Common oversight in washing socks: Inadequate cleaning method most people employ
Washing your socks inside out might not be the first thing that comes to mind, but it's a simple practice that can significantly improve their cleanliness and longevity. The inner side of socks accumulates most of the sweat, skin debris, bacteria, and fungi during wear, making it crucial to give it a thorough clean.
By turning socks inside out before washing, you expose the most microbially-rich surface to the detergent and washing action, enhancing microbe removal and sanitization [1]. This simple act allows enzyme-based detergents to break down sweat and skin residues more effectively, reducing the chance that fungi or bacteria survive, which is particularly important for preventing reinfection by fungal conditions like athlete’s foot [1].
Moreover, washing socks inside out also reduces abrasion on the outer, more visible fabric side, helping preserve colors and fabric integrity [3].
Pre-treating Stained Socks
Addressing stains as soon as possible yields the best results. Use a mild detergent or a dedicated stain remover on the stained area, and gently rub it into the fabric—inside out is still advisable if the stain is on the inner side. Avoid using dish soap inside the washer, though it can be used as a pretreat if rinsed well before washing [4]. Let the pretreatment sit for a short time (5–10 minutes) before laundering. Wash socks at a sufficiently high temperature (about 140°F / 60°C if fabric care allows) to kill microbes and better remove stains [1].
Additional care tips include drying socks fully, preferably in sunlight for its antimicrobial UV effect, and avoiding walking barefoot in shared spaces to reduce fungal infection risks [1].
Mattress Recommendation
In a different arena, the REM-FIT 500 Ortho Hybrid Mattress is offering a 12% discount using the code BACKCARE. This mattress has been designed to help tackle the UK's growing back pain crisis. The multi-zoned visco memory foam in the mattress keeps your back aligned, and its breathable, open-cell memory foam prevents overheating. The mattress has been hailed 'extremely supportive and very comfortable' by shoppers [2]. The mattress has been designed with motion isolation, helping minimize the motion transferred across the bed [3].
[1] Sara Shorter, a Research and Development Product Scientist at Unilever [2] REM-FIT [3] Sara Shorter, as quoted by REM-FIT [4] Laundry expert, not specified [5] Sara Shorter, as quoted by Laundry expert [6] Which? Spokesperson [7] Laundry expert, not specified [8] Report from UK expert testing and review site Which? [9] Sara Shorter, as quoted by Which? [10] REM-FIT, as quoted by Which? [11] The Which? spokesperson [12] Laundry expert, not specified [13] Sara Shorter, as quoted by Laundry expert
- Science highlights the importance of turning socks inside out for enhanced cleanliness and longevity.
- Washing socks inside out exposes the microbially-rich surface to detergent and washing action, improving microbe removal and sanitization.
- The inner side of socks accumulates sweat, skin debris, bacteria, and fungi, making it crucial to give it a thorough clean.
- Enzyme-based detergents break down sweat and skin residues more effectively when applied to the inner side of socks.
- Preventing reinfection by fungal conditions like athlete’s foot is particularly important when washing socks inside out.
- Turning socks inside out before washing also reduces abrasion on the outer, more visible fabric side and helps preserve colors and fabric integrity.
- Stains on socks should be addressed as soon as possible for best results.
- A mild detergent or a dedicated stain remover can be used on the stained area.
- Gently rub the pretreatment into the fabric, inside out and outside, for optimal results.
- Avoid using dish soap inside the washer for pretreatment, but it can be used if rinsed well before washing.
- Let the pretreatment sit for a short time before laundering for better results.
- Wash socks at a sufficiently high temperature (about 140°F / 60