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Tights are a must-have item in any women’s wardrobe. They cover the legs beautifully to create a flawless look and a lovely silhouette. And since many of them come in a variety of styles, textures, colors, and patterns, they can also help transform average-looking outfits into stylish ensembles in an instant. It’s no wonder even celebrities rely on tights and hosiery to create a polished and put-together look. From classic sheer tights to fashion tights, these staples undoubtedly offer countless benefits, but with one slight drawback—they can be prone to runs.
If you wear tights and hosiery often, you’ve probably encountered this issue more than enough times. Perhaps you pulled them so hard that your nails caused a small tear. Or maybe you sat on a wooden bench and a splinter snagged your tights. Such incidents are sometimes unavoidable, but they don’t have to ruin your day or your delicate garment completely. If you know how to fix runs as soon as they start, you’ll be able to prevent them from turning into bigger headaches.
If you want to learn how to deal with accidental runs and snags, read on. This piece will offer quick tips to address such issues. And since prevention is better than a cure, we will also offer several strategies to keep your favorite tights and hosiery from ripping and laddering.
Mishaps that can lead to runs and tears on your tights or hosiery can happen no matter how careful you are. Fortunately, you can try a couple of quick fixes to mend the problem at the onset. When the unthinkable happens and you notice a run on your premium sheer pantyhose or another garment, consider the following tips:
The most recommended method to stop a run on a pair of tights or hosiery garment is by applying clear nail polish on the damaged part of the fabric. Because this product hardens and dries quickly, it is effective in preventing the run from continuing. All you need to do is brush a thin coat of nail polish on the edges of the run. You may want to gently tug your tights away from your skin as you do so. Allow the nail polish to dry, and you are all set.
Using hairspray is another easy way to deal with runs. Just spray this hair product on the damaged area, let it dry, and you are done! Essentially, the hairspray bonds the fibers of the tights or hosiery garment together, preventingthem from flaring out further.
If you’re on the go and can’t get a hold of clear nail polish or hairspray, your best bet is to go to a public restroom to get a bit of liquid soap. This product can also temporarily stop a run because it tends to harden as it dries. Simply rub a small amount of liquid soap all around the run. When the soap dries and hardens, it will act as a barrier to prevent the run from getting worse—at least until you get home to use nail polish as a more permanent solution. You can also use a slightly wet bar of soap for this.
Without a doubt, learning how to deal with accidental rips, tears, or snags is helpful, especially for someone who enjoys wearing tights or hosiery all the time. However, it is always better to prevent such issues from happening in the first place. Here are several ways you can avoid runs altogether:
When shopping for tights, you may want to choose styles with a higher denier count, like opaque tights, as they have a tighter, heavier weave. That also means they are sturdier, more resilient, and less likely to ladder or tear. You may also want pairs with reinforced seams on the toes because they are less prone to ripping or developing holes, even if they rub against the inside of your shoes.
Avoid excessive pulling and tugging that can cause rips and tears by wearing the right size of tights or hosiery garments. Make sure to check the size chart before buying. And if you are in-between sizes, always go for the bigger size so they won’t be too tight.
Tights and hosiery can be delicate, so you need to handle them the right way. For starters, be sure to trim your nails evenly and to file them before putting on your garments. You should also take off your rings, bracelets, and other accessories that can get caught in the fabric. More importantly, avoid sticking your toes carelessly into your hosiery. Scrunch the tights up from hip to toe so that you have better control when sliding this delicate garment up your legs.
Strengthen the fibers of your new tights to make them less prone to runs and rips by freezing them before use. Wet the hosiery with water after opening, wring them gently, and place them in a plastic bag. Put the bag inside the freezer and leave it overnight. Allow your tights to thaw the following day at room temperature. You can wear them once they are dry.
Maintain the integrity of the fabric for a long time by hand washing your tights and hosiery. Use only a mild soap and lay the garment flat when drying to keep its shape. If you must use the washer, be sure to put the tights inside a laundry bag for protection. Use the gentlest cycle and skip the dryer.
Wearing tights and hosiery is a simple way to elevate your outfit and create a more polished look. Unfortunately, they are often made of delicate materials that are prone to snags, rips, and tears. Be ready to handle accidental hosiery runs with the aid of simple products like clear nail polish, hairspray, and liquid soap. Better yet, keep your tights in good condition for longer by observing the simple strategies mentioned above.
