Don\u2019t worry, washing socks isn\u2019t as complicated as you may think<\/strong>. There are, however, some important things to keep in mind. Let’s start with a few general tips on how to wash your socks properly. The guiding principle behind sock washing is simple: Always pay attention to the specifications provided by the manufacturer<\/strong>! This is incredibly important when it comes to functional fabrics because they require special care.<\/p>\n\n\n Turn your socks inside out<\/strong> before washing. Why? Sure, the socks may look dirty on the outside, but it\u2019s even more important to get rid of all the odour-producing<\/a> bacteria and skin particles on the inside as well. When it comes to the wash cycle, you can err on the side of caution and choose a gentle cycle<\/strong> if you don’t want to use a regular cycle. But, always have a look at the manufacturer\u2019s specifications beforehand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Here\u2019s another tip – this time on the mystery of the disappearing sock<\/strong>. Whether the socks are stolen by mischievous goblins or travel through a wormhole in the drum to another dimension, I guess we\u2019ll never know. Fortunately, there is a way to stop the socks from disappearing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Use mesh wash bag<\/strong> to wash your socks. This will keep the socks together and protect more sensitive functional socks (or fine merino socks<\/a>) from damage caused by the drum or zippers, buttons or rivets on other garments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Now, we\u2019re getting down to business! Regardless of whether your socks are made of wool, synthetic, cotton or merino wool, there\u2019s no reason to wash them at an extremely high temperature<\/strong> to get them clean. Although the temperature does depend on the material<\/strong>, 30\u00b0C is plenty for merino wool, while a maximum of 40\u00b0C is sufficient for functional synthetic materials.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Even at low temperatures, modern detergents are capable of thoroughly washing your socks, just as advertised. Temperatures above 40 degrees are not just unnecessary – they can cause permanent damage to the fabric. Plus, washing at lower temperatures will save you money and protect the environment as well. So, as is so often the case, less is more.<\/p>\n\n\n What about detergent<\/strong>? Well, there are several options to choose from out there. The main thing is that you steer clear of additives such as bleach, chlorine, optical brighteners or fabric softeners. That being said, using universal or 3-in-1 laundry detergents<\/strong> is simply not an option due to the aggressive additives<\/strong> and brighteners contained in these products. The gentlest alternative to these products is a delicate laundry detergent. This is a gentle detergent solution that acts like a kind of foamy airbag that protects the socks during the spin cycle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Delicate wash detergents<\/strong> are highly recommended for functional textiles<\/strong> because they are gentle on the fabric and don\u2019t contain any additives that could damage the fabric or its properties. Personally, I like to use a colour detergent<\/strong> every now and again. It may not be quite as gentle as a delicate detergent, but it doesn\u2019t contain any bleach or similar additives. Plus, it prevents discolouring and colour bleed. But keep in mind that colour detergent is not suitable for wool or silk!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Merino socks<\/strong> are usually incredibly easy to care for. The only thing you need to keep in mind is that you should wash them at 30\u00b0C and use the gentle cycle, if possible. The best option here is to use delicate or wool detergent. The latter should always be used for socks made of \u201cregular\u201d wool because it doesn\u2019t contain protease. Protease is a proteolytic enzyme that permanently damages wool fibres.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you have a foot fungus<\/strong>, there are special medical and anti-fungal detergents that combat the fungus on the sock. The temperature should be at least 60\u00b0C, otherwise 10 to 15% of the spores will survive if washed below this temperature. But, always consult the care instructions provided by the manufacturer<\/strong> beforehand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n We\u2019re all fine with no bleach, no chlorine, etc, but why no fabric softener? After all, the stuff usually smells pretty fantastic, and the clothes feel so soft and cuddly afterwards. Well, it all comes down to things called cationic surfactants<\/strong> that are in fabric softener. These surfactants form a film on the individual fibres, making the fibre surface appear smoother and feel softer. Sure, that sounds pretty terrific, but it\u2019s really not – believe me.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The film<\/strong> reduces the ability of fabric to absorb moisture, which is definitely more of a negative when it comes to functional textiles. Your socks may be super soft, but your feet will be sweaty and smelly. Fabric softener also damages the elasticity of synthetic fibres<\/strong>, causing them to lose their flexibility, get stretched out and become brittle. A nightmare for the sock cuff!<\/p>\n\n\n![\"Dirty](\"https:\/\/www.bergfreunde.de\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/Care-instructions-socks.jpg\")
<\/a>How to wash different kinds of socks<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/a>Which detergent for outdoor socks?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Why no fabric softener?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n