Whenever we put on a pair of stockings, we instantly feel more put-together. But as fabulous as they are, stockings are also delicate when it comes to care.
So, can you really wash stockings? Of course! With a bit of time and patience, your favourite pairs will look and feel new for longer. We know how annoying it is when stockings snag, lose their shape or start to feel a little tired. Here are our simple tips to help you wash and care for your stockings at home.
How to wash stockings by hand
From our experience, hand washing should be your go-to option. It’s the most gentle and protects the fibres more than if they go through a machine.
Following these steps can help you to keep your hosiery looking flawless and feeling supportive.
Step 1. Fill a basin or bowl with cool to cold water
The first rule of looking after hosiery is to always avoid hot water. Heat can damage the fibres of your stockings. Lukewarm water is gentle enough to clean and won’t cause shrinkage or stretching.
Step 2. Add a mild detergent
Next, we like to use a lingerie wash or a gentle liquid detergent. You don’t have to use anything special, but skip fabric softeners or strong detergents. They can break down the elasticity, and nobody wants stockings that won’t stay up!
Step 3. Submerge and soak
Place your stockings in the water and let them soak for around five to 10 minutes. This is long enough to lift away oils and dirt. Don’t scrub them, just let the water do the work.
Step 4. Gently wash
We recommend removing jewellery and checking that your nails won’t catch before beginning this step. To gently wash your stockings, swish them through the water. Give the areas that collect dirt the most, like the feet or tops, a little extra attention. Avoid wringing or twisting, as that can stretch the fabric.
Step 5. Rinse your stockings thoroughly
Tip away your used water and rinse your stockings in clean, cool water until all detergent is removed.
How do you wash stockings in the washing machine?
Although hand washing is the best option, it's not always the most practical. Here’s how to safely wash your stockings using a washing machine.
Step 1. Use a lingerie bag
A game changer for washing lingerie in the washing machine is to use a mesh lingerie bag. This will prevent snagging on zips, hooks or rougher fabrics during the wash.
Step 2. Choose a gentle cycle
If your washing machine has extra settings, pick the hand-wash or delicate setting. The slower spin is much kinder on your hosiery.
Step 3. Wash in cool water
Stick to cold or lukewarm water, as hot water can weaken fibres and cause stockings to lose elasticity. Try to use 20°C or 30°C water as a maximum.
Step 4. Add mild detergent
Use a gentle, lingerie-safe detergent. Avoid bleach and fabric softeners, which can break down delicate fabrics.
Step 5. Keep loads light
Wash stockings with other delicates like lingerie or soft fabrics. Heavy items such as jeans or towels can stretch or tear your stockings during the wash.
Step 6. Rinse out any remaining detergent
Once the cycle has finished, give your stockings a quick rinse under cold water to remove any leftover detergent. Then they’re ready to dry.
How to dry stockings
The last thing you want to do after carefully washing your stockings is to ruin them by drying them incorrectly. Here is the best way to dry your stockings so they keep their shape.
Step 1. Gently remove excess water
Once you’ve rinsed off your stockings after either hand or machine washing, press them between a clean, dry towel to absorb moisture. Avoid wringing or twisting, as this can stretch or damage the fibres.
Step 2. Lay flat to dry
The best way to dry your stockings is to lie them flat on a dry towel or a drying rack. This will help them to keep their shape and prevent them from stretching.
Step 3. Keep them away from heat
Like we mentioned before, avoid heat! Try not to use radiators, tumble dryers or direct sunlight, as heat can weaken the delicate fibres and fade colours.
Step 4. Allow your stockings time to air dry naturally
To dry your stockings without damaging their quality, let them air dry. Fortunately, you usually don’t have to wait long, as the lightweight fibres of stockings mean they tend to dry quickly.
By following these straightforward steps, your favourite pairs will stick around and stay stylish staples in your lingerie drawer for ages. The tips discussed above might only be small changes to your usual laundry routine, but they can make a huge difference to the life of your stockings.
No more frustration over snags or sagging! Instead, you’ll enjoy the confidence that comes with slipping into stockings that fit and flatter every single time.
