How to Wash Compression Socks (Plus Tips for Drying Compression Garments)

Co-authored by Vlad Gendelman, MD and Sophia Latorre

Last Updated: February 26, 2023 References

If you wear compression socks, you know how important they are to maintain blood flow and prevent swelling and discomfort.^{[1]
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Expert Source

Vlad Gendelman, MD
Board Certified Physician
Expert Interview. 17 July 2020.} Washing them daily is essential to remove oil and bacteria, and even helps maintain their shape and elasticity. However, cleaning instructions vary by brand. So what’s the best way to wash compression socks? Hand-washing and air-drying them is your best bet, but we’ll walk you through cleaning them in the washing machine, too.

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:

Machine Washing Compression Socks

1
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for machine washing. Some brands of compression socks can be washed in the machine, while others can’t. Look for care instructions on the package they came in or the socks themselves.^{[2]
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Trustworthy Source
Cleveland Clinic
Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals
Go to source} If you can’t find any info, try searching “compression sock care instructions + [your brand]” online.
- In general, you can wash compression socks in a load with like items.
2
Use a gentle wash cycle and warm water. Set your washer to “delicates” and the water temperature to 30 to 40 °C (86 to 104 °F).^{[3]
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- Some manufacturers recommend putting the socks in a mesh garment bag before putting them in the washer. That will keep them from getting caught on anything else, which could stretch out the fabric.
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3
Wash the socks with mild detergent. Any standard mild laundry detergent without additives will work.^{[4]
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Research source} However, don’t use Woolite brand detergent.^{[5]
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Research source} Avoid using chlorine bleach or fabric softener, as well.^{[6]
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Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

Hand Washing Compression Socks

1
Fill a basin with warm water. Use water that’s about 40 °C (104 °F) so that it’s comfortable to stick your hands in.^{[7]
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Trustworthy Source
National Health Service (UK)
Public healthcare system of the UK
Go to source} A small bucket, large bowl, or sink will work fine for this.
- Hot water could stretch out the fabric, so stick to warm water.
2
Add a few drops of gentle detergent. Any mild detergent on the market should work here. Even dish soap is a good option!^{[8]
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Research source} You only need to add a few drops to get your socks clean. Swish the water and soap around so they mix together.
- Avoid using Woolite detergent.^{[9]
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  Research source} Steer clear of any bleach or fabric softener, too.^{[10]
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3
Soak your compression socks for 5-10 minutes, then rub them. Put both socks in the basin and let the soapy water soak into the fibers. After 5-10 minutes, rub the socks gently to get out all of the dirt and oil.^{[11]
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4
Rinse your socks thoroughly. Once your socks are clean, run them under warm water to get rid of all the soap residue.^{[12]
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5
Squeeze out the excess water gently. Take care not to stretch your socks or wring them out. Just gently squeeze the fabric to get out as much water as you can. Then, roll your socks in a dry towel to absorb even more moisture.^{[13]
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Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

Drying Compression Socks

1
Lay out your socks to dry for the gentlest option. Air-drying is the best option here, especially if you’re not sure if the brand of compression socks you own can go in the dryer.^{[14]
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Trustworthy Source
MedlinePlus
Collection of medical information sourced from the US National Library of Medicine
Go to source} Lay them out flat and let them dry completely before wearing them again.^{[15]
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- Don’t hang them up, as this could stretch out the fabric.^{[16]
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2
Put them in the dryer only if the manufacturer recommends it. If your brand of socks can go in the dryer, choose a gentle cycle and set the temperature to cool.^{[17]
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3
Keep your compression socks away from direct heat. Don’t place your compression socks near radiators or other sources of heat.^{[18]
X
Trustworthy Source
National Health Service (UK)
Public healthcare system of the UK
Go to source} Avoid drying your socks in direct sunlight as well.^{[19]
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