Support socks are worn daily by people with circulatory conditions. They should typically be taken off at night, unless otherwise recommended by the patient's doctor. Also commonly referred to as compression stockings, it is important that they are worn without rolling down or shifting and sagging at the ankles. Otherwise, they are not are not providing the person wearing them the necessary protection. Some compression socks need to be replaced sooner that others because they wear out more quickly and don't provide the desired compressive levels. Some signs that support stockings are no longer useful is if they lose their shape, have runs or don't fit properly. In such cases, they should be replaced immediately. Compression stockings typically last between four and six months, depending on the brand and style. If they are not lasting this long, there are several ways for wearers to prolong garment's life. Here are 5 ways to make support socks last longer.

1. Washing - Different brands and materials have different care requirements. It is important to always follow the manufacturer's label recommendations to ensure the longest stocking life possible. Some support socks must be washed by hand, while others can be laundered on the delicate cycle. It is best to hang them up to dry unless the manufacturer's label specifically recommends tumbling dry. Extremely hot water or air temperatures can affect their elasticity.

2. Detergent - A washing solution made specially for compression garments helps to keep them smooth, elastic and fresh. Certain laundry detergents can ruin the fabric, so it is important to check the cleaning product's label before using it.

3. Trim Nails - Long toenails can run stockings, even those made from thick materials. Keeping nails trimmed and filed down reduces tears and punctures. It also lessens wear on the toe portion of the sock material.

4. Wear Comfortable Shoes - Footwear that is too tight causes a rubbing motion between the shoes and the socks. This wears out the compression socks faster.

5. Choose Heavier Materials - Thin and sheer styles have a shorter life span than those made of heavier materials, even though the compression grades are the same. Some users don't mind trading the fashionable colors and appearance of regular pantyhose for more frequent replacement.

6. Storage - While tucking one sock inside the other is a common storage remedy for regular knee socks and crew socks, compression stockings can lose their shape when large bulbs are folded into them for a longer period of time.