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How to care for socks
Simple washing, drying, storing and mending habits that keep socks comfortable and help them last much longer.
Washing and drying by type
| Sock type | Washing | Drying |
|---|---|---|
| Everyday cotton blends | Cool or warm wash, inside out | Air-dry or low dryer |
| Merino wool | Cool wool cycle or hand-wash, mild detergent | Air-dry flat; no high heat |
| Sport and technical | Cool wash, no fabric softener | Air-dry to protect wicking fibres |
| Hand-knitted wool | Hand-wash in cool water, gently squeeze | Dry flat on a towel; reshape while damp |
Always check the care label first. Check your routine with the sock care checker.
Small habits
Habits that make socks last
- Wash inside out to protect the outside from pilling.
- Use a mesh bag so pairs stay together and don’t tangle.
- Skip fabric softener on sport socks; it clogs wicking fibres.
- Keep toenails trimmed to prevent holes at the toe.
- Store folded, not balled, so cuffs keep their stretch.
- Mend small holes early with simple darning before they grow.
Simple darning in five steps
1. Prepare
Slip a darning mushroom, lightbulb-shaped object or small ball inside the sock under the hole.
2. Outline
Sew a running stitch around the hole, a few millimetres into the healthy fabric.
3. Warp
Stitch parallel lines across the hole from one side of the outline to the other.
4. Weave
Weave over and under those lines in the opposite direction to form a little patch.
5. Finish
Weave the tail into the inside of the sock and trim. Choose a contrast yarn for visible mending.
Tip
Use yarn of a similar weight to the sock so the repair feels smooth inside your shoe.