Can socks be washed at 60 degrees
Short answer: It depends on the label in the sock. If it says 60 degrees, you can wash at that temperature, otherwise a lower setting is safer. High heat can wear the elastic and shape, so start by reading the label.
Start with the care label
The first thing to do is look at the label in the sock or on the packaging. The wash tub symbol shows the highest temperature the sock is made to take. If it says 60, you can wash at 60 degrees, and if it says 40, stay at 40. There is no need to guess.
Why high heat can be a problem
Hot water can wear the elastic and make socks lose their shape or shrink a little. You notice it when the cuff no longer holds on to the ankle. That is why many people wash socks at a lower temperature, so they last longer and the fabric is less likely to be damaged.
When a higher temperature makes sense
Sometimes you want socks really clean, for example after an illness or after sport. A higher temperature can then be relevant, but only if the label allows it. If in doubt, wash at the highest temperature stated and put the socks in a wash bag, so they are treated as gently as possible.
How to wash bamboo socks
Bamboo in clothing is viscose made from bamboo, and it can react differently to heat than ordinary cotton. Always follow the label and do not guess. For all bamboo socks for women the same applies as for other socks, namely that the instruction on each sock decides which temperature is right.
Sort by colour and fabric
Wash socks with clothes of the same colour and similar fabric, so they are not worn down by heavy clothes. Light and dark socks should be washed separately. Use a wash bag so the pairs stay together, and do not fill the machine completely, so water and detergent have room to circulate.
Drying without ruining the shape
After washing you can lay the socks flat or hang them in the shade. A tumble dryer on high heat can wear the elastic, so use it only if the label allows. Let the socks dry completely before putting them in the drawer, so they stay fresh.
How to keep the shape longer
The shape lasts best if you avoid pulling socks hard when you take them off and do not tie knots. Turn them inside out in the wash to protect the surface. Rotate between several pairs so the elastic can recover between uses and all of them wear evenly.
What about other clothes
The same principle applies to other basics. If you have bamboo socks for women next to other things such as period underwear, follow the instruction on each piece and wash it by its own label, instead of putting everything in the same programme.
Frequently asked questions
Can all socks be washed at 60 degrees?
No, it depends on the label in each sock. If it says 60, you can wash at 60 degrees, otherwise choose a lower temperature to protect the elastic and the shape.
What happens if I wash too hot?
The socks can lose shape, shrink or get loose elastic. Colours can also fade. So follow the label, and if in doubt choose lower rather than too high.
Should I wash very dirty socks hot?
Not necessarily. Soak them first, use a wash bag, and wash at the temperature the label allows. If that does not help, simply wash them again.
