Is Washing Your Socks Inside Out the Secret to a Better Clean?

When it comes to laundry, the main concern with socks is often making sure they stay paired after a cycle in the washer and dryer. However, another question arises: should you flip your socks inside out before washing? Does it actually make a difference in how clean and fresh they smell?

The good news is, we’ve got the solution. Discover why turning your socks inside out could be the key to achieving a deeper clean and fresher results.

What Makes Your Socks the Dirtiest?

While it might appear that the exterior of your socks gathers the most dirt—collecting crumbs, dust mites, bacteria, and other unpleasant particles as you move around—research reveals a surprising truth. A British mattress company conducted a study by swabbing socks worn throughout the day and discovered that socks are often filthier than your TV remote, which itself is 20 times dirtier than a toilet.

The interior of your socks isn’t any cleaner, thanks to the 250,000 sweat glands in your feet and the daily shedding of skin cells. This combination of moisture and dead skin creates an ideal environment for bacteria and fungi to flourish, potentially causing not only unpleasant odors but also conditions like athlete’s foot and other foot-related issues.

The Case for Washing Socks Inside Out

Given that both sides of your socks can harbor significant dirt and bacteria, which side should face out during washing? Experts suggest turning them inside out, as the inner layer is in direct contact with your skin all day, trapping sweat, odor, and dead skin cells, making it the primary area that needs thorough cleaning.

Flipping your socks inside out ensures that detergent and washing action target the most odor-prone areas, effectively removing bacteria and harmful microbes that cause bad smells. This method lowers the chances of ending up with stale socks or unpleasant foot odor.

Washing socks inside out also minimizes friction on the outer fabric, which is the visible part. This helps maintain patterns, colors, and prevents stains, especially if you accidentally mix white socks with colored clothing. Additionally, it reduces lint buildup, keeping your socks looking fresher for longer.

Inside-out washing is the ultimate laundry hack for socks!

Expert Tips for Cleaner Socks

Most sock brands advise washing their products in warm or cool water on a gentle cycle with mild detergent. However, for heavily soiled or particularly smelly socks, a more thorough cleaning approach may be necessary to restore freshness.

Flip your socks inside out and follow these expert tips to ensure they come out clean and fresh every wash.

Try a Presoak for Tough Stains

For socks that are especially dirty or smelly, presoaking them in a mild detergent or laundry-safe bleach (ideal for durable socks like athletic ones) can effectively tackle stubborn stains and odors.

Leverage Laundry Stain Removers

Laundry stain removers are excellent for eliminating tough stains. Alternatively, consult our Stain Removal Chart for household solutions tailored to specific stains, such as using nail polish remover for nail polish stains.

Follow Manufacturer Guidelines for Machine Washing

Typically, using a gentle detergent, cool water, and a delicate cycle is recommended. However, sturdy athletic socks can handle more rigorous washing, including higher temperatures and stronger cycles, to effectively eliminate microbes.

To prevent socks from getting lost, use clothespins to clip pairs together or place them in a delicates bag to reduce friction and wear during the wash.

Opt for Outdoor Drying When Possible

While most socks can safely go through the dryer, wool socks are better off air-dried to prevent shrinking and maintain their shape.

For those committed to minimizing bacteria in their socks, line-drying them in direct sunlight is highly effective. Plus, with the socks turned inside out, you’ll avoid any risk of sun-induced fading.