Your compression garment works hard for you after surgery. It holds swelling, supports your new shape and helps your skin reattach smoothly to the tissue underneath. Because it sits on your body for many hours every day, keeping it clean is not just about smell, it is about skin health and comfort.
Sweat, oils, ointments and dried lymphatic fluid all build up inside the fabric. If the garment is not washed correctly, you can end up with:
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skin irritation and rashes
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clogged pores and breakouts
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unpleasant odour
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fabric that stretches out and loses compression too early
The good news is that most fajas are easy to care for if you follow a few simple rules.
Always check your surgeon’s instructions and the care label on your garment first. If they conflict, follow the medical advice you were given for your specific case.
1. Before you wash: a few basics
Have at least two garments if possible
Washing and drying take time. Having a backup faja lets you stay in compression while the first one dries. Many surgeons recommend buying two garments for this reason.
Read the care label
Check if your garment is:
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hand wash only
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safe for a delicate machine cycle
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allowed to tumble dry on low, or air dry only
The label is written for the specific fabric mix and hooks, so it is your first reference.
Check with your surgeon about timing
Right after surgery, your garment may be in contact with drains, steri strips and fresh incisions. Ask when it is safe to remove it for washing, and whether you should have someone help you the first few times.
2. How often should you wash your compression garment
There is no single rule for everyone, but most patients do well with:
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Light daily freshening if you sweat a lot or live in a warm climate
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A proper wash every 1 to 2 days during the early, more intense swelling phase
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Less frequent washes later as drainage and sweating decrease
If you only have one garment, make your washes efficient and choose fast drying methods so you can get back into it quickly.
If your surgeon allows, wearing a thin, soft layer of cotton underwear under the garment can help keep it cleaner for longer and reduce rubbing in sensitive areas.
3. Hand washing method (safest for most fajas)
Hand washing is the gentlest way to clean compression garments and helps them keep their shape.
Step by step
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Fill a clean sink or basin with cool or lukewarm water. Avoid hot water.
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Add a small amount of mild, fragrance free detergent that is safe for delicate fabrics or sensitive skin.
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Turn the garment inside out and submerge it in the water.
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Gently swish and press the fabric. Do not twist or wring aggressively.
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Pay extra attention to areas with more sweat or product build up, such as under the bust, waist and groin.
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Rinse thoroughly in cool water until no soap remains.
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Gently press out excess water with your hands.
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Lay the garment flat on a clean towel, roll it up and press to remove more moisture.
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Reshape the garment and air dry flat or hung over a rack, away from direct heat and sun.
Avoid hanging the garment by the straps when it is very wet. The weight can stretch them out.
4. Machine washing method (only if the label allows it)
Some modern fajas can handle a delicate machine cycle. If your care label confirms this is safe, you can:
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Close all hooks and zippers so they do not snag.
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Place the garment in a mesh laundry bag to protect it.
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Use a cold or cool water delicate cycle.
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Add a small amount of mild detergent.
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Skip fabric softeners. They can coat the fibers and reduce compression.
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Use an extra rinse if your washer has that option.
Drying:
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Ideally, air dry as described above.
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If the label explicitly says low tumble dry is allowed, use the lowest heat and remove the garment while it is still slightly damp to finish air drying.
5. The best detergents and what to avoid
Your skin is already sensitive after surgery, and your garment sits very close to it. Choose products that are kind to both fabric and skin.
Better choices
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Mild, fragrance free detergents
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Products formulated for baby clothes or sensitive skin
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Small amounts of detergent rather than large doses
Things to avoid
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Bleach or strong stain removers
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Fabric softeners
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Harsh powders that may not rinse out fully
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Strongly scented products that can irritate incisions and rashes
If you are prone to allergies or have very sensitive skin, you can even run an extra rinse cycle to be sure all soap is gone.
6. Drying and storing your garment
How you dry and store your faja affects both comfort and longevity.
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Let it dry completely before putting it back on. Damp compression against healing skin is not a good combination.
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Keep it away from radiators, direct sun and hairdryers. High heat can damage elastic fibers.
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Store the garment flat or gently folded when you are not wearing it. Avoid tight rolls that crease the fabric.
If you need to get into your garment quickly and it is still a little damp in non incision areas, ask your surgeon whether that is acceptable for your situation.
7. Signs your compression garment needs to be replaced
Even with perfect care, compression garments do not last forever. You may need a new one if you notice:
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It no longer feels snug, even on the tightest hooks
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The fabric looks visibly stretched out or thin
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Straps and seams are warped or damaged
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There is a persistent odour even after washing
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You see areas where compression is strong in one spot and loose in others
Many patients also move from Stage 1 to Stage 2 garments during recovery, so expect to adjust your compression plan at least once.
8. Quick answers to common questions
Can I sleep in my garment while it is still damp?
Ideally no. Put the dry one on while the other finishes drying. Sleeping in a wet garment traps moisture and can irritate your skin.
Can I use stain remover on blood or fluid spots?
Only if your surgeon and the care label say it is safe. Use a gentle, diluted product and rinse thoroughly so nothing harsh remains in the fabric.
What if my garment smells even after washing?
Try a longer soak in cool water with mild detergent and an extra rinse. If the smell stays, it may be time to replace it.
Clean garments support better recovery
A clean, well cared for compression garment is more than a nice to have. It supports:
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healthier skin
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more consistent compression
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a more comfortable experience in a period when your body is already working hard
When your faja feels fresh and supportive, it is much easier to keep it on for the hours your surgeon recommends and to combine it with your lymphatic massage routine, recovery tools and at home care.
