Tired of Ruined Tights? Here’s How to Make Every Pair Go Further

Experts say the secret to snag-free legwear starts long before you pull on a pair. From the checkout counter to the laundry room, a few small habits can make all the difference.

As the weather turns colder, tights become one of the most versatile staples for layering any outfit, and they help keep you warm, too. However, one of their biggest drawbacks is how easily they tear.

"Tights are made from highly elastic materials like nylon and polyester blends to ensure flexibility and a snug fit and these materials are delicate by nature," says Simon Elliott, the founder and operations director of the clothing brand Clifton.

"Even minor snags or overstretching can compromise their structural integrity, leading to rips," Elliott adds. That's why it's important to take care when washing, wearing, and storing your tights.

Here are a few tips to help prevent snags.

• Shop for quality: Investing in premium fabric gives your tights the best chance of lasting, so opt for natural fiber blends when possible. Lisa Hayes, fashion design program director at Drexel University, says tights with the highest Lycra content tend to last longer. She notes that they're usually more opaque, so they may not suit very dressy occasions, and that with all-synthetic pairs, a more opaque finish often means a denser, more durable fabric.
• Freeze them: It may sound ridiculous, but popping new tights in the freezer can help. "Freezing tights can strengthen the fibers temporarily by tightening their bonds," says Elliott. "This process helps reinforce the fibers, reducing the risk of runs." Rinse them in water, gently squeeze out the excess, seal them in a plastic bag, and freeze them overnight. Take them out a few hours before wearing so they can thaw to room temperature.
• Moisturize your skin: Delicate tights are more likely to snag on dry skin, so apply lotion to your legs and feet before putting them on.
• Watch your accessories: Jewelry and handbags with sharp edges can easily catch on your tights, so keep them in mind when styling your outfit.
• Wash gently: Skip the washing machine and dryer if you can. "High intensity spin cycles can stretch fabric excessively, which will weaken it," says Elliott. If you must machine wash them, use the gentle cycle with other delicates, or wash them by hand.
• Store them properly: Fold your tights loosely and store them side by side rather than stacking them. If space is limited, keep them in their own bag; even a gallon-size plastic kitchen bag will protect them.
• Keep clear nail polish handy: Even with every precaution, accidents happen. If you spot a ladder and have no time to change, dab clear nail polish on the snag right away to stop it from running further.

With a little extra care, your favorite tights can easily outlast a single season. A few mindful habits now could save you from a last-minute wardrobe emergency and an unplanned trip back to the store.