Hand washing your socks will maximize their shape and function. In this guide, we'll look at which socks need to be hand-washed, the steps for hand-washing socks and some FAQs.
Which socks must be hand-washed and avoid machine washing?
It is vital to choose the right type of wash depending on the type of socks, here are the types of socks that are hand washed and why:
| Sock type | Reasons for hand washing |
| Alpaca socks, wool socks | Both alpaca and wool fibers are prone to shrinking, distortion or loss of softness in machine washing, especially at high temperatures and under friction, which tends to damage the fibers. |
| Lace or fine lace socks | Lace and lace may be pulled or torn during machine washing, and the friction and vibration of machine washing can easily damage delicate designs. |
| Silk stockings | Silk is easy to damage, fades, shrinks or loses its luster when machine washed, and the fibers break easily. |
| Socks with embellishments (beads, sequins, embroidery) | Trims are easily dislodged or damaged during machine washing, and the spinning and friction of the washer can cause damage to trim parts. |
| High-end sports socks | The support and design parts of high-performance athletic socks are prone to deformation or failure in machine washing, especially with thickened and specialty materials. |
| Thigh-high socks or specially designed socks | Thigh-highs and uniquely designed socks are prone to distortion during machine washing, and intricate seams and designs may be pulled or damaged. |
Steps for hand washing socks
For socks made of delicate materials (e.g. alpaca socks, wool socks, etc.), hand-washing socks can extend the life of your socks, help you save more money and be environmentally sustainable. Here are the steps for hand washing socks:
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Prepare your washing materials: Choose a mild detergent and prepare a sensory sink or basin.
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Soak in cold or lukewarm water: Fill the basin with cold or lukewarm water, avoiding hot water, add the detergent to the water and agitate until it foams abundantly.Soak socks completely for 5-10 minutes.
- Wash: Gently rub the stained part of the socks, avoiding hard scrubbing. When rinsing, you need to press the socks to squeeze out the water. Wringing the socks vigorously may affect the stretching of the socks.
- Dry naturally: Alpaca socks and wool socks need to be laid flat to dry to avoid tearing the fibers by hanging. Most socks can be hung to dry.
Clohill expert tips
Repair your nails regularly. Sharp toenails can cause abrasion, cracking or deformation of socks, and prolonged squeezing against socks can cause discomfort to nails and skin.
FAQs
1. Do all socks need to be hand-washed?
No. Only socks made of delicate materials such as alpaca wool, silk, lace, or socks with decorations need to be hand-washed. Ordinary socks such as cotton socks can be machine washed.
2. Do I need to use hot water when hand washing socks?
No. Use warm or cold water. Hot water may cause socks to shrink.
3. Can I wash alpaca socks in regular laundry detergent?
Use a specialized mild detergent to avoid damaging the material.
4. Can I iron the socks?
No. High temperatures will damage the sock fibers.
5. Do I need to hand wash my socks every time I wash them?
For socks made of delicate materials such as alpaca socks and wool socks, you must hand wash them every time.
