How to Make Your St. Patrick’s High School Keady Wine Tights Last Longer

How to Make Your St. Patrick’s High School Keady Wine Tights Last Longer – A Practical Guide from Hugh McElvanna Menswear

For students attending St. Patrick’s High School, Keady, having the correct school uniform is an important part of daily life. Among the essentials are the wine-coloured 70 denier tights, available from Hugh McElvanna Menswear — a trusted local retailer known for quality, comfort, and service.

These tights are designed to complement the school uniform perfectly. They provide a smart, polished look while also offering warmth, coverage, and durability for everyday school wear. However, any parent or pupil will agree that tights can be one of those wardrobe items that seem to need replacing all too often. Between busy school days, playground activities, and frequent washing, even good-quality tights can start to lose their shape or develop small snags over time.

Thankfully, there’s a simple, tried-and-tested method to make your tights last up to three times longer, keeping them looking neat and lasting through the school year — the freezer trick.

💡 The Freezer Trick – A Simple Way to Strengthen Tights

It might sound unusual, but freezing your tights really does make them stronger. This handy trick works by tightening the nylon fibres that make up the fabric, helping to prevent those annoying ladders or runs from forming.

Here’s a straightforward step-by-step guide on how to do it properly:

Step 1 – Rinse Before Wearing

When you bring home a new pair of tights — whether they’re the St. Patrick’s High School Keady wine tights or another 70 denier pair — give them a gentle rinse in cold water before wearing them. This helps prepare the fibres by slightly tightening them, giving the fabric more resilience right from the start.

Make sure you handle the tights carefully during this stage. Avoid wringing or twisting them, as that can stretch or weaken the material before you even begin.

Step 2 – Freeze for 24 Hours

Once rinsed, carefully place your tights back into the bag they came in, or use any freezer-safe plastic bag if the original isn’t available. Ensure the bag is sealed tightly to keep moisture out, then place it in your freezer for a full 24 hours.

The extreme cold causes the nylon fibres to contract and harden slightly, making them more resistant to pulls and tears. Think of it as a little strengthening workout for the material — simple, but surprisingly effective.

Step 3 – Thaw and Rinse Again

After a day in the freezer, remove the tights and let them thaw naturally back to room temperature. Avoid applying heat or placing them on a radiator to speed up the process. Once they’ve returned to normal, rinse them once again in cold water to help the fibres relax into their new, stronger structure.

Step 4 – Dry Naturally

Finally, allow your tights to air dry naturally. Hang them over a towel rail or lay them flat on a clean surface. Avoid using a tumble dryer or hanging them directly on a radiator, as high heat can weaken the elastic fibres and undo some of the strengthening you’ve just achieved.

Once dry, your tights are ready to wear — and you’ll notice the difference. They’ll feel just as soft and comfortable but will be far less prone to runs, snags, or sagging.

👗 Why Choose 70 Denier Tights?

When selecting school tights, denier refers to the thickness of the fabric. A 70 denier tight is an excellent choice for schoolwear for several reasons:

1. Durability:
   Thicker tights like these are built to last. They’re far more resistant to tears and holes compared to lighter, sheerer pairs.

2. Comfort and Warmth:
   Ideal for the cooler Irish months, 70 denier tights offer a layer of warmth without being heavy or uncomfortable.

3. Smart Appearance:
   The wine colour of the St. Patrick’s High School Keady tights gives a neat, uniform look that’s both practical and stylish. The opacity also means they provide full coverage, perfect for school settings.

4. Versatility:
   Though these tights are specific to the school uniform, 70 denier tights in general are a staple for anyone’s wardrobe — offering the right balance of coverage and comfort for everyday wear.

🧺 How to Care for Your Tights

Freezing your tights once will help them start stronger, but proper care will ensure they continue to last through the term and beyond. Here are some simple but effective tips for looking after your school tights:

• Hand Wash When Possible:
  Hand washing in cold water is always the best way to extend the life of your tights. It prevents the elastic from weakening and helps the fibres retain their shape.

• Use a Gentle Cycle:
  If you must use a washing machine, place your tights in a mesh laundry bag and choose a delicate or cool wash cycle. This helps protect them from snagging on zips or buttons from other clothes.

• Avoid Fabric Softeners:
  It might seem like a good idea to make your tights softer, but fabric softeners can actually break down the elastic and cause them to lose their stretch.

• Dry Flat and Naturally:
  Always allow your tights to air dry. Avoid tumble dryers or hanging them directly over heat, as this can damage the fibres.

• Handle with Care:
  When putting on tights, ensure your nails are smooth and avoid jewellery that might catch. Gather the tights gently at the toes and roll them up slowly rather than pulling them quickly up the leg.

🧦 A Small Effort That Saves Time and Money

By following these simple steps, you’ll be surprised how much longer your school tights last. Instead of constantly replacing pairs due to small holes or runs, you can keep them in good condition right through the school year.

Not only is this better for your budget, but it’s also better for the environment — fewer tights going to waste means less textile waste overall.

The freezer trick works on any 70 denier tights, so even beyond schoolwear, it’s a handy tip for anyone who wears tights regularly, whether for work, events, or day-to-day outfits.

🏫 Available Locally at Hugh McElvanna Menswear

At Hugh McElvanna Menswear, we understand the importance of reliable schoolwear that stands up to daily use. Our St. Patrick’s High School Keady wine tights are carefully selected for quality, comfort, and durability, helping students feel confident and comfortable throughout the school day.

We also stock a full range of approved school uniforms, including skirts, trousers, jumpers, and shirts — everything you need for a complete, long-lasting school outfit.

If you’re local to Keady or nearby areas, call into our store or browse our range online at www.hughmcelvannamenswear.com for all your schoolwear needs.

✨ In Summary

The St. Patrick’s High School Keady 70 denier wine tights from Hugh McElvanna Menswear are a dependable, high-quality option that offer warmth, comfort, and style. With a little extra care — including the freezer strengthening trick — you can make them last significantly longer, saving both time and money.

So next time you pick up a new pair, remember:
Rinse. Freeze. Rinse again. Dry naturally.
It’s a simple process that makes a real difference, keeping your tights stronger for the school year ahead.