Why socks turn hard in the wash

Short answer: Socks turn stiff from limescale in the water and from detergent residue. The answer is to dose according to the hardness of the water and to drop the fabric softener.

Limescale

In hard water, limescale settles on the fibres and makes the fabric stiff. Dose by the hardness of the water instead of using more detergent.

Too much detergent

Surplus detergent is not rinsed out and settles as a film. See how to dose detergent correctly.

Fabric softener

Fabric softener makes the surface soft but closes the fibres and reduces the ability to move moisture. See fabric softener and bamboo.

Shake them out

Shake the socks before hanging them up. That makes the fabric softer as it dries.

Drying

Air drying with air around them gives a softer result than a radiator. See how to dry bamboo clothing.

See the range

See the models in all bamboo socks for women.

See also

The rest of the rules are in the washing guide.

New socks

New socks can feel a little stiff for the first couple of washes, because residue from production is still in the fabric. That disappears by itself. See all bamboo socks for men.

Frequently asked questions

Why do the socks turn stiff?

From limescale in the water and detergent residue.

Does fabric softener help?

It feels softer, but the sock moves moisture less well afterwards.

What makes the biggest difference?

Correct dosage and air drying with air around them.