WHY WASH A COMPRESSION GARMENT?

Naturally occurring perspiration, oils and dead skin cells, as well as perfumes and moisturisers, emissions from medications or treatments and seepage from incisions can leave a residue on the skin.

As the close-fitting garment rubs against the skin, these residues build-up in the fibres. Regular washing can remove them before they degrade fibre elasticity.

HOW OFTEN TO WASH A COMPRESSION GARMENT

Research suggests washing every couple of days, but this can depend on the garment, how it is used and the condition of the skin.

A compression bra or garment worn for 6-8 weeks after surgery may retain sufficient performance with less frequent washing. A lymphoedema sleeve or hernia brief worn frequently over a longer period is likely to need more frequent care to retain performance.

Skin varies. It can be dry or oily, more prone to perspiration, or have changing emissions because of menstrual cycle, menopause or medications. Seasonal change and/or being active can also change the amount of skin residue.

HAND OR MACHINE WASH?

Always check the label.

Hand washing is not often specified.

If it is, fill a basin with cool (30 degree Celsius) water, mix in a gentle detergent (no fabric softener), immerse the garment, gently swirl and soak 10-20 minutes, then rinse thoroughly and gently shake off excess water but do not wring dry.

Machine washing is commonly specified.

Fully close all fasteners to reduce the risk of catching on other garments, turn the garment inside out and wash with similar coloured delicate garments. Do not overload the machine so the garment washes effectively and contact with other garments is reduced.

Use a delicate machine wash setting with short wash and spin time, low spin dry speed and 30-degree Celsius water temperature.

Use delicate label washing powders or liquids because they do not have the enzymes, brighteners and bleaching agents that can degrade fibre elasticity.

Do not use bleaches or fabric softeners because they can degrade fibre elasticity.

AIR DRYING IS THE ONLY WAY

Do not tumble dry because heat degrades fibre elasticity. Avoid hanging on a rail because the weight of the damp garment can ‘resist’ fibre recovery.

Leave the garment inside out, undo all fastenings, lay it on a towel on a flat surface indoors away from direct sun or outdoors in a fully shaded location and let the natural process of evaporation dry the garment.

LET IT REST

Research suggests that leaving a compression garment to ‘rest’ for a couple of days allows the fibres to regain the shape and elasticity that is part of achieving a good fit.

When the garment is dry, loosely fold it and let it rest on a flat surface before being worn again.