Hand pulling a gray bamboo knee sleeve up over the knee

How to Put On, Wash and Care for a Bamboo Knee Sleeve

A good knee sleeve can be with you for a long time if you put it on correctly and take care of it. Bamboo fabric is soft and breathable, and with a little attention it stays elastic and fresh. This article shows how to put the sleeve on and take it off, how to wash and dry it and when it is time for a new one.

How to put the sleeve on

  • sit down and roll the top end of the sleeve down so that the sleeve is half as long,
  • slip your foot through the sleeve and pull it up over the calf,
  • position the sleeve so that the knee is in the middle of it,
  • unroll the top end over the thigh and smooth out any folds,
  • bend and straighten the knee a few times to make sure nothing pinches.

Make sure the top edge does not roll up and that the fabric lies flat behind the knee. If the sleeve is very hard to pull on or leaves deep marks, read our guide to choosing the right size.

How to take the sleeve off

Do not pull the sleeve off by the top edge, because this stretches the fabric unnecessarily. It is better to roll it slowly from the top toward the ankle and slip it off over the foot. This is gentler on the fabric and easier for a sore knee.

How to wash the sleeve

  • always look at the care label first,
  • wash the sleeve in cold or lukewarm water, on a gentle cycle or by hand,
  • use a mild detergent and avoid chlorine and fabric softener, which can weaken the elastic fibers,
  • put the sleeve in a laundry net so it does not stretch or tangle with other clothes,
  • wash it regularly if you wear it every day, and always after a sweaty workout.

How to dry and store the sleeve

Dry the sleeve naturally, lying flat, away from radiators and strong sun. Do not put it in the dryer, because high heat can damage the elastic fibers and change how the sleeve fits. Before you put it on again, make sure it is completely dry. Store the sleeve flat or loosely folded in a drawer, not stretched over something. With two sleeves, you can always wear one while the other is drying. More about wearing time is in our article on how long you can wear a knee sleeve.

When it is time for a new sleeve

Even with good care, every sleeve slowly loses some of its elasticity over time. It is time for a new one when the sleeve slides down more and more often, no longer gives the familiar feeling of support, has become visibly thinner or has holes. A sleeve that fits well and keeps its shape is the one you will really enjoy wearing, day after day.

Frequently asked questions

Can I wash a bamboo knee sleeve in the washing machine?

Usually yes, on a gentle cycle in cold or lukewarm water, ideally in a laundry net. Always check the care label first.

Can I put my knee sleeve in the dryer?

It is better not to. High heat can damage the elastic fibers, so let the sleeve dry naturally, lying flat, away from radiators and strong sun.

How often should I wash my knee sleeve?

If you wear it every day, wash it regularly and always after a sweaty workout. Having two sleeves makes it easy to wear one while the other dries.

A sleeve you will actually wear

The best sleeve is the one that does not end up in a drawer. The KeenTrove Bamboo Knee Sleeve is made for exactly that:

  • soft, breathable bamboo, comfortable even in summer
  • fits snugly but does not dig in behind the knee
  • does not lock the knee, so you move naturally
  • wear it under your clothes during the day and in bed at night

With 60 days to get your money back, you have nothing to lose.

See the bamboo knee sleeve →

Note: this article is for information only and does not replace an examination by a doctor. If you have circulation problems or diabetes, or have recently had knee surgery, talk to your doctor before wearing compression.

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