Graduated compression stockings can range from fairly expensive to very expensive depending on the brand and type of compression garment you choose.

They should be thought off as an investment in your health – your leg health that is. Because they can be somewhat costly support stockings and pantyhose with graduated compression are definitely not considered throw-away items.

According to most manufacturers’ specifications you can realistically expect compression stockings to last up to six months with proper care.

Compression stockings should be washed and cared for correctly.  Similar to other clothing items there are certain things you should pay attention to in order to get the most use out of your compression hosiery.

General Wash and Care Tips for your Compression Stockings:

• New compression stockings should be washed before they are worn the first time.
• Compression stockings should be turned inside out before washing.
• They should ideally be washed daily or at least every other day.
• The wash temperature should not exceed 104° F (or 40° C).
• Washing them too hot could damage the elastic properties of the fibers.
• Never use chlorine or fabric softeners to wash your compression stockings.
• Do not scrub them harshly, twist them or wring them out.
• Always rinse them thoroughly with warm water until the water runs clear.
• Air dry them lying flat on a towel or in a gentle dryer cycle inside a protective mesh bag.
• Never dry compression stockings over a heater or on a radiator.
• Do not iron compression stockings.
• Do not dry clean compression stockings.
• Do not expose them to direct sunlight for extended periods of time.
• Store your compression stockings in a dry place.
• Take proper care of your feet and toe nails (rough skin on your feet and jagged nails can damage your compression stockings).
• Make sure that the insides of your shoes are smooth to prevent your compression stockings from snagging or be sure to wear socks to protect them.
• Do not allow silicone hold up bands of compression stockings to come in contact with ointments, creams, solvents and moisturizing lotions as this could damage their adhesive properties.
• Keep your fingernails and hands smooth and remove any jewelry before handling your compression stockings
• Use rubberized gloves for easier donning and doffing of your compression stockings

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