My family has used the same heirloom Christmas stockings since I can remember. Every year after Thanksgiving, we pull them out of storage and hang our beloved stockings on the fireplace, where they inevitably collect dust and dirt over the holiday season. When Christmas is over, we pack them away and put them back in storage. I decided to take it upon myself to wash the stockings this year, and I am so glad I did! Here's what I learned and how I washed our Christmas stockings.

Why You Should Wash Your Stockings

Annual cleaning of your Christmas stockings does more than just refresh their appearance — it helps preserve them for years to come. After I washed my stockings for the first time, I was amazed at how vibrant the colors were. Here’s the step-by-step guide for safely cleaning your holiday stockings to keep them looking their best.

Materials You'll Need

• HeySunday laundry sheets
• Stain remover (optional)
• Cold water
• Soft cloth or sponge
• Washing machine (for machine-washable stockings)
• Tub or basin (for hand-washing)
• Drying rack or towel

Step 1: Check the Care Label

Before you start washing your Christmas stockings, always check the care label on your stockings. Different materials require different cleaning methods. If there’s no care label, proceed carefully to prevent damage. Common materials include:

• Cotton: Machine washable
• Wool: Hand wash or dry clean
• Felt or Polyester: Usually machine washable but check for specific instructions

Step 2: Inspect Your Stockings

Before washing, carefully inspect your stockings for loose sequins or beads, embroidery, delicate trim or ribbon. If decorations are sewn on securely, they can typically be washed carefully. For loose or glued decorations, spot clean around them or consider dry cleaning. 

Step 3: Spot Clean Stains

If you notice stains on your stockings, treat them before washing:

1. Apply Stain Remover: Use a gentle stain remover on the affected area. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes.
2. Blot with a Cloth: Using a soft cloth or sponge, gently blot the stain. Avoid rubbing, which can spread the stain.

Step 4: Choose Your Washing Method

Machine Washing

If your stockings are machine washable:

1. Use a Mesh Bag: Place your stockings in a mesh laundry bag to protect them during the wash cycle.
2. Select a Gentle Cycle: Use a cold water setting and a gentle cycle to prevent wear and tear.
3. Add Detergent: Use ½ a HeySunday laundry sheet in the cycle. 

Hand Washing

For delicate fabrics or if you're unsure:

1. Fill a Basin with Cold Water: Add ½ a HeySunday laundry sheet and mix until sudsy.
2. Submerge the Stockings: Gently agitate the water and allow the stockings to soak for about 10-15 minutes.
3. Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the stockings under cold running water until all detergent is removed.

Step 5: Dry Your Stockings

After washing, it’s important to properly dry your stockings to maintain their shape and fabric integrity.

• Avoid Heat: Never use a dryer, as heat can shrink or damage the fabric.
• Lay Flat to Dry: Place the stockings on a clean, dry towel and reshape them. Allow them to air dry on a drying rack or flat surface away from direct sunlight.
• Avoid Hanging: You’d think you’d want to hang the stockings to dry by the fireplace (as the tradition goes…) but it actually can cause them to stretch out of shape. It’s best to lay them flat. 

Step 6: Store Carefully

Once your stockings are clean and dry, store them properly to keep them in great condition for next year:

• Fold Neatly: Store them folded rather than hung to avoid stretching.
• Use Storage Bags: Consider using breathable storage bags to keep dust away while allowing air circulation.
• Keep in a Cool, Dry Place: Avoid damp or humid areas, which can cause mildew or damage.

Conclusion

Cleaning your Christmas stockings may seem like an extra task during the busy holiday season, but it's essential for preserving these cherished decorations. By following these simple steps, your stockings will be ready to be filled with holiday cheer each year.