So, you decided to go big and purchase those £50 merino wool socks that you’ve been craving for. Let’s be honest, that’s quite an investment you got there.
So, you must be thinking, how do I wash merino wool socks without screwing up?
Don’t worry…. It’s no rocket science. This article will provide you with different methods that could be used to ensure your socks stay safe during the wash.
Dos and Don’ts
Let’s learn about what you can do and what you can’t.
Dos
Read the Requirements on the Label
We recommend that you always read the product’s care label before washing. This will help identify how to use the product effectively and carefully.
By doing this, it will allow you to take proper care of the merino wool socks and help in the long term, as this will avoid any damages that may be done towards the fabric of the merino wool socks.
Wash Below 40 Degrees
You should always wash under 40 degrees for the best results possible.
Turn Wool Socks Inside Out
You should turn the wool socks inside out because, when washing, all the bad bacteria will be removed from within the socks.
Don’ts
Putting Dark and Light Colors together
Avoid mixing dark and light colors, as this will ruin and discolor your socks.
Using Strong Wool Detergents
You can’t use strong wool detergents as the bleach from the detergent will contain very high chemicals which will destroy the merino wool fibers.
Giving Heat from the Radiator or Direct Sunlight
When exposed to high temperatures, the fabric within the socks will shrink. So, using heat from radiator is not an option.
Using Fabric Softener
This will coat the fabric, meaning that the ability to manage moisture and keep steady body temperature will be reduced.
How Often to Wash Merino Wool Socks?
You should wash Merino wool socks after 2-3 days of use. That would help the socks to be in good condition. Keep reading to learn how to wash merino wool socks to disinfect bacteria.
Machine Wash Method – Merino Wool Socks
Equipment Needed
- Wool Detergent
- Laundry Bag (Optional)
- Towel.
Step 1 – Place the Socks into the Washing Machine
Turn your Merino Wool Socks inside out. Use a laundry bag if required. Place the Merino Wool Socks inside the washing machine.
Step 2 – Choose the Wool Detergent
Choose the correct wool detergent for your washing machine.
Merino wool is often softer and delicate than regular wool, meaning the wrong detergent will damage the product!
A neutral, minor detergent should be used, preventing any damages from taking place on the merino wool and help to disinfect bad bacteria on the socks.
Step 3 – Choose the Suitable Mode on the Washing Machine
Set your washing machine to wool cycle mode. If your washing machine does not have this mode, then use gentle machine wash mode or cold water.
Avoid hot water as the heat may shrink the wool.
Step 4 – Remove the Clothing and Air-Drying
Carefully remove the merino wool socks from the washing machine.
Gently rinse and remove any excess water that may be remaining.
Air-dry the merino wool socks by hanging them on a clothesline or lay flat on a towel, where contact is made with unheated air.
After doing that, a few hours later, they should be dry and ready to be used.
Hand Wash Method – Merino Wool Socks
Equipment needed:
- Bucket or Sink
- Wool Detergent
- Towel
Step 1:
Fill the bucket or sink with clean, lukewarm water.
Step 2:
Apply the wool detergent into the water. Remember to use the correct wool detergent for the best results.
Step 3:
Soak the merino wool socks in lukewarm water for about 10 minutes.
Step 4:
Gently massage the merino wool socks whilst submerged in lukewarm water. Make sure not to pull or rub the socks as this can cause damage to it.
Step 5:
Remove the merino wool socks from the bucket or sink. Then gently rinse through cold water and remove any excess water that may remain.
Step 6 – Air-Drying
Dry flat on a towel or Hang on top of a clothes line.
Remember not to put near a heat source, as this will cause the fibers to tighten and shrink the wool socks.
Conclusion
Merino wool socks keep us cool in the summer and warm in the winter. And now you know not one, but two methods on how to wash merino wool socks. Choose whichever methods that suits you, and you will be fine.
And if you have any issues, let us know in the comments.
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