Everything about washing, drying and maintaining socks

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Washing and drying socks correctly is essential to keep them looking great and comfortable for longer. In this blog, we share handy tips and techniques to properly care for your socks. From picking colours to choosing the right wash cycle and avoiding shrinkage in the dryer. Our tips will keep your socks looking fresh and lasting longer. Whether they’re cotton, wool or sports socks, discover how to wash, dry and care for them optimally so they feel like new every day.

  • Hoe sokken onderhouden, wassen en drogen?
  • Hoe sokken onderhouden, wassen en drogen?

How to wash, dry and care for socks properly?

  • Socks are an essential, yet often underestimated part of our wardrobe. Because they are worn daily, they deserve more attention than we often give, especially when it comes to care, washing and drying. Taking good care of them can not only extend their lifespan, but also maintain their softness and shape. In this article, we share some useful tips on washing, drying and caring for socks, for optimal results and to ensure they last a long time and stay comfortable.

Why is proper sock maintenance important?

  • Socks are exposed to friction, sweat and dirt, which can quickly lead to wear and odor problems. With the right care, you can reduce the chance of holes, get the fabric clean, protect it and maximize comfort. Plus, they stay beautiful longer and save you money in the long run.

1. Washing socks = Read and follow washing instructions

  • After your search for good and cool socks, you naturally want to keep them looking good for as long as possible. It is important that they are washed correctly. One golden tip from Julien Deluxe: read the instructions on the label or packaging before you throw your socks in the washing machine. That is what these instructions are for, to read. A second golden tip from Julien Deluxe: study the packaging of whatever you buy before throwing it in the bin. After all, it often contains useful and valuable information, such as washing instructions. You can also read the washing instructions in the product details in our online shop.

2. Washing socks = Sorting before washing

  • Before washing your socks, it is important to sort them properly. Sort them by colour (whites separate from darks) and material (wool separate from cotton). This prevents them from becoming discoloured or damaged.

    • White socks: These can fade more easily during washing, so it is best to wash them separately with a mild bleach if they are very dirty.
    • Colored socks: Use a color protection detergent to keep the colors bright for longer.
    • Wool or delicate socks: Hand wash or use a gentle cycle on low temperature.

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3. At what temperature should you wash socks?

  • Socks are an essential part of your daily outfit and often take the most wear and tear. They collect sweat, dirt and bacteria, which makes it important to wash them correctly. But at what temperature should you wash socks to keep them clean, fresh and durable? What is the best temperature to wash socks? Read all about the temperature to wash socks below.

  • Most dirty socks don't require much to get them washed clean. You can easily wash them in the washing machine. But not all socks can withstand the same washing program. Cotton and synthetic are generally more robust than wool or silk. Always use the washing label as a guideline for the best program and the number of degrees. Use a mild detergent. Do not use bleach or other aggressive products.

  • The ideal temperature for washing socks

    The temperature at which you can best wash your socks depends on the material and type of socks. Below is an overview:

  • 1. Cotton socks
    • Wash at: 30-40 degrees Celsius with a normal wash program and a normal mild detergent
    • Why: This is enough to remove dirt and bacteria without causing the fibers to wear or shrink.
    • Tip: Use a mild detergent to maintain the quality of the socks.

  • 2. Wool socks
    • Wash at: 20-30 degrees Celsius (cold wash).
    • Why: Wool is sensitive to shrinkage and damage at high temperatures. Always choose a delicate cycle or hand wash.
    • Tip: Use a special wool detergent to prevent shrinkage and for best results.

  • 3. Bamboo socks
    • Wash at: 30 degrees Celsius.
    • Why: Bamboo fibers are soft and durable, but can be damaged at excessively high temperatures.
    • Tip: Avoid fabric softener as this can reduce the breathable properties of bamboo.

  • 4. Sports socks or synthetic socks
    • Wash at: 40 degrees Celsius.
    • Why: Synthetic materials like polyester and nylon can withstand higher temperatures and often require them to remove odors and bacteria.
    • Tip: Turn socks inside out to prevent wear. Wash at a lower speed to maintain elasticity.

  • 5. Socks with prints
    • Wash at: 30 degrees Celsius.
    • Why: This temperature is sufficient to remove dirt and bacteria.
    • Tip: It is best to wash them inside out. But this actually applies to all of them. Because bacteria can cause a bad smell and this often remains in the socks, it is best to turn them inside out, so that the washing has an effect. That way you also prevent them from wearing out quickly.

  • Can you wash socks at 60 degrees?

