SOCKS: HOW LONG THEY LAST & WHEN TO BUY NEW ONES

Socks aren’t something people think about that often. You put them on, they keep you warm, and that’s it.

It is unfortunate that out of all the things you wear, socks will suffer the most damage because they are thin, need to stretch to fit your feet, and if you don’t cut your toenails often, the nail itself can damage the fabric.

Eventually, your socks will have a hole in them, and no one wants holes in their socks or smelling socks. Here are the signs you need new socks:

Discoloration 

We’ve all experienced buying a funky new pair of funky polka dot or colorful argyle socks, only to find your shoe stain has made its way onto your great new sock wardrobe. 

There is nothing more frustrating than seeing your classic socks get a black stain from rubbing against your work shoes or running shoes, it can be frustrating.

Holes

The obvious should be obvious, but sometimes, it isn’t. A big hole that your toe pops out of sounds obvious, but even holes in your socks at the top or heel can cause blisters or calluses. Holes into which your toes can slip and get caught are very uncomfortable.

Stretched elastic

Once the elastic on the top of your socks no longer hold them up, it’s time to retire them. You can treat yourself to superior-ribbed-top socks if you find that one leg feels colder than the other; in many socks, the spandex is especially prominent at the sock cuff.

As with holes, droopy socks can be embarrassing, but they can also cause friction, which can hurt your feet. Socks that are stretched or sagging should be retired

Threadbare sections

You should throw away your socks if you can see right through them to your foot. A threadbare section is also a hazard. Thin patches cause skin irritation, slips, and trips due to abrasions to soft areas of the feet. Additionally, thin socks make the inner soles of your shoes stick to your feet, which is unhealthy since the moisture that accumulates on your feet is not being removed.

HOW CAN I MAKE MY SOCK LAST LONGER?

1. Wash them cold: Hot water damages socks. Hot water will make your colorful socks or striped socks bleed. Colors can also fade and materials can shrink when exposed to hot water. Socks do not need to be washed in hot water unless they are hard to wear or for sports.
2. Avoid bleach and harsh chemicals: No matter how white the socks are, bleach is not the answer. Bleach, stain removers, and harsh detergents will damage the delicate fabric of your special socks, causing the elastic to stretch or holes to form faster. The bleach in some products can actually disintegrate your socks.
3. Don’t iron your socks: I know some of you are thinking, “What?”. Socks are sometimes ironed, which is not a good idea. If you must have ultra-pressed socks, hold them between two heavy books overnight.
4. Take care of your feet: Another way to extend the life of your socks is to keep your toenails neatly clipped and your feet smooth and soft. There is almost nothing that cuts through a beautiful new sock and creates an ugly hole faster than a sharp toenail and neglected rough feet. If you do your best to keep your toes soft and well-groomed, that will prolong their lifespan.

To add to your collection of socks, check out our Shop page for the coolest socks around!