Sock care made easy: how to wash merino, cotton & bamboo socks properly
With our care tips, your GIESSWEIN socks will stay soft, clean and durable for a long time.
Who doesn't love them – cosy, high-quality socks that keep your feet snug and warm, look good and are durable? To ensure that your GIESSWEIN socks stay that way, you need not only the right styles, but also the right care. Socks are often subjected to heavy wear and tear and quickly become dirty in everyday life – but don't worry: with a few simple tips, your favourite socks made of merino wool, cotton or bamboo fibres will stay in top condition for a long time. We'll tell you how to wash and care for them gently so that they not only stay clean, but also remain pleasantly soft and functional.
Turn inside out – the best basic rule for clean socks
The first step for gentle and thorough cleaning is simple: turn your socks inside out before washing. This allows skin flakes, dirt and sweat to be rinsed out more effectively, and the outside stays looking good for longer. Turning functional socks with delicate materials inside out protects the fibres from unnecessary abrasion and pilling. It also keeps them looking fresh – so be sure to turn them inside out before washing!
The right temperature: 30 degrees is perfectly adequate.
Perhaps you think that sports socks and everyday socks need to be washed at a higher temperature to ensure they are hygienically clean? Think again! A gentle wash at 30 degrees is perfectly adequate for GIESSWEIN socks made from merino wool, cotton and bamboo. Higher temperatures can damage the fibres, causing them to shrink or become brittle. Merino socks in particular should not be washed at higher temperatures, as this will preserve their temperature-regulating and moisture-wicking properties. In short: wash them gently and you will enjoy your socks for longer.
The right detergent without fabric softener
Fabric softener sounds tempting, but it's a no-go for your socks. Especially with natural fibres such as merino wool and bamboo, fabric softener attacks the fibres and robs them of their natural softness, breathability and functionality. Instead, use a mild, preferably special wool or delicate detergent. This will keep the fibres elastic and your socks comfortable to wear. You should also avoid bleach, as this quickly makes socks look unsightly and damages the texture.
Drying – ideally flat and in the shade
After washing, it's time to dry your socks properly: it's best to lay them flat on a drying rack and let them air dry. Heat sources such as direct sunlight or tumble dryers are a no-no, especially for merino and bamboo socks. Too much heat can cause the fibres to fade or lose their shape. Gently drying your socks ensures that they retain their shape even after many washes and continue to feel soft and comfortable.
In summary: Turn your socks inside out before washing, wash them on a gentle cycle at a maximum temperature of 30 degrees, use a mild detergent without fabric softener and dry them flat in the shade.
With these simple tips, you can significantly extend the life of your merino, cotton and bamboo socks – while ensuring optimal hygiene and comfort.
Curious? Then browse our online shop and find your new favourite socks.
