How to Wash Socks

Why Sock Care Matters More Than You Think

Socks take a beating every day — absorbing sweat, friction, and bacteria from your feet. Washing them correctly not only keeps them hygienic but also preserves their elasticity and prevents the dreaded stretched-out, thin-soled sock that loses its shape after a few months.

Step 1: Sort Socks Before Washing

Sort socks by fabric type and color:

• White athletic socks: Wash with whites in warm or hot water
• Dark or colored socks: Wash with darks in cold water
• Wool or cashmere socks: Wash separately on a delicate cycle or hand wash
• Compression socks: Hand wash or delicate cycle in cold water to preserve elasticity

Step 2: Keep Pairs Together

The easiest way to never lose a sock again: use a mesh sock laundry bag. Clip or place pairs together inside the bag before washing — they go in together and come out together. No more single socks.

Step 3: Turn Socks Inside Out

Turning socks inside out before washing exposes the interior surface — where sweat, dead skin, and bacteria actually accumulate — directly to the detergent and water. This results in a much more thorough clean.

Step 4: Use the Right Water Temperature

• Cotton athletic socks: Warm water (104°F / 40°C) for effective cleaning
• White socks: Hot water (up to 140°F / 60°C) to kill bacteria and brighten
• Wool or delicate socks: Cold water to prevent shrinking
• Synthetic or moisture-wicking socks: Cold or warm water

Step 5: Add a Laundry Sanitizer for Odor Control

If your socks tend to hold onto odors even after washing, add Lysol Laundry Sanitizer to the rinse cycle. It kills 99.9% of odor-causing bacteria without bleach — safe for all sock fabrics including athletic and wool blends.

Step 6: Dry Properly

• Cotton socks: Tumble dry on medium heat or air dry
• Wool socks: Always lay flat to dry — never hang or tumble dry, as heat and gravity will stretch them
• Compression socks: Air dry only to preserve the compression fibers

Make sure socks are completely dry before storing — damp socks in a drawer develop mildew and odor quickly.

Quick Tips for Fresh, Long-Lasting Socks

• Wash socks after every wear — bacteria multiply fast in warm, moist environments
• Don't overload the washing machine — socks need room to rinse properly
• Avoid fabric softener on athletic socks — it reduces moisture-wicking performance
• Replace socks when the heel or toe area thins out — worn fabric harbors more bacteria

Recommended Products

• Mesh Laundry Bags for Socks (5-Pack with S Hooks) — keep pairs together and prevent lost socks
• Lysol Laundry Sanitizer — eliminate odor-causing bacteria even in cold water