    Why not always wash at higher temperatures? Although you may think that washing socks at 60 degrees or higher is more hygienic, this can shorten the lifespan of your socks. High temperatures can:
    • Cause shrinkage: Especially with natural fibres such as cotton and wool.
    • The colours fade: This especially happens with brightly coloured or printed socks.
    • The fibers weaken: This causes your socks to wear out faster.
    Only wash socks at 60 degrees if they are extremely dirty or if you want to disinfect them, for example after illness.

4. Washing socks = Protection during washing

  • To prevent socks from wearing out or getting lost in the washing machine, follow these tips:

    • Use laundry bags: Put your socks in a laundry bag or net to protect them from friction with other clothing. In addition, they cannot be damaged by, for example, a zipper from another piece of clothing.
    • Turn socks inside out: Turn your socks inside out to protect the outside from direct contact with detergent and friction.
    • Underload the washing machine: Avoid overloading washing machines. This gives your socks the space to be thoroughly washed without too much friction.

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5. Can socks be put in the dryer?

  • Whether socks can be tumble dried depends on the material they are made of. Remember that too much heat can cause them to shrink or lose their elasticity. Here are some guidelines:

  • 1. Cotton socks

    Cotton socks can usually be tumble dried, but it is advisable to dry them on a low temperature to prevent shrinkage. High temperatures can cause cotton to shrink and lose its elasticity.

  • 2. Wool or merino wool socks

    Do you have wool socks? Then be sure to read the washing instructions on the label or packaging before washing them. After all, wool requires a little more attention to enjoy it for a long time. Wool socks, such as merino wool, are sensitive to heat and can shrink or lose their shape in the dryer. Preferably air dry these socks or use a special wool program on your dryer.

  • 3. Synthetic socks (polyester, nylon, elastane)

    Synthetic socks can usually be tumble dried. However, it is important to use a low temperature. This prevents the fibres from being damaged or the socks from losing their elasticity.

  • 4. Bamboo socks

    Bamboo socks: These usually do not withstand high temperatures. Preferably air dry them.

  • 5. Silk socks

    Silk socks are very delicate and not suitable for the dryer.

  • General tips for drying socks in the dryer

    • Always check the label of your socks. This will give specific washing and drying instructions.
    • Use a low temperature in the dryer to prevent wear and shrinkage.
    • When in doubt, air dry the socks. This is safest and preserves the quality of the fabric.

  • General tips for air drying socks

    The best way to dry socks is to let them air dry. Even if the care label says to tumble dry, why would you do that? Just let them air dry. That way you save a little energy too.

    • Lay them flat or hang them by the fold at the heel (as they often come in the packaging) to prevent them from losing their shape.
    • Avoid direct sunlight: Direct sunlight can cause discoloration, especially with colored socks. Dry them in the shade or indoors instead.

6. Washing and maintaining socks = Extra tips

  • To enjoy your socks for as long as possible, we have some additional tips for you:

    • Treat stains immediately: Stubborn stains such as mud or grass are best treated before washing the socks. Use a mild stain remover and let it soak in for a while.
    • Use the right detergent: Choose a detergent that is suitable for the material of your socks.
    • Wash inside out: This helps to better remove dirt and bacteria and protects the outside of the sock.
    • Avoid the dryer: Air dry socks after washing to prevent shrinkage and wear.
    • Avoid ironing too hot: Most socks, especially those with an elastic band, do not do well at high temperatures. Iron them on a low temperature or, better yet, do not iron them at all.
    • Invest in quality: Cheaper socks wear out faster, while higher quality socks last longer with proper care.

7. Losing Socks = Tips to Prevent Them from Getting Lost

  • Socks sometimes seem to mysteriously disappear in the wash. Here are some tips to prevent this:

    • Use a sock basket: Store your socks in a separate basket after wearing them so they don't get lost.
    • Wash all socks together in a net: Socks have a tendency to mysteriously disappear in the washing machine. Collect them in a net and wash them all at once to prevent loss.
    • Pair them immediately: As soon as your socks come out of the dryer, pair them immediately so they don't get lost.

  • Why do socks disappear during washing?

    There is a gap between your washing machine and the drum, this gap becomes slightly larger as the drum turns. The gap is too large for larger garments but perfect for socks. When the water drains after the wash, it can be that the water drags your sock into this gap.

8. What is the best way to wash and store my socks with Sock My Feet prints?

  • These prints are printed with a specially developed Deep-Print technique. The photo print is deep in the fiber instead of on top of it. This keeps the print beautiful for a very long time and does not fade with washing, drying and wearing.

  • 1. Wash the socks at 30 degrees so that they do not shrink.

