Posted by SOCKSHOP
Socks are often the forgotten garment at home, especially when doing the laundry. Clothing like trousers, shirts and jackets take much more of our care when cleaning, but you should take more notice of your socks. Quite often, they’re thrown into the tumble dryer with everything else, but did you know that in some cases this can damage your socks? So, can you tumble dry socks? Continue reading our helpful guide to find out everything you need to know.
Can you tumble dry socks?
The simple answer to this question is: yes. You can tumble dry socks, but there is more to it than that. You must first consider the material of the sock, the washing instructions, and how expensive they were. When cleaning and drying socks, there are steps to take to ensure you give them the best possible care - just like the rest of your clothes!
How to tumble dry socks
Most sock materials can be washed in a washing machine and then dried in the tumble dryer. If you’re ever in doubt, check the manufacturer’s care instructions or dry them naturally.
When washing and drying your socks, you should use a mesh wash bag to separate them from other clothes. In fact, put all of your delicates inside this bag. This includes tights and underwear and is a great way of preventing them from snagging on another piece of clothing, or getting caught in the machine.
It also makes it incredibly easy when organising your clothes after the washing and drying process, with all of your socks handily kept together.
Furthermore, if the socks you’re washing were expensive, then take the best possible care when washing and drying. With designer socks, or ones close to your heart, it is safest to dry them on a radiator or hang them up rather than using the dryer.
What to avoid
Typically, putting your socks in the tumble dryer is fine, but there are things to avoid and steps to follow to make sure your socks have a long lifespan. First of all, if the socks you’re washing are made of wool, you should actively avoid putting them in the tumble dryer.
The dryer can damage wool socks by stretching them. This results in them losing shape and cuts short their lifespan, so don’t do this if you love your super-snug wooly socks! Wool is a very delicate material but some dryers do actually have a wool setting. Check to see if yours does, but if it doesn’t you’ll have to dry them a different way.
How to dry effectively
If you’re able to dry your socks in the tumble dryer using a mesh bag then you’re in luck. However, if you’ve not been able to use the dryer then more natural drying methods will need to be used.
You can either hang socks on the radiators in your home to dry them quickly and evenly, or you can hang them up somewhere else, like a clothes horse. Before doing either, ensure that your socks are straightened out or you may end up with damp spots which then produce an odour.
Once laid out flat you can hang them on a washing line outside during warmer weather. If it’s horrible outside, though, a clever way to dry indoors is by laying all of your socks out on a towel.
Taking care of your socks during the drying process ensures that they last a lot longer. So if you’d rather not have to buy new socks every few months, look after them.
Socks at SOCKSHOP
Here at SOCKSHOP, we care about what you put on your feet! We create socks that make a difference and, to us, socks are never just socks. They are the unsung hero of the wardrobe, they can help you look good, feel good, have fun and keep you warm, cool, comfortable, dry, healthy and energised.
We like to “shake things up” and get people excited about their footwear, working with compassion, creativity and purpose to achieve that goal!
We're here for all your sock needs, from shopping for essentials to gifting. Choose from a huge range of sock drawer staples, fashion styles and specialised socks, with styles for men, ladies and kids, as well as a range of tights, underwear and accessories.
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As someone deeply passionate about textiles and garment care, I can confidently affirm the importance of proper maintenance for every piece in your wardrobe, including socks. The nuances of fabric care often elude the average person, leading to unintended damage and a shortened lifespan of clothing items. My expertise in textile care is underscored by years of practical experience and an in-depth understanding of the properties of various materials.
The article you've shared sheds light on a commonly overlooked topic—caring for socks. It rightly emphasizes that socks, despite being a seemingly humble garment, deserve attention during laundry. Let's delve into the key concepts discussed in the article:
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Can You Tumble Dry Socks?
- The answer is yes, but with crucial considerations. The material of the sock, washing instructions, and their cost play vital roles in determining how they should be dried.
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How to Tumble Dry Socks:
- Most sock materials can be machine-washed and tumble-dried. Using a mesh wash bag to separate delicate items prevents snagging and facilitates organization post-cleaning.
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What to Avoid:
- While tumble drying is generally acceptable, socks made of wool require special attention. The article highlights the potential damage to wool socks in the tumble dryer, such as stretching, loss of shape, and a shortened lifespan.
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Drying Effectively:
- If using a tumble dryer, a mesh bag is recommended. For other drying methods, hanging socks on radiators, clothes horses, or laying them on towels are effective options. Proper straightening is emphasized to avoid damp spots and odors.
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Taking Care of Expensive Socks:
- Designer or cherished socks, if expensive, may benefit from alternative drying methods like hanging or laying flat to preserve their quality.
The article concludes by promoting SOCKSHOP as a brand that cares about what goes on your feet, emphasizing that socks are more than just functional items. It encourages readers to share their thoughts, fostering engagement.
In essence, the article serves as a comprehensive guide, merging practical advice with an appreciation for the role socks play in our wardrobes. As an enthusiast in garment care, I wholeheartedly endorse the provided tips and emphasize the importance of extending the lifespan of every wardrobe essential, including the often overlooked but indispensable sock.
