Sock Care: How to Care for Natural Fibre Socks & Make Them Last
Once you start wearing natural fibre socks you won’t look back. Soft, comfortable and breathable, these socks have it all. And whilst natural fibre socks are incredibly durable, they do require some simple care to ensure they last. The good news is that with just a few simple steps, you can keep your socks feeling fresh and luxurious, wear after wear.
Washing Your Natural Fibre Socks
One of the most common questions we get asked is how to wash our socks. It’s a good question, because the last thing you want is for your favourite socks to lose their shape or to shrink. While it can seem tempting to toss your socks in the wash on a regular cycle, it’s worth remembering that natural fibres need a little bit of TLC.
For long-lasting results, particularly for alpaca and cashmere natural fibre socks, wash them by hand in cool water using a gentle, wool-safe detergent. Avoid rubbing the material and instead gently agitate the socks for a good clean. Then rinse thoroughly. Simple!
Prefer machine washing? Mohair and merino socks can safely be washed on a wool cycle. We recommend washing them in cold water (no warmer than 30°C or 86°F).
Always avoid the use of bleach, harsh detergents and fabric conditioners. These can cause colours to fade, as well as damaging and stripping the natural oils from the delicate fibres. They can also compromise mohair and merino’s natural moisture-wicking properties.
Drying Your Natural Fibre Socks the Right Way
Once washed, drying your natural fibre socks is just as important, and if there’s one thing we hope you remember, it’s to never, ever tumble dry your natural fibre socks! All that tossing about inside a hot tumble dryer is a recipe for a sock disaster. The same goes for wringing out your socks, which will stretch their fibres and lose their shape.
The key to preserving your merino, alpaca, cashmere or mohair socks' softness and structure is patience. Firstly, lay your socks flat between two towels and gently press out the excess water. Then, leave them flat to dry on a clean towel, and avoid hanging them by the toe or ankle, as this can cause stretching.
Air drying may not be quick, but your socks will remain in top condition for much longer.
Preventing Wear and Tear
While natural fibres are incredibly durable, they can still show subtle signs of wear and tear. To avoid pilling, gently use a fabric comb to remove any loose fibres from your socks.
Areas of thinning and significant wear can be reinforced with a patch or carefully mended to extend their lifespan.
Storing Natural Fibre Socks
To preserve the colour, softness and structure of your natural fibre socks, it’s best to store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. For best results, store pairs of socks in a breathable storage bag, or fold them neatly and place in a drawer or basket.
At the Cambridge Sock Company, we want to ensure that your socks provide years of enjoyment and comfort. By following these simple sock care tips, you can enjoy the softness and breathability of our natural fibre socks for years to come.
Have a question about caring for your natural fibre socks? We’re all ears. We love talking socks. Contact us by phone, email, or by completing a simple form. We’ll get straight back to you.