    They do consist of 70 to 75% cotton, but there is also a portion of elastic in it for stretch, and this yarn can shrink when washed too hot. That is why it is best not to wash the socks at 60 degrees. But don't worry, they also get clean at a lower temperature. Moreover, we also save the environment a little.

  • 2. Do not wash the socks together with dark colours.

    Dark clothing, such as jeans, often loses its color during washing and because cotton absorbs moisture well, it will also absorb the color, making your socks faded. And that would be a shame, right?

  • 3. Wash your socks inside out

    If there is any color in the water, it will be absorbed on the inside of the sock, where no one can see it, and not on the outside.

  • 4. Place the socks in a net before putting them in the washing machine

    This way they stay together and they can no longer be damaged by zippers from other clothing, for example. Never lose socks again! No hassle to find each pair again! Bonus tip for the daredevils: if you do lose a sock, simply combine them with another sock. You will be amazed how many socks from the Sock My Feet collection can be perfectly combined with each other!

  • 5. Let your socks air dry

    In principle they can be tumble dried, but it is better to hang them up. If you hang them flat, as they are in the packaging (so grab the 2 corners of the heel), then you have the least chance of strange stripes and folds appearing. And we save the environment a little bit.

  • 6. Lay the socks flat or roll them up

    Lay them flat, as they are in the packaging, in a dresser, or roll them up, like you would make sushi. Don't go crumpling them up and throwing them in the cupboard. A little respect for these beauties, please.

    Read our blog "How to store socks?" here

  • Caring for socks is easier than you think, but it does require some attention to ensure they retain their shape, softness and longevity. By sorting them, washing them carefully, drying them properly and maintaining them, you can ensure that your feet are always comfortable and stylish.

  • With these maintenance tips you will get the most out of your socks and ensure that they last a long time. Good luck with maintaining your socks and enjoy comfortable and sustainable foot fashion!

9. Can you wash socks together with underwear and towels?

  • Washing socks, underwear and towels together is a frequently asked question in the laundry routine. Although it is possible, there are some important points to consider to ensure hygiene and the quality of your laundry.

  • 1. Hygiene: Bacteria and odors

    Underwear often harbors more bacteria than socks or towels. Towels, on the other hand, can hold a lot of moisture and are prone to mold. Due to these different hygiene requirements, it is not ideal to wash them all together.
    What you can do:

    • Wash underwear and socks separately if you use a lower washing temperature (30-40°C).
    • Only wash them together if you can use a higher temperature (at least 60°C), which effectively kills bacteria.

  • 2. Material and washing temperature

    Socks, underwear and towels often have different materials and require different washing temperatures:
    • Socks: Often cotton, wool, or synthetic material; ideally at 30-40°C, unless heavily soiled.
    • Underwear: Usually cotton or a blend; often suitable for 40°C, but white underwear can be washed at 60°C.
    • Towels: Made from thick cotton and can often be washed at 60°C or higher for hygienic results.
    What you can do:
    • Sort by material and use the correct temperature to prevent damage and wear.

  • 3. Sorting colors

    Towels are often dark or brightly colored, while socks and underwear vary in color. Washing them together can lead to discoloration, especially if you have white socks or light underwear.
    What you can do:

    • Sort by color: Wash white and light items separately from dark or brightly colored items.
    • Use colored cloths if you want to wash everything together.

  • 4. Prevent wear and tear

    Socks and underwear are often made of finer materials than towels. Towels are heavier and can cause friction when tumbling in the washing machine, which will wear out your socks and underwear.
    What you can do:

    • Use a laundry bag for socks and underwear to protect them.
    • Avoid overcrowding the drums so that everything is washed evenly.

  • Conclusion: can you wash socks together with underwear and towels?

    Yes, it is possible, but only if you follow these tips:
    1. Sort by color and material.
    2. Wash at the correct temperature (preferably 60°C for hygiene).
    3. Protect delicate items with a laundry bag.
    However, for optimum hygiene and durability of your clothing, it is better to wash socks, underwear and towels separately. This prevents wear and keeps everything in top condition for longer.
    With these tips you can enjoy fresh, clean laundry without compromise!

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Frequently Asked Questions

  • 1. Can you wash socks at 90 degrees?

    This is not recommended unless the socks are completely white and 100% cotton. At higher temperatures you run the risk of shrinkage and wear.

  • 2. How often should you wash socks?

    After each use. Socks trap sweat and bacteria, so it is important to wash them after a day of wearing.

  • 3. Can I wash different types of socks together?

    Yes, but make sure you set the temperature and wash cycle to the most sensitive material and sort by colour.
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