We all love wearing our wool socks during the cold seasons! They provide us with softness and comfort while keeping our feet warm! So how can we keep them in good condition for as long as possible?

First of all, it's important to know that you don't have to wash them every time you wear them: by airing them out well overnight, you can wear them multiple times without worrying about freshness and odor.

Indeed, wool has a significant breathable capacity and effectively limits moisture and odors.

But when the inevitable time comes, it's essential to know how to wash wool socks properly to prevent them from deteriorating quickly.

Some types of wool can be washed in the machine, while others can only be hand washed. To be sure, refer to the label or packaging of your socks. When in doubt, hand washing is the best option.

For wool socks that are hand wash only

Use the coldest water possible. And never exceed 30°. Beyond this temperature, the heat shrinks the wool fibers and causes your socks to shrink.

  • Add a wool-specific detergent, following the quantity indicated on the bottle. If you don't have any, you can use shampoo.
  • Mix well.
  • Let your socks soak for 20 to 30 minutes.
  • Rinse your socks thoroughly under water at the same temperature as the soaking water.
  • Gently press your socks in your hands, without squeezing or twisting them too much, to avoid deforming them.
  • Lay them flat on a towel and fold it so that the socks remain flat.
  • Press firmly several times to wring them out as much as possible.

For machine washable wool socks

Turn the socks inside out or use a laundry bag. This will prevent direct contact between your socks and the drum of the machine, which damages the fibers and causes pilling and fraying.

Use the "wool" or "delicate" cycle on your machine. The selected program should allow you to wash your wool socks in water at a maximum of 30°, ideally 20°.
Also, use a wool-specific detergent, without any bleach. Do not add fabric softener.

The spin cycle should not exceed 600 revolutions per minute.

Regardless of the washing method you use, the drying of your wool socks should also be gentle to avoid altering their quality.

Never use a dryer with its too hot and forceful air that will quickly deform, shrink, and wear out your socks. Air drying is recommended for wool socks. Make sure to dry them flat rather than hanging them, so they are not stretched and deformed by the weight of the remaining water after washing.

Finally, as you have understood, wool is very sensitive to heat. It is strongly advised not to iron your socks. So, you'll have to find another activity to occupy your evenings!

Are you interested in the topic of washing socks? So are we! In fact, we have written a comprehensive article on washing socks (not just wool ones).