Good quality tights can last for years, as long as you know how to look after them correctly. Even sheer tights, which are delicate, can be used time and time again if you know how to care for your hosiery.
Washing
You might throw your tights in with a general wash, but it’s worth taking the time to hand wash and use a specialised detergent. Regular laundry detergent may be good for getting rid of tough stains, but it can be too harsh for gossamer fabrics, so it’s best to handwash with a delicate detergent. Some people advise washing new tights in cold water before you wear them, even adding a little liquid starch.
If you haven’t got the time to hand wash, invest in a hosiery wash bag, which will protect them in the washing machine as they won’t get tossed and turned around as much. You can also use an old pillowcase.
Hairspray
Spraying your tights with hairspray once they’re on your legs may seem weird, but it can help reinforce the fibres. Another slightly odd tip is to put your tights in a bag after washing them in cold water and pop them in the freezer for a day. Once defrosted, they should last longer.
Invest in quality tights
It goes without saying that buying better quality tights means they will last longer if you look after them correctly. And the higher the denier, the better the quality will be, so look for 80 denier tights.
Many tights available these days, such as the ones found at suppliers like //www.bettertights.com/collections/80-denier-tights, contain modern, technologically-advanced materials which provide comfort and longevity. Look for tights which have reinforced waistbands and toes that are less likely to develop holes.
Hosiery Gloves
Who hasn’t put on their tights and caught them on a fingernail? Using hosiery gloves can avoid this as they keep the gossamer fabric away from rough skin and fingernails. If you use body moisturiser, make sure it is completely absorbed and your skin is dry before putting on your tights.