A Guide for Washing Compression Socks

Compression socks continue to grow in popularity, so you may own a pair or two. Our socks are designed to provide you with benefits to help you in everyday life – whether you’re a nurse, a runner, an office worker, a senior, a traveler, or you’re expecting a child. However, compression socks need to be properly cared for in order to get the full range of benefits. Follow this guide to see how to wash your compression socks the right way.

Hand Washing vs. Machine Washing

At VIM & VIGR, we recommend washing your socks after every use. You can either use a washing machine or hand wash your socks. Using a washing machine is usually the more convenient option and can work well if done correctly. If you’re not careful and use the wrong washing machine settings, you could end up stretching or shrinking your socks and effecting the elasticity, defeating the purpose of compression socks altogether. To preserve the quality of your compression socks, be sure to wash in cold water only and on the delicate or hand wash setting if possible.

Hand washing may take a bit more time and effort, but it will ensure that your compression socks stay in the best condition possible. You can easily do this by using the right detergent to soak and scrub them in the sink.

In short, we always recommend that you wash your compression socks after wear, and you can use a machine washer on delicate settings or hand wash if you’re in a pinch. But we’ll get into that more later.

Finding Good Detergent

To treat your compression socks well, it may be worth spending some time finding the right soap for them. You should look through your local brands and find some mild soap or detergent that you can use on your compression socks. Doing so will ensure that you keep them in the best condition possible.

As you go to the store and look at the detergents available, you should see if any of them are specially formulated for delicate items like undergarments. VIM & VIGR socks contain a blend of nylon and spandex with either cotton or wool, closely matching common fabrics found in undergarments, stockings, leggings and other delicate items.

Finding the right detergent for your compression socks will make it easier and safer to wash them.

Picking Temperatures and Cycles

Avoid washing your compression socks in hot water, as it could cause the dye to bleed on the first wash. We recommend that you use cool water when you wash your compression socks. It’s best to go with the lightest setting or gentle cycle to ensure your socks last as long as possible.

Air Dry 

You may feel tempted to throw your compression socks into the dryer, but this is a major mistake. Remember compression socks are snug right out of the box. If you choose to use a dryer, then they may shrink and no longer fit correctly.

Air drying your socks will take more time than using a dryer, but it will also ensure that they hold their shape and size. You can purchase a drying rack or even use a shower rod to hang up your socks so they can dry off.

To speed up the process, try turning your socks inside out halfway through the drying process. This will help the moisture on the inside evaporate more efficiently.

And that’s all there is to it! You’re now ready to care for your VIM & VIGR compression socks and keep them in the best quality for years to come.