Compression Garments: Use, Care and Maintenance Guide
Compression garments are commonly used to help manage swelling, improve circulation and support overall limb health. Following proper instructions for fit, use and care can help ensure safety, comfort and effectiveness.
For instructions specific to your product, always refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines provided with your garment.
Types of Compression Garments
Different garment types are designed for specific clinical and lifestyle needs:
· Knee-high stockings: Common for mild to moderate venous issues
· Thigh-high stockings: Provide extended coverage above the knee
· Pantyhose/tights: Full lower-body compression
· Arm sleeves: Used for upper-extremity lymphedema
· Compression wraps: Adjustable alternatives for fluctuating swelling
· Nighttime garments: Designed for use during sleep with lower, sustained pressure
How Compression Garments Should Fit
Proper fit determines effectiveness and safety.
A well-fitted garment should:
· Feel snug but not painful
· Stay in place without rolling or bunching
· Provide consistent pressure without gaps
Warning signs of improper fit include:
· Numbness or tingling
· Skin discoloration
· Pain or pinching
· Garment slipping or rolling
If any of these occur, remove the garment and consult a healthcare provider.
When to Wear Compression Garments
Daytime Use
Most compression garments are designed to be worn during waking hours and removed before bed.
Nighttime Use
Only garments specifically designed for nighttime use should be worn during sleep, unless otherwise directed by a clinician.
Activity-Based Use
· Wear during long periods of sitting or standing
· Use during travel to reduce swelling
· Follow provider guidance for post-surgical wear schedules
How to Wash Compression Garments
Proper care helps maintain elasticity and therapeutic effectiveness.
Hand washing compression garments
- Use tap water (avoid chlorinated water).
- Clean with mild detergent (no bleach, fragrances or dyes).
- Rinse thoroughly.
- Roll in a towel to remove excess water.
- Air dry away from direct sunlight.
- Do not wring out.
- Do not use bleach or fabric softeners.
Machine washing compression garments
- Wash on a delicate cycle in cold water (≤ 40°C or 104°F).
- Place in a lingerie bag.
- Use mild detergent without dyes or fragrances.
- Do not use bleach or fabric softeners.
- Air dry when possible.
- If using a dryer, select the lowest heat and delicate cycle.
- Do not use dryer sheets.
Hand washing Velcro compression wraps
- Wash in warm water (avoid chlorinated water).
- Use mild detergent without bleach, dyes or fragrances.
- Lay flat on a towel to dry.
- Gently press to remove excess water.
- Avoid contact between Velcro and towel.
Machine washing Velcro compression wraps
- Wash in cold water.
- Avoid detergents with dyes or fragrances.
- Do not use bleach or fabric softeners.
- Lay flat to dry.
Common Problems and Solutions
| Problem | Likely Cause | What It Means | Recommended Solution |
|---|---|---|---|
| Difficult to put on | High compression level (e.g., 20–30 mmHg or higher) | Higher compression requires more force to apply and may be challenging without assistance | Use donning gloves or a donning device → Shop donning aids |
| Garment rolls down | Incorrect size or improper fit | The garment may be too small, too large, or not suited to limb shape | Re-measure and refit → View sizing guide |
| Garment slips or slides down | Loss of elasticity or worn-out fibers | Compression has degraded and is no longer effective | Replace garment → Shop replacement compression garments |
| Feels too tight or painful | Incorrect compression level or poor fit | Pressure may exceed therapeutic range or be unevenly distributed | Remove garment and consult provider; reassess compression level |
| Skin irritation or redness | Friction, moisture buildup, or sensitivity | Skin barrier may be compromised, especially with prolonged wear | Ensure proper fit, keep skin dry, consider alternative fabric or consult provider |
| Numbness or tingling | Excessive compression or impaired circulation | May indicate unsafe pressure or underlying vascular issue | Remove immediately and seek medical guidance |
| Wrinkling or bunching | Improper application or incorrect sizing | Uneven compression reduces effectiveness and may cause discomfort | Reapply garment carefully; verify correct size |
| Garment feels loose | Fabric fatigue or overstretching | Elastic fibers have degraded and no longer provide therapeutic pressure | Replace garment → Shop replacement compression garments |
| Visible wear (thinning, fraying) | Normal wear from washing and use | Structural integrity is compromised | Replace garment to maintain effectiveness |
| Excessive sweating or heat discomfort | Non-breathable material or prolonged wear | May reduce adherence to therapy | Consider moisture-wicking or lighter-weight options → Shop breathable compression garments |
| Difficulty removing garment | High compression or improper removal technique | Common with higher compression classes | Use donning/doffing aids; remove gradually rather than pulling → View donning aids |
| Uneven swelling despite use | Incorrect compression level or inconsistent wear | Therapy may not be sufficient for condition | Consult provider; reassess compression level and garment type |
How to Store Compression Garments
· Store in a cool, dry place
· Avoid direct sunlight
· Do not fold tightly in ways that stretch elastic fibers
Proper storage helps prevent premature material degradation.
Tips to Extend Garment Life
- Replace garments older than six months.
- Use donning gloves to reduce fabric strain.
- Keep garments away from sharp objects such as pins or pet claws.
- Do not dry clean.
- Avoid using lotions, creams or oils while wearing garments.
When to Replace Compression Garments
Compression garments lose effectiveness over time due to elastic fiber breakdown.
Typical Replacement Timeline
· Every 3–6 months with regular use
Signs It’s Time to Replace
· Garment feels loose or less supportive
· Slipping or rolling occurs frequently
· Visible stretching or thinning of fabric
· Reduced symptom relief
Replacing garments on schedule ensures consistent therapeutic benefit.
Below is a table for compression garment quantity allowables for Medicare, MN Medicaid, WI Medicaid and IA Medicaid. Please contact your provider or insurer for details to your specific coverage.
| Compression garment | WI Medicaid | MN Medicaid | IA Medicaid | Medicare |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Daytime compression garment | 3 per 6 months | 4 per 3 months | 3 per 12 months | 3 per 6 months |
| Nighttime compression garment | 2 per 24 months | 4 per 3 months | Call for details | 2 per 24 months |
| Velcro compression wraps | 3 per 6 months | 3 per 6 months | Call for details | 3 per 6 months |
Quantity allowable amounts are per extremity.
When to Contact a Healthcare Provider
Seek guidance if you experience:
· Persistent discomfort or pain
· Skin irritation or breakdown
· Changes in swelling that do not improve
· Uncertainty about fit or compression level
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you sleep in compression garments?
Only nighttime-specific compression garments should be worn while sleeping unless directed by a healthcare provider.
How often should compression garments be washed?
After each use to maintain hygiene and elasticity.
How long do compression garments last?
Typically 3–6 months depending on frequency of use and care.
Can compression garments be machine washed?
Some garments can be washed on a gentle cycle, but hand washing is recommended to extend lifespan.
What happens if compression garments are too loose?
They may not provide adequate therapeutic pressure and should be replaced or refitted.
Are fabric softeners safe to use?
No. Fabric softeners can damage elastic fibers and reduce effectiveness.
This content is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.