Some of Nightingale's best-known products are our compression garments. There are a few things to know to ensure that you are treating your products properly. Compression socks should be replaced up to every six months when worn regularly, for optimal benefits. It is important to take good care of your compression garments so that they last well through these six months, so here are some of our best tips!
Tips to keep your compression garments in tip top shape:
1. Wash your compression stockings by hand after every wear. To dry, lay garments flat after first pressing the excess water out between layers of towels instead of wringing them out. Do not put your compression garments in the washer or dryer.
2. Mark the date you received your new garments on the label and make sure to replace them regularly (at least every six months, possibly even as short as every three months depending on how often you wear them). Don't throw away older garments, instead, save them to use as your backup supply to wear when painting, swimming or gardening (activities where you may not want your brand-new compression wear to get dirty). They can also be used over top of your newer garments to protect them or to provide even more compression.
3. There are multiple ways to solve problems that may arise when donning and doffing your compression wear. Ensure that your nails are trimmed so that you do not accidentally poke a hole in your compression wear. Putting on and taking off the products can be made easier by wearing rubber gloves, which are included with your purchase of compression socks at Nightingale. We also offer donning aids (
available by clicking here) or, if possible, consider asking a loved one for help.
4. If you have lymphedema and require a
compression garment covering your arm, it can sometimes be difficult to protect the bandaging from water. Saran wrap and clear plastic bags can be helpful to protect your garment in a pinch.
For more information on caring for your compression garments, check out canadalymph.ca/hints-and-tips/.
