How to Care for Your Compression Garments (and Know When to Replace Them)
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To keep your compression garments working their best, place them in a delicates bag, machine wash on the delicates cycle with an additive-free detergent, then tumble dry on low. Wash them often, and plan to replace them every few months, when they stop feeling snug or no longer spring back into shape after washing. Good care protects both the garment and the results you rely on.
Key takeaways
- Wash in a delicates bag on the delicates cycle with an additive-free detergent, then tumble dry on low.
- Wash frequently. Clean garments hold their compression better and last longer.
- Replace every few months, typically within four to six months of regular wear.
- Keep a rotation of two or three so one is always clean and working.
Why garment care matters
Compression only helps if the fabric still delivers the right pressure. Body oils, lotions, and everyday wear gradually break down the fibers, so regular, gentle washing actually helps a garment keep its shape and compression. Caring for it well is part of caring for yourself.
How to wash your compression
- Place the garment in a delicates or mesh laundry bag to protect it.
- Machine wash on the delicates or gentle cycle.
- Use a mild, additive-free detergent. Avoid bleach, fabric softener, and harsh additives, which damage the fibers.
- Wash after each wearing when you can, since oils and sweat wear the fabric down.
How to dry your compression
Place the garment, still in its delicates bag, in the dryer on low heat until fully dry. Avoid high heat, which can damage the elastic fibers. Following the care instructions is the simplest way to protect your investment.
When to replace a compression garment
Even with perfect care, compression garments wear out. Most need replacing every few months with regular wear, usually within four to six months. The clearest signs it is time for a new one are when the garment no longer feels snug, slides down, becomes easier to put on than it used to be, or stops springing back into shape after a wash. When in doubt, it is better to replace than to keep wearing a garment that no longer compresses.
Keep a rotation
Having two or three garments in rotation means one is always clean and ready, and alternating them lets each recover its stretch between wears, so they all last longer. It also means you are never caught without.
Frequently asked questions
How do I wash a compression sleeve or sock?
Place it in a delicates bag, machine wash on the delicates cycle with an additive-free detergent, then tumble dry on low. Skip bleach and fabric softener.
How often should I wash my compression?
As often as you can, ideally after each wearing. Oils and sweat break the fabric down, so regular washing actually helps it last.
How often should I replace my compression garments?
Most last a few months with regular wear, typically four to six months. Replace sooner if it stops feeling snug or springing back into shape.
How do I know a garment has lost its compression?
It feels looser, is easier to put on than when new, slides down, or no longer bounces back after washing. Those are all signs it is time for a fresh one.
This article is for general education and is not medical advice. Follow the care guidance for your specific garments and your therapist's recommendations. Trusted resources include the Lymphatic Education and Research Network (LE&RN) and the National Lymphedema Network.
Written by the LympheDIVAs team. We have made beautiful, medical-grade compression for people living with lymphedema since 2006.