Socks at 40 or 60 degrees, what applies
Short answer: What matters most is the care label in the sock itself, because it beats any guess. If nothing else is stated, 40 degrees is often enough for everyday socks, while 60 degrees can wear down elastic and fabric. Always wash by the label, and pick the lowest temperature that gets them clean.
Start with the label in the sock
The care instructions appear as small symbols on a label or directly on the sock. The number in the wash tub shows the highest temperature the sock can take. That does not mean you have to wash that hot, only that you should not go above it. If there is no label, choose a gentle temperature and test with a single sock first.
Why 40 degrees is often a good starting point
At 40 degrees you remove everyday dirt and sweat from the feet without exposing the fabric to too much heat. It is also a temperature at which many machines and detergents work well. If the label allows it, 40 degrees is a sensible way to keep both fabric and elastic alive for longer. Take a look at our bamboo socks for women too.
When 60 degrees makes sense
Some people choose 60 degrees when the socks have been very dirty or when someone in the household has been ill. That requires the label to allow it. The heat can make elastic and fabric lose spring faster, and the socks may shrink. Use 60 degrees only when the label says it is fine.
Sort by colour and wear
Wash dark and light socks separately so the colours do not run. Also sort by how worn they are, because an old sock can be damaged by lying together with hard things such as jeans with a zip. A net keeps the pairs together and protects them in the machine.
Turn them inside out and do not overfill
Turn the socks inside out so sweat and skin oils come into direct contact with the water. Do not fill the machine completely, because the laundry needs room to move. If it is too full, washing and rinsing get worse and the socks wear from friction. Use a gentle programme if you like.
Drying without heat
Let the socks air dry or hang them on a rack away from the radiator. The tumble dryer and strong heat can make elastic go slack and fabric shrink. Give them room so air can circulate, and gently pull them into shape while damp if they have creases.
What to do about stains and smell
If a sock is very dirty or smells, you can soak it in cold water for half an hour before washing. Use a mild soap and avoid harsh stain removers. Check that the smell is gone before you dry them, because drying can lock the smell in. Repeat the wash if needed.
Wear and fit over time
Even with good care, socks wear down over time, and the heel and toe are often the first places. Replace socks when they are thin or loose in the leg. With several pairs you can rotate between them and extend their life. See also all bamboo socks for women and bamboo underwear for women.
Frequently asked questions
May I wash socks at 60 degrees?
Only if the care label in the sock allows it. Heat wears elastic and fabric, so many people are better off at 40 degrees or lower. Always check the label first.
What if I cannot find the care label?
Choose a gentle temperature such as 30 or 40 degrees and test with a single sock first. Avoid the tumble dryer until you know how the fabric reacts.
Should socks be washed on their own?
It is not required, but sort by colour and use a net if you like, so they are not worn by clothes with zips or hooks. That also keeps the pairs together.
