How to extend the life of your socks

Buying a nice pair of woven or printed socks is an investment in your comfort and appearance. They are also an investment worth taking extra steps to care for.

Laundering your socks using the manufacturer’s care instructions is the best way to ensure longevity. However, if you’ve lost your care instructions, here are some suggestions for machine washing your socks:

• Place them in a garment bag to keep them separate from the rest of the load.

• Make sure socks are not bunched up when you place them in the washer; otherwise they won’t get fully clean.

• Wash them inside out so that sweat and dry skin can wash off easier.

• Wash in cold water. Use the gentle cycle if possible.

• Use a mild soap and refrain from using bleach or fabric softener.

• Do not iron socks—the heat can melt synthetic fibers that give your sock their stretch.

The nicer the socks, the more you should consider hand-washing them. The agitation of a washing machine can damage the fabric a bit with each wash. By the same token, socks should stay out of the dryer and be hung to air dry.

Besides laundering, there are other habits you can develop or avoid to extend the life of your socks:

Wear the right size. Socks that are too small for the feet will stretch out. Socks that are too big will bunch up, creating undue wear and tear.

Take care of your feet. The foot is sometimes the most neglected parts of the body. Toenails get long and sharp, heels can become as rough as sandpaper, and toes can develop rock-like callouses. All of these conditions wear down the fabric of your socks every time you use them.

Watch where you walk. If you wear socks around the house avoid wearing them on dusty, concrete floors, such as the garage or unfinished basement.