Sock Care
Socks take more washing than almost anything else in the wardrobe, and the wrong care shrinks wool and wrecks elastic. This hub explains how to wash, dry and store socks so they keep their fit and last longer.
Washing
Washing Socks
How to wash everyday socks without wearing them out.
What it is
Most cotton and synthetic socks wash well at 30 to 40 degrees on a normal cycle, turned inside out.
Why it matters
Cooler washes protect the elastic and colour, and turning inside out keeps the footbed and branding cleaner.
Wool Sock Care
Gentle washing that protects merino and wool socks.
What it is
Wool and merino socks need a cool, gentle or wool cycle with a wool-safe detergent and no fabric softener.
Why it matters
Hot water and agitation felt and shrink wool, so gentle care is what keeps premium socks fitting.
Avoiding Shrinkage
Keeping natural-fibre socks from shrinking in the wash.
What it is
Shrinkage is avoided by washing cool, skipping the tumble dryer and never using very hot water on wool or cotton.
Why it matters
A shrunk sock never recovers its fit, so temperature control is the single biggest care factor.
Drying and shape
Drying Socks
Air-drying to protect elastic and shape.
What it is
Socks dry best laid flat or hung, away from direct heat, rather than on a hot radiator or high tumble dry.
Why it matters
High heat degrades elastane, which is what makes old socks go slack and slip down.
Reshaping Socks
Smoothing socks back into shape after washing.
What it is
Reshaping means gently pulling a damp sock back to its natural shape before it dries.
Why it matters
It keeps the cuff and foot neat, especially for wool socks that can distort if dried crumpled.
Storage and longevity
Pilling
The small bobbles that form on worn socks.
What it is
Pilling is the tangling of loose fibres into little balls, most common on softer cotton and wool blends.
Why it matters
Washing inside out and avoiding rough loads reduces it, keeping socks looking newer for longer.
Elastic Care
Protecting the stretch that keeps socks up.
What it is
Elastic care means avoiding high heat and harsh detergents that break down the elastane in the cuff and arch.
Why it matters
The elastic is what gives a sock its hold, so protecting it directly extends the sock's useful life.
Sock Storage
Storing socks to keep pairs together and cuffs intact.
What it is
Socks store best folded or laid in pairs rather than stretched over each other at the cuff.
Why it matters
Stuffing one sock inside the other's cuff stretches the welt, so gentle folding keeps hold intact.
Frequently asked questions
How should I wash wool and merino socks?
Wash wool and merino socks on a cool, gentle or dedicated wool cycle with a wool-safe detergent and no fabric softener. Hot water and heavy agitation cause felting and shrinkage that a sock never recovers from.
Why do my socks go slack and slip down over time?
The elastane that gives a sock its hold breaks down under high heat, so tumble-drying on hot or drying on a hot radiator is the main cause of socks going slack. Air-drying protects the stretch.
How do I stop socks pilling?
Wash socks inside out on a gentler cycle and avoid mixing them with rough or heavy items. This reduces the fibre friction that tangles loose ends into the little bobbles called pills.