.

Washing frequency

Anti-varicose stockings get dirty quite quickly. Washing compression garments daily is not recommended, as this will cause the garment to lose its therapeutic properties much more quickly. An acceptable frequency is two to three washes per week, but less frequent washings are preferable. It's important to consider the degree of soiling of the items.

Of course, there are situations when you need to break the regularity. For example, when wearing compression stockings after surgery. In such cases, you can wash the anti-varicose stockings daily for a couple of weeks.

People with varicose veins or a tendency toward swelling should consider owning several pairs of compression stockings. In this case, they'll need to wear supportive underwear constantly, and having a spare pair will save them the hassle of washing them daily and also prevent them from being worn dirty.

Choosing the right product

The lifespan of compression stockings directly depends on the detergent used to wash them. While regular washing powders aren't strictly prohibited, their use is discouraged due to their harsh ingredients. The granules also dissolve poorly in cool water and aren't completely rinsed out of the fabric fibers.

It is recommended to wash elastic stockings with hypoallergenic gels to avoid irritation while wearing the underwear.

Gentle gels for synthetic and natural fabrics are good for washing compression garments. For example, "Synergetic Hypoallergenic" or "Laska. Wool and Silk." Other liquid detergents for baby clothes and delicate fabrics are also suitable. These formulas work well even in cool water and are easier to rinse out of knitted fibers than powder.

Traditional washing

It's not recommended to throw anti-varicose vein stockings in the washing machine. Some manufacturers allow washing on a delicate cycle, but it's best to check the instructions for your compression garment. To be on the safe side, it's best to quickly hand-wash the stockings. The process doesn't require much time or effort. Here's how to proceed:

• fill a basin with warm water (temperature 30-40°C);
• Place the stockings in the container and wait until they are completely soaked;
• add detergent to the water (usually one capful of gel is enough, but it’s better to check the dosage on the packaging);
• Use your hand to whip up the soap lather;
• leave the stockings in soapy water for 10 minutes;
• Wash the items using gentle, careful movements. Rub the material only in the dirtiest areas.

During the washing process, do not lift the stockings out of the water - they may stretch under their own weight.

Once you've finished washing, proceed to rinsing:

• pour the soapy liquid out of the basin;
• fill the container with clean water;
• Rinse the items several times, changing the water until it becomes clear.

Wringing out compression garments is a crucial step. Stockings with elastic bands should not be twisted, as this will quickly ruin them. Squeezing the garments gently to allow the water to drain off gradually is acceptable. Hold the stockings with both hands to prevent them from stretching under their own weight.

The silicone strip at the top of the stockings is treated separately. Degrease it with alcohol before washing. It is advisable not to wet the insert during cleaning.

Drying stockings

Proper drying of therapeutic compression garments is equally important. Even if you wash the stockings according to all the recommendations and then hang them to dry (which is prohibited), they will still lose their shape and properties. How can you prevent them from stretching or shrinking after washing?

To prevent compression stockings from becoming deformed and to preserve their therapeutic properties, they must be dried according to basic rules.

• Drying is done naturally at a temperature of 22-25°C. The room must be well ventilated.
• Avoid using a hair dryer, hanging stockings on hot radiators, or placing them near heating appliances. Sudden temperature changes can easily compromise the compression properties of the stockings.
• Avoid laying anti-varicose vein stockings out to dry in direct sunlight. Ultraviolet rays and heat will damage the elastic knitwear.
• Do not hang compression garments on a line, much less secure them with clothespins. The elastic material is very sensitive to such impacts and can stretch within just a couple of hours.
• The best option is to dry clothes on a horizontal surface (table or special dryer).

To help absorb excess moisture, place a terry towel under the stockings for an hour or two. Don't put on compression garments until they're completely dry. If the material is even slightly damp, don't wear it, as it will deform.

   

Readers' comments