Useful recommendations on how to wash an elastic bandage so that it does not lose its properties

A dressing material such as an elastic bandage has a long service life, which is what makes it different from gauze.

Therefore, due to frequent use, it needs proper care. This is especially true for washing. Otherwise, it quickly loses its original properties and becomes unusable.

In this article we will tell you whether and how to properly wash an elastic bandage in a washing machine and by hand.

Can they be washed?

Compression elastic bandage is a stretchable tape designed for fixing bandages and joints in case of ligament injury:

• stretching,
• dislocation,
• rupture.

In addition, it is used for varicose veins to evenly distribute pressure on the legs. According to the type of material, it can be synthetic and cotton.. The first option is mainly used by athletes because it is stronger and wears less.

These bandages are easier to wash and dry. But they are not designed for long-term wear. On an ongoing basis, it is better to use the second option, since cotton does not cause skin irritation during prolonged contact.

Synthetic made from rubber, polyurethane or paper. To give products elasticity, the fabric composition includes:

• latex,
• lycra,
• rubber.

A more accurate composition can be found on the label. If the doctor has prescribed constant wearing of a bandage, then it is preferable to choose one with a cotton base.

The rubber structure of elastic bandages allows them to be used for a long period, subject to proper washing. It is advisable to wash such products by hand. Machine washable, but at low temperature, on delicate cycle and without spin.

Such bandages become unusable when exposed to high temperatures, so they cannot be ironed or washed at high temperatures. Boiling is also not allowed.

Selection of detergents

You should be especially careful when choosing detergents for washing. You should only use those specifically designed for this purpose - regular washing powder will not work.

This is due to the following reasons:

• the powder partially remains in the fabric fibers without being completely washed out due to the low-temperature washing mode;
• the presence of aggressive elements in the composition that have a destructive effect on rubber.

As a result, the bandage loses its elasticity and can no longer be used for its intended purpose.

True, when washing in an automatic machine, it is permissible to add a little regular washing powder. But with the manual washing method it is necessary to choose softer and environmentally friendly detergent compositions – gel-like and liquid. Laundry soap will also work.

If you are prone to allergies, it is recommended to use high-quality, expensive detergents and rinse aids. To completely remove chemicals from the fabric, soak the bandage in cold water for 2 hours before rinsing.

How to process in a washing machine?

To understand whether a bandage of a particular model can be washed in a washing machine, you need to look at the manufacturer’s tag - there are care recommendations there.

Only a number of conditions must be observed:

1. Before putting it into the drum, the bandage is rolled into a spool and placed in a special mesh bag for washing. You cannot put it in disassembled or crumpled form.
2. Set the “Delicate” or “Hand Wash” mode and the temperature to no more than 30? C. This is so that the bandage does not lose its original characteristics.
3. Liquid detergent is poured into the cuvette so as not to harm the fabric structure. In addition, it removes dirt better and is completely washed out when rinsing. Adding air conditioners is not recommended.

If the “Spin” function is available, it is immediately disabled. Otherwise, this will lead to stretching and tearing of the rubber threads in the fabric. Do not put an elastic bandage in the washing machine with other things.

The video will show you how to wash an elastic bandage in a washing machine:

How to properly wash by hand?

To prolong the life of the elastic bandage, it is important to wash it correctly. It is preferable to do this manually.

A number of points are taken into account:

• pre-soak the product in a soap solution and wait 10-15 minutes;
• wash exclusively in cool water - approximate temperature 30-40? C;
• It is not advisable to use standard powders, conditioners and other water softening agents;
• Do not rub the bandage too hard in your hands so as not to damage the elastic structure of the material;
• when rinsing, the product is not stretched or twisted so that it does not become deformed;
• You can’t twist it too much when squeezing – just squeeze it lightly in your hand.

To remove excess moisture from the bandage, they do not hang it on a rope, but act differently: place it in a towel and squeeze it.

Possible mistakes and ways to avoid them

Common mistakes when washing elastic bandage:

1. Often subjected to laundering. It is recommended to do this as it gets dirty, without once again exposing the fragile structure of the fabric to the aggressive effects of chemical detergents. But you also shouldn’t delay washing, which will lead to drying out and breaking of the rubber threads.
2. Use hot water for washing or soaking. The optimal water temperature should be within 30-40? C.
3. Use loose powders and rinses.
4. Pre-soap the bandage. This should not be done, but it is better to first dissolve the detergent composition in water and foam it.
5. They rub the fabric too intensely when washing, and then wring it out by twisting it.
6. Machine wash on normal cycle followed by spinning at high speed.

How to correct the consequences of improper cleaning?

The standard service life of an elastic bandage is 5-6 months. But if washed incorrectly, it can quickly lose its original characteristics.

This happens as a result:

• loss of tissue density;
• rubber rupture, which leads to loss of elasticity;
• changes in presentation.

In such a situation, the product can no longer be used for medicinal purposes. It is unacceptable to apply a bandage that has lost the required extensibility.

This can lead to constriction of blood vessels and cause a blockage of tissue nutrition. This will not only have no preventive effect, but will also lead to serious pathology. Since the bandage cannot be restored, they purchase a new one.

If the care instructions have been followed, but the bandage has deteriorated after the first wash, then it is recommended to change the brand in the future.

How to dry?

After rinsing, the product should not be twisted to allow water to drain out of it.. You should also avoid ironing it with a hot iron to speed up the drying process.

As already mentioned, it is unacceptable to dry the elastic bandage in direct sunlight or on heating devices. They also don’t hang it on a clothesline, otherwise it will stretch under the weight of the water.

You will find maximum useful information about washing clothes and various fabric products Here.

Conclusion

These simple washing methods can be applied to various compression garments. (bandages, belts, corsets, tights, knee socks). They are made from similar fabric. If you adhere to these basic rules, the bandage will last the period specified by the manufacturer.