How should compression garments be washed — and is a spare needed?
Hand washing in cool water and air drying protect the elastic; a second garment makes near-continuous wear practical.
A compression garment only works while its elastic fibers still grip. Because it sits against healing skin for weeks, keeping it clean without wearing out the fabric becomes a daily logistics question.
Care routine that keeps compression working
Wash by hand in cool or lukewarm water with a mild detergent, skip fabric softener and bleach, and air dry away from direct heat — dryer heat is the fastest way to kill elastic. Rotating two garments lets one dry fully while the other is worn, and washing every day or two keeps incision sites in contact with clean fabric.
Fabric composition differs by product and swelling changes at an individual pace, so a garment that fit in week one may loosen later. If compression feels uneven or the fit becomes loose, ask the clinic at a follow-up consult whether to size down rather than guessing.
MediIndex articles are for general information only and are not medical advice, diagnosis, or advertising. Outcomes vary by individual — consult a board-certified specialist for personal decisions.