Hosiery is an essential wardrobe staple. To ensure your tights and stockings stay in great condition and provide comfort every time you wear them, it's essential to know how to wash tights and care for them properly. Read on to discover the best way  to wash tights to keep them looking and feeling their best for longer. 

How Do You Wash Tights? Where to Start:

Before you start washing your tights, examine the care label. Tights are made from different materials, each with its own specific care requirements. As tights vary from thicker, opaque to delicate sheer materials, this can determine the care and handling instructions of different styles. Some may be machine-washable, while others may require gentle hand washing. Fishnet tights and lace tights need more delicate washing to avoid snags or laddering. By closely following the care instructions, you'll preserve your tights longer.

How to Wash Tights By Hand

For tights that require hand washing, there are a few crucial steps to keep in mind:

1 - Fill a basin or sink with lukewarm water and add a mild detergent.

2 - Gently swirl around the water to create suds.
3 - Submerge your tights and gently rub them together to clean. Be careful not to be too harsh when rubbing the material as you don’t want to create any damage to the material.
4 - Pay special attention to the feet and heel areas, which often need extra care and gently rub the material together in these areas to clean.
5 - Allow the tights to soak for 5-10 minutes.
6 - Rinse them thoroughly with cool water until all detergent is completely removed.
7- Gently squeeze out excess water, avoiding any wringing or twisting.

Can You Machine Wash Tights?

Washing tights in a machine wash generally causes no harm, just be a little gentle with them! Use a cold water setting and a delicate cycle. Avoid washing with rough fabrics like denim or clothing with zippers for sheer tights as these could easily snag. It is always worth checking the manufacturer instructions to be sure that your tights are machine washable!

If your tights are machine-washable, follow these steps:

1 - Place your tights in a laundry bag or pillowcase to protect them from potential snags and tangles.
2 - Use a delicate or gentle cycle with cold water.
3 - Add a small amount of mild detergent.
4 - Avoid using bleach or fabric softeners, as they may damage the fabric.
5 - After the cycle is complete, remove your tights from the laundry bag.

How to Dry Tights

Proper drying is important to maintain the shape and elasticity of your tights. Excessive heat or wringing the tights will lead to stretching, distortion, or damage to the fabric. The following steps will set you on the right path for the best way to dry tights:

1 - Lay your tights flat on a clean towel, gently rolling them from the waistband to the toes to remove excess water.
2 -  Avoid twisting, as this can stretch and damage the fabric.
3 - Lay your tights flat on a dry towel or hanger, making sure they remain in their natural shape.
4 - Keep them out of direct sunlight or heat to prevent fading and potential damage.

How Often Should You Wash Tights?

How often you should wash your tights depends on how often you wear them. If you wear tights frequently, it’s a good idea to wash them every 1-2 wears as they can build up sweat and body oils. If you wear tights less often or don’t sweat as much, you can get away with 3-4 wears. Ultimately, if your tights feel dirty or have wear and tear marks from the day, it’s time for a wash! 

How to Store Your Tights

Storing your tights correctly is essential to help them stay in the best condition for longer. When tights aren’t stored properly, they run the risk of snags and stretching.

Here are our top tips on how to store tights:

1 - Store them in a cool, dry place. Storing tights in a dedicated drawer or storage box can protect them from dust, sunlight, and potential snags.
2 - Avoid hanging them from the waistband, as this can cause stretching.
3 - Take care when handling tights to prevent snags from rough nails or jewellery.
4 - Regularly inspect your tights for any minor snags or runs, and mend them immediately with fabric glue designed for hosiery.

 

Caring for your tights through proper washing and maintenance can extend their lifespan and preserve their quality. By following these steps, you can enjoy your tights for many stylish and comfortable wears to come. Remember that quality tights are an investment in your wardrobe and treating them with care is well worth it. Follow our advice on the best way to wash tights, and yours will continue to complement your style for years to come.