To maintain both hygiene and the therapeutic effectiveness of the garment, medical professionals recommend washing compression stockings every day or at least after every use. When you wear the stockings, the elastic fibers stretch to conform to your legs; washing them helps the fabric "snap back" to its original shape, ensuring the graduated compression remains consistent and effective. Furthermore, skin cells, oils, and sweat accumulate on the fabric throughout the day, which can break down the elastic fibers over time and harbor bacteria. It is best to hand wash them using a mild detergent or a specialized "washing solution" designed for elastic fabrics, as standard detergents with bleach or softeners can damage the material. If you must use a machine, place them in a mesh laundry bag on a gentle cycle with cold water. Crucially, you should never put them in a dryer; instead, pat them with a towel to remove excess moisture and hang them to air dry. Owning at least two pairs is advisable so that one can be worn while the other is being laundered and dried.