Can those special hosiery detergents sold in many department stores and drugstores really make hose more run-resistant? The Institute’s Textiles and Chemistry departments compared several pairs of nylon pantyhose washed in Hosiery Mate to hose washed in Woolite, and in Ivory dish-washing liquid. After washing and drying, the pantyhose were stretched over leg forms and rubbed with sandpaper to evaluate their resistance to running, pulling, and snagging.

The results: Though all the pantyhose snagged, those washed in Hosiery Mate had fewer runs and holes than those washed in the other detergents. A chemical analysis revealed that the product contains a resin ingredient that bonds to the nylon to help make it stronger. Note: Not all products advertised as hosiery washes contain resin, so look for those that claim to “strengthen” or “fortify.”