Tips for Putting On and Taking Off Compression Stockings

June 1, 2022

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Proper donning of your compression stockings is important for the effectiveness of the garment, as well as your comfort. At the same time, proper donning and doffing can help your stockings last longer. We want to help make this process as easy as possible for you. We have compiled a list of resources and tutorials to help walk you through some of the easiest ways to get your stockings on struggle-free!

The first thing to remember is that -yes- they are going to be tight. It may be difficult to get the garment over your heel or ankle, but don't let this deter you! This tightness is what makes the stocking medically effective. There are some tips to make the process less of an ordeal and more of an easy routine. Here are some key points to start with:

Put your stockings on first thing in the morning.

Or whenever you're about to start your day. Your legs will be the least swollen right before you get out of bed. Gravity pulls fluid down into your legs, so be sure to put your compression stockings on first thing. If you have already gotten up and started your day, try lying back down for a little while, or sit with your legs elevated.

Use powder to make the slide smoother.

Sometimes your skin is too moist or too dry. You can use talcum powder or cornstarch to help your compression stockings slide on far more easily. Cooper Medical Supplies can also provide you with specialized powders designed for compression stocking donning.

Use gloves.

Use special gloves designed to help you grip the garment and bring it up your leg. This will also prevent you from creating holes in your stockings with your fingernails or jewelry.

Start by putting the stocking over your toes, then heel, then work it up your leg.

Try not to 'roll' your stockings to put them on. Instead, try turning them inside out, either half-way, or fully. An open-toed stocking may need to be held in place at the bottom while pulling it all the way up. Make sure it’s straight, and the heel is in the right place. Never fold the top edge down.

Smooth out any wrinkles from the bottom up.

It's important that your stockings don't have wrinkles in them, as that can be harmful to your legs. Do not tug on your stocking to remove the wrinkles, you may damage it. It is easier to take a badly twisted or wrinkled stocking off and start over. Practice makes perfect!

Take things off in reverse.

Doffing the compression stocking is like rewinding the donning process. It is okay to start by pulling the top band down, then stroke downward with flat hands as the sock folds over itself. Pull it over your heel, then off.

Practice, look into donning and doffing aids, and don't get discouraged.

Practice putting on and taking off your compression stockings. It isn't always going to be easy right away, but the benefits will be worth the learning hurdle. If you are still struggling with donning and doffing your stockings, there are many aids that can be used to make the process even easier. We'll cover them in depth below, but some of these options include gloves, helpers, Doff n'donners, Sim-slides, and more.

Here are some great basic tutorial videos from the Sigvaris Group on Donning and Doffing different stockings.

Here are some videos from the Sigvaris Group showcasing some of the products available to help ease the Donning and Doffing of your compression stockings. We have all of these product and more available at Cooper Medical Supplies to help you with your stocking routine.

No matter the level of compression, we strive to create a comfortable experience for you and your donning process. Let us help you find the right tools and tricks to get you comfortable in your daily compression routine!

Tips for Putting On and Taking Off Compression Stockings

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