How to care for your natural fibre socks

How to Look After Your Natural Fibre Socks

When it comes to comfort, warmth and durability, nothing quite compares to socks made from natural fibres. Whether it’s the soft luxury of cashmere, the breathable warmth of alpaca, or the temperature-regulating magic of merino wool, natural fibre socks are a small everyday indulgence that make a big difference. But to keep them feeling their best, a little care goes a long way.

Looking after your natural fibre socks properly not only helps them stay beautifully soft, but also ensures they last for many cosy nights (and days) to come. Here’s how to keep them in tip-top condition.

Wash with Care

Natural fibres such as alpaca, merino, cashmere and mohair are delicate by nature, so they need a gentler touch when it comes to washing. The golden rule? Avoid hot water, harsh detergents and vigorous washing cycles.

Instead, opt for a cool hand wash or use your machine’s delicate or wool cycle. Always use a mild wool detergent or one designed for natural fibres. Regular laundry liquids can be too strong and strip the fibres of their natural softness.

If you’re hand washing, soak your socks in lukewarm water for around 5 - 10 minutes, then gently squeeze (never wring!) to remove any dirt. Rinse thoroughly and press out excess water using a towel.

Dry Naturally

Natural fibre socks don’t take kindly to tumble drying or direct heat. High temperatures can cause them to shrink or lose their shape. Instead, lay them flat on a clean towel and allow them to air dry away from radiators or sunlight.

This helps preserve the elasticity of the fibres and keeps your socks looking and feeling as good as new. You can gently reshape them while damp to maintain their fit, especially if they’re made from finer fibres like cashmere or merino.

Store with Care

When it comes to storage, avoid hanging your socks or folding them tightly, as this can stretch the fibres. Instead, gently roll them or lay them flat in your drawer. For long-term storage, especially over summer months, make sure they’re clean and completely dry before putting them away.

A simple but effective tip: pop a lavender sachet or cedar ball into your drawer to naturally repel moths and keep your socks smelling fresh.

Rotate Your Socks

Just like your favourite jumper, your natural fibre socks will benefit from a bit of rest between wears. Rotating them allows the fibres time to recover their natural elasticity, helping them keep their shape and comfort for longer.

If you wear natural fibre socks regularly (and who could blame you?!) it’s worth investing in a few pairs so you can alternate them throughout the week.

Treat Them Kindly

Finally, treat your socks with the same care you’d give to any fine garment. Avoid wearing them around the house without slippers if you have hard floors, as friction can cause wear on the soles. Likewise, be mindful of rough toenails or snagging shoes that might damage the delicate knit.

By following these simple steps, you’ll keep your natural fibre socks beautifully soft, perfectly shaped, and wonderfully comfortable for years to come. After all, when you’ve found socks that feel this good, it’s worth looking after them properly.

Explore our collection of natural fibre socks today – and give your feet the comfort they deserve.