What was your merino woolen darn tough socks: the ultimate guide

How to Wash Merino Wool Socks: The Ultimate Guide

Are you standing by the laundry and wondering how to wash Merino Wool socks? Then you've come to the right place. Washing Merino Wool socks correctly is important to maintain their unique properties and extend their lifespan.

Before we dive into the details, let's look at why it matters how you wash your socks, and when you should apply this knowledge.

When Should You Wash Merino Wool Socks?

The first question you should ask yourself is whether you should wash your socks. Many people think that socks should be washed after every wear. This was my belief until I discovered Merino Wool socks.

Merino Wool: Naturally Odour Resistant

Merino Wool socks are different from regular cotton or synthetic socks because they are naturally odor-resistant. The unique properties of the wool fibers prevent sweat build-up and lock in odors. This means that Merino Wool socks stay fresher for longer, even after intensive use. So you don't have to wash them after every wear, saving money and reducing your carbon footprint.

How Often Should You Wash Your Socks?

How often you should wash your wool socks depends on how long you wear them at a time, the activity, the climate, and your own comfort level with re-wearing clothing. A good rule of thumb is to wash them after 2-3 full days of wear. Some people even wear them for a month without washing.

Why You Should Wash Your Wool Socks Differently

When it’s time to wash your Merino Wool socks, you can simply throw them in the washing machine with the rest of the laundry, but that’s not ideal. Merino Wool socks have special fibers that fight odors, are warm on cold days and cool on hot days (thermoregulation), feel soft and comfortable, and help prevent blisters. Washing your wool socks correctly helps protect these fibers, keeping them in top condition.

How to Wash Merino Wool Socks

Here are the washing instructions for Merino Wool socks. These instructions also apply to synthetic socks or compression socks.

Washing instructions for Merino Wool Socks:

1. Turn Your Socks Inside Out: Before washing your socks, turn them inside out. This is especially important for cushioned socks, which can trap dirt and debris.

2. Wash in Cold Water: Always use cold water and the gentle cycle. High temperatures can weaken fibers and fade colors. Use a laundry bag to minimize the risk of lost socks and protect your socks from chafing.

3. Use the Right Detergent: Choose a mild detergent with a neutral pH, without acids or bases, as these can weaken the sock fibres. Avoid bleach and fabric softener on Merino Wool items.

4. Line Dry or Low Temperature Dry: Line drying is environmentally friendly and can make for fun photos of your socks hanging to dry. If you want to speed up the drying time, you can put your socks in the dryer. Choose the low temperature setting.

Bonus Tip: Fold Your Socks

If you really want to take extra care of your socks, choose folding instead of rolling. Rolling socks stretches them unnecessarily, which can lead to deformation or loss of elasticity. Storing them flat or folded allows the fibers to relax naturally.

Socks Care Do's and Don'ts

Avoid:

• Dry cleaning.
• Use bleach.
• Use fabric softener.
• To smoothe.
• Washing too often.

Frequently Asked Questions about Washing Socks

How often should you wash wool socks? Merino wool socks don't need to be washed that often. You can easily wear them 2-3 times before washing them, and some people even wear them longer.

How do you wash your wool socks? Turn your socks inside out and wash them in cold water on the delicate cycle. Use a mild detergent; avoid fabric softeners and bleach.

Should you wash socks in hot or cold water? Wash your wool socks in cold water. Never use hot water as this can weaken the fibres and cause colours to fade.

Should socks be washed inside out? Yes, turn your socks inside out before washing them to clean sweat and dead skin cells from your feet.

Can you dry wool socks? Yes, you can tumble dry Merino Wool socks on low temperature. However, line drying is better for the environment.

Can you wash socks with clothes? Follow the washing instructions for your socks. If the clothes you are washing can use the same settings, you can wash them together.

Do wool socks shrink? No, Merino Wool socks are pre-washed and pre-shrunk, so they do not shrink. If they feel a little tighter after washing, it is similar to how jeans feel after washing. They will relax again with wear.

Conclusion

A little care for your socks can make a big difference. By following the tips above, you can get the most out of your Merino Wool socks and keep them clean and fresh. Don't forget to trim your toenails every now and then, but that's a conversation for another time.

The largest collection of merino wool Darn Tough socks from the Netherlands can be found here.

Are you looking for a specific detergent for your sportswear? Then look here.