The Best Way to Wash Merino Wool Socks: Step-by-Step Guide

If you're an outdoor enthusiast, hiker, or someone who wants to keep your feet comfortably warm during winter, you might have a pair of Merino wool socks. But cleaning them can be a challenge, especially if you're unsure how to do it. That's why we've put together a step-by-step guide to help you clean your Merino wool socks properly and ensure they last for years.

How to Properly Wash Merino Wool Socks

Properly cleaning and maintaining your Merino wool socks is crucial for preserving their quality. For that, we recommend following these steps when washing:

1) Turn Your Socks Inside Out

Its best practice is to turn Merino wool socks inside out before washing them. This prevents the outer surface of the sock from rubbing against other items in the wash, which can damage the fibers and cause pilling.

Turning the socks inside out will thoroughly clean both sides of the sock during the wash cycle, making it especially important if you've worn them during strenuous activities or in sweaty conditions. To turn the socks inside out, pinch the toe area and pull it through until the entire sock is inverted.

Taking a few seconds to turn your Merino wool socks inside out before washing them will help keep them clean and extend their lifespan.

2) Set Your Washer to Cold or Warm

To ensure your Merino wool socks stay in good condition, it's essential to wash them at the appropriate temperature. We highly recommend cold or warm water, as hot water can damage the fibers and elasticity of the sock.

Hot water can also break down the natural oils in the delicate material, causing it to become stiff and scratchy. To prevent this, avoid high temperatures when washing Merino wool products, and check if your washer has a delicate or wool clothing setting.

3) Use a Mild Detergent (No Fabric Softeners)

Choosing a gentle detergent that won't harm your sock's delicate wool fibers is crucial. Avoid using regular laundry detergents with harsh chemicals like bleach or fabric softeners, as they can break down the natural fibers and affect the texture and shape of the socks.

Instead, opt for a specialized wool wash designed for delicate fabrics like merino wool. These gentle detergents are formulated with natural ingredients and won't cause any damage to your socks.

It's also important to follow the instructions carefully and use enough detergent to clean your socks. Too much detergent can leave a residue that can irritate your skin or cause foul odors.

4) Take Your Time Drying Them Off

Haphazardly using a dryer or hanging them up carelessly can damage the fabric or alter the sock's shape. To dry your Merino wool socks correctly, follow these tips:

Tumble Drying Merino Wools Socks

Merino wool socks are safe to tumble dry on a low-heat setting while opting not to use a dryer sheet. Excessive heat damages the wool fibers and can cause the socks to shrink, losing their original shape.

We also recommend removing them from the dryer as soon as they dry. If you don't have time to remove them immediately, consider setting a timer to remind you when they're finished. It's essential also to avoid using fabric softeners or dryer sheets when drying Merino wool socks.

Dryer sheets can impair the fiber's natural moisture-wicking ability and odor-resistant properties. We also advise against drying Merino wool socks with other items with zippers or buttons, as they can snag on the wool, leading to pilling or even holes.

Air Drying Merino Wool Socks

Air drying is the best method to keep your Merino wool socks in good condition. It minimizes the risk of excess heat while preventing shrinkage if you follow these steps:

1. Gently squeeze the excess water from your socks using a towel, but avoid wringing or twisting them, as this can damage the fibers.
2. Lay them flat on a clean towel or drying rack in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight or heat sources. While damp, reshape your socks to maintain their proper shape and prevent stretching. This can be done by smoothing out wrinkles and ensuring the toes are pointed in the right direction.
3. Allow your socks to air dry completely before wearing them again, which may take several hours or even overnight, depending on the humidity levels in your home.

Avoid hanging your Merino wool socks on a clothesline or hanger, as this can cause them to stretch out of shape. Also, please don't use a dryer rack; it can leave marks on your delicate wool garment.

How Often Should I Wash My Merino Wool Socks?

Wash your Merino wool socks after 2-3 wears or if you see any dirt or stains. These socks have antibacterial properties, so you can wear them multiple times before washing them. However, it's important not to wash them too frequently as this can damage the fibers and reduce their durability.

Does 100% Merino Wool Shrink?

Merino wool is a high-quality, luxurious material with excellent properties such as moisture-wicking, odor resistance, and temperature regulation. However, hot water or high-heat dryers will damage the underlying fibers, making even 100% Merino wool socks shrink.

Conclusion: How To Wash Merino Wool Socks

Socks made of Merino wool are incredibly durable and well worth the initial investment if you take care of them properly. To properly care for your Merino wool socks, it is recommended to wash them only when needed with a gentle detergent and to steer clear from hot water and fabric softeners.

To avoid any unnecessary wear and tear during the cleaning process, turn the socks inside out before washing them. For optimal longevity, lay them flat on a towel and let them air dry at room temperature.

With the knowledge of how to properly wash your Merino wool socks, you can now enjoy all your adventures! If you don't own a pair of Merino wool socks, why not check out what Pro-Tect Socks has to offer?