How to Wash Merino Wool Socks

Socks often don't get enough credit as a key part of your wardrobe, and one of the most crucial aspects of your socks is their material. Among the best choices for a premium footwear experience is Merino wool, one of the best varieties of this famous fiber.

But with the many advantages of Merino wool also come some special requirements for caring for them. Let's take a closer look at what you need to know about how to wash Merino wool socks.

First, turn your socks inside out. This serves two purposes. The first is improving your washer's ability to clean the dirtiest parts of the socks, which is typically the interior area that directly touches your feet. In addition to removing sweat, dead skin cells, and other gross substances, washing them inside out protects the exterior surface from the friction of the washing machine, which can degrade the fabric over time.

When it's time to wash them, set your washing machine on the gentle cycle. This will help protect the wool fibers and allow the socks to retain their shape for the long run. Always use cold or lukewarm water, as hot water will shrink your socks or otherwise affect their fit. As for soap, use a mild detergent, but never bleach or fabric softener, which can damage the wool.

Unlike most socks, Merino wool socks don't usually need to be washed after every wear. Because of the advantages mentioned above (particularly the odor-fighting properties), most people in everyday situations can get two or three uses out of a pair of Merino socks before washing. This is especially true if you turn the socks inside out to air them out when not in use, ensuring they dry completely.

However, there are also plenty of situations where, ideally, you would wash your Merino wool socks after a single wearing. These include especially active days where your feet are sweating more than usual or after time outdoors where they may have picked up dirt, mud, or other grime. But even in these cases, wearers who need to squeeze another day of use out of their socks will do better with Merino wool than cotton or blends.

Yes, you can absolutely dry your Merino wool socks in a standard clothes dryer, but it’s not recommended if you’re worried about shrinkage. Experts generally don't recommend hanging them to dry either, which can cause them to droop and stretch out of shape.The best method to protect wool socks from shrinking is air drying them by laying them flat on a clean surface away from the sun. 

If you don't have the time or space for air drying, tumble dry them on low or no heat. Check on the socks regularly and remove them as soon as they're completely dry.

Those looking for the best ways to keep their feet in top shape in all situations should try Merino wool socks for men or merino wool socks for women. The material is well-known for its ability to keep you warm in the winter and cool in the summer, as well as for its breathability and moisture-absorbing properties that keep you dry and comfortable. In fact, it can absorb 30-40% of its weight without feeling wet.

Merino wool is also naturally odor-resistant, one reason they’re ideal for hiking, camping, traveling, or other situations where you may need to wear them for an extended time. All of that comes before you even consider the ultrasoft feel that Merino provides, making them a joy to wear.

While Merino wool offers numerous benefits, it's important to consider a couple of drawbacks. Firstly, Merino wool products tend to be more expensive than their cotton or synthetic counterparts. Additionally, they require more specialized care to maintain their quality and longevity. However, despite these considerations, the exceptional benefits of Merino wool often outweigh these drawbacks, which is why they are so highly valued and loved by consumers.

Now that you know how to care for Merino wool socks, the only thing left to do is treat your feet to a pair. Feetures offers a wide selection of Merino wool socks for women and men in a variety of heights and designs, including cushioned styles. What they all have in common is Feeture's lifetime guarantee, which promises a replacement for socks that degrade with holes, material thinning, and losing their shape. Upgrade your footwear today and feel the difference Merino wool socks can make.