How to make tights last for longer
Finding a great pair of tights can be difficult. However, even the best pair of tights needs to be cared for. These simple steps that make tights last longer are easy to remember and will come in handy on those odd occasions when you are rushing to work or getting ready to go out for the evening.
Be careful with jewellery and nails
Take off rings, bracelets and watches before putting on tights, as they catch easily and cause snags and ladders. This applies whether you have a great pair of fishnet tights for an evening out, from companies such as bettertights.com/collections/fishnet-tights, warm opaque tights for colder days, or compression stockings that you need to wear every day. Even thicker tights can snag.
If you have long or sharp nails it is wise to file the rough edges, and you may also want to wear thin cotton gloves when putting on your tights.
Put them on slowly
- Roll one leg of the tights all the way down to the toe.
- Place your foot in, lining your toes up with the toe seam.
- Unroll the leg gently up to your knee, then do the same with the other leg.
- Ease the tights up to just below the crotch, smoothing out wrinkles with flat hands rather than pinching.
- Use the waistband to pull the top up to your waist with slow, gentle movements.
Take them off gently
Many tights that are designed to be worn more than once should be taken off and put on with as much care as possible. When taking off tights of this type, roll them down rather than pulling at the toes to avoid stretching and weakening the fabric.
Wash them carefully
Many tights can be damaged by washing. Hand washing in lukewarm water with mild detergent is gentlest. If you need to wash your tights in a machine, place them in a mesh laundry bag and wash on a delicate or cool wash cycle away from zips, hooks and other heavy articles such as jeans. Do not use fabric softener as some fibres can be weakened by it.
Dry tights flat or hang over a rail away from direct heat. Do not dry in a tumble dryer or against a radiator as this can damage the elastic.
Store them well
Keep your tights folded or loosely rolled up in a drawer or in a fabric pouch, away from anything rough. Try to keep each pair separate from the others to prevent them from getting tangled up with each other and snagging on each other.
Care guide at a glance
| Do | Avoid |
|---|---|
| Remove rings and bracelets first | Pulling tights on in a hurry |
| Wash by hand or in a mesh bag | Washing with zips and hooks |
| Dry flat or on a rail | Tumble dryers and radiators |
| Store folded or rolled | Loose in a drawer with jewellery |
Frequently asked questions
How can I stop a ladder spreading?
A small application of clear nail varnish or hairspray to each end of a small ladder or snag can help stop it from running further. This is a temporary repair to get you through the day rather than a long-term fix.
Are thicker tights more durable?
Generally, yes. Tights with a higher denier are made with thicker yarn and are usually more resistant to ladders than sheer tights, although they can still snag on jewellery and rough nails.
Where to go next
Planning an outfit for a big night? See our look at prom dress trends.
With a little care, your favourite tights can last far longer, saving you money and hassle.
