A clever fashion hack is taking the internet by storm, promising to put an end to the frustration of instantly ripped and laddered tights. The simple trick involves a surprising household appliance: your freezer.
The Viral Freezer Method
Fashion enthusiast Lydia Altman shared her tried-and-tested method on TikTok, where she has over 128,600 followers. She began her video by unpacking a brand new pair of tights, stating, "If like me, your new pairs of tights last five minutes before ripped, laddered, whatever, then you need this hack."
Her process is straightforward. First, you need to rinse the new tights under cold water. After gently squeezing out the excess water so they are lightly damp but not soaking, you place them in a sealed ziplock bag. The next step is to put the bag in the freezer for 24 hours.
"And in 24 hours, you wanna take them out, and this is literally gonna completely increase the durability of the tights, and it's gonna make them last longer, and make your money go further," Lydia explained. Once frozen, you must allow the tights to defrost and return to room temperature for a few hours before wearing them.
The Science Behind Strengthening Tights
While putting clothing in the freezer may sound bizarre, experts confirm there is a scientific basis for this method. Simon Elliott, the founder and operations director of the clothing brand Clifton, provided an explanation.
He told NBC: "Freezing tights can strengthen the fibres temporarily by tightening their bonds. This process helps reinforce the fibres, reducing the risk of runs." This reinforcement makes the delicate materials found in tights, such as nylon and polyester blends, more resistant to snags and tears.
Additional Tips for Tights Care
Beyond the freezer trick, experts recommend other practices to extend the life of your hosiery. Elliot advises ensuring your legs are smooth and moisturized before putting tights on, as this allows them to slip on more easily without catching.
Handling them with care during both dressing and undressing is also crucial. For washing, he suggests placing tights in a mesh laundry bag to prevent them from getting snagged on buttons or zips from other garments in the wash.
