How to Care for Your Socks to Make Them Last Longer

Quick answer

Wash socks inside out in cold water on a gentle cycle, then air-dry them flat to protect fibers and elastic. This routine prevents pilling, fading, and premature holes.

Step-by-step sock care routine

1. Turn socks inside out before washing: This exposes the surface that touches your foot and traps lint, dirt, and dead skin. It also protects the outer fabric from abrasion against other clothes. Check for any loose threads or small holes before washing to avoid them growing larger.
2. Use cold water and a gentle cycle: Hot water breaks down elastic fibers and can shrink natural fibers like cotton. Cold water preserves stretch and color. Select the delicate or hand-wash cycle on your machine. Skip fabric softener—it coats fibers and reduces moisture-wicking and elasticity.
3. Air-dry flat, never in the dryer: Dryer heat is the fastest way to ruin sock elastic and cause shrinkage. Lay socks flat on a drying rack or towel away from direct sunlight. For no-show socks, reshape the heel pocket and toe seam while damp. If you must use a dryer, select the lowest no-heat or air-fluff setting and remove socks while still slightly damp.

Products that benefit from proper care

• Super No Show Socks 6-Pack: Made with rayon from bamboo, these socks are incredibly soft and designed to stay in place. Bamboo rayon is naturally delicate; cold water and low heat keep the fibers from breaking down and the silicone grip from peeling.

  

• Texture Mesh Roll Up Top Crew Socks 6-Pack: Made with cotton and feature a woven mesh pattern for breathability. Cotton crew socks can shrink or lose their mesh texture in hot water, so a cool wash preserves both fit and the ventilated weave.