How to Make Your Socks Last Longer

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Stack of colorful socks behind an analog alarm clock - How to Make Your Socks Last Longer

If you think about it, socks have it kind of rough. Their life is more demanding than any other article of clothing. They put on a lot of miles, so it's easy to see how they can wear out fast. But are you having to let go sooner than you'd like? You don't have to. Here are some tips on how to take care of your socks to make them last longer.

Be mindful of your washing.

Washing takes its toll on socks, and it's probably the number one reason socks wear out. But with a few thoughtful steps, you can lessen its impact. For starters, do not dry clean. The chemicals are too harsh for such sensitive items. Then, separate your laundry and wash your socks with like-colored clothes. This will preserve the vibrancy of the colors.

Then, wash them inside out. This reduces pilling and keeps lint from sticking to the outside of the socks. It also helps the washer get rid of sweat and skin on the inside of the socks. Gross, we know!

Machine wash warm with mild soap and steer clear of the bleach. Do not use fabric softener. This will ruin their shape and the effectiveness of their moisture-wicking capabilities.

You can also put them in garment bags to prevent them from getting lost. That's the worst.

Correctly dry your socks.

Tumble dry low and lay socks flat to dry. Hanging them will ruin their elasticity. Especially do not wring out wet socks. We want to keep them looking like socks! And for some good news — do not iron your socks. There! We saved you some time!

Pay attention to the size.

Make sure you're wearing socks that fit. Not only will they be more comfortable, but they'll last longer. Socks that are too small can get holes from your toes trying to poke through the ends. Socks that are too big will bunch and rub where they're not supposed to. Read our guide on How to Tell if Your Socks Fit.

And don't ignore your shoes. It's important that they fit properly too. If your socks are wearing on the tops or the sides, your shoes may be too small. Shoes that are too big can slip on your heels and rub the backs and bottoms of your socks.

Store them correctly.

First of all, make sure they are dry before you put them away. Damp socks will lose their elasticity and become slouchy. Keep your sock pairs together. Ok, we'll admit this is mostly just a preference of ours. But, if you can find matching pairs, you won't be throwing out perfectly good singles.

Fold your socks.

If you haven't found the right folding method for you, take a look at 6 Ways to Fold Socks. Although we are happy with any folding method, we encourage you to fold them flat. This also helps socks keep their shape.

Take care of your feet.

We hate to have to remind you of this but keep your toenails trimmed. Sharp nails can wear holes in the toes of your socks. You should also keep your feet smooth. Rough, callused feet can cause friction in your socks, speeding up wear and tear.

Increase sock longevity.

With proper care, you can increase the longevity of your socks. They will not last forever, but with these tips, you can keep them looking good and lasting longer.

If your socks have become worn out, shop our fun, matching socks for families.



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