Socks for slippers and underfloor heating

Short answer: At home most people walk around either in socks or in slippers. With underfloor heating your feet warm up quickly, and then a thin sock that moves moisture away is better than a thick one that holds on to it.

Underfloor heating

With underfloor heating the warmth comes from below, straight into the sole of the foot. A thick sock holds on to both heat and moisture, so the foot gets clammy during the day. A thin sock that moves moisture away from the skin feels better. See bamboo socks for women.

Wear on the sole

If you walk around in socks all day, the sole rubs directly against the floor instead of against an insole. It wears most under the heel and the ball of the foot. So expect a shorter life than for socks worn in shoes, and check the sole before a hole appears.

Slippery floors

A thin sock on a smooth wooden floor or tiles can be slippery, especially on the stairs. If you walk around a lot in socks, take care on the steps, or wear slippers with a non slip sole when you go up and down.

Slippers

In closed slippers the feet get damp, because air cannot get in and it is often warm already. Change your socks daily, even if you have not been outside. Open slippers give more air around the foot if you have underfloor heating.

For men

If your feet sweat easily, a thin sock matters even more on a warm floor. The same advice applies: a thin sock, a daily change and air around the foot. See the matching models in bamboo socks for men.

In winter

If the floor is cold because you have no underfloor heating, two thin layers keep the warmth in better than one thick one. The air between the layers insulates, and you can take one off if it gets too warm. Slippers on top also help against the cold from the floor.

In summer

When the house is warm in summer, it is tempting to go barefoot, but a thin sock keeps your feet dry and the floor cleaner. It takes the moisture from the sole of the foot, so you do not leave marks on a lacquered floor.

See the range

At home comfort is what counts, and many people have a few pairs of socks they only wear indoors. Choose a thin, soft model that does not squeeze at the leg when you sit on the sofa. See the full range in all bamboo socks for women.

How many pairs you need

If you change socks daily, both out and at home, you use more pairs than you might expect. A few extra pairs for indoor use mean that your best socks for shoes wear less, and that you always have a clean pair ready.

Washing

Socks worn at home pick up dust and dirt from the floor, especially under the sole. Wash them at 40 degrees inside out and let them air dry, so the sole lasts longer. The rest of the rules are in the washing guide.

Frequently asked questions

Are thick socks best with underfloor heating?

No. A thick sock holds on to heat and moisture, so the foot gets clammy. A thin sock that moves moisture away feels better on a warm floor.

Do socks wear out faster at home?

Yes, if you walk around in socks without shoes. The sole rubs directly against the floor, especially under the heel and the ball of the foot, so they last less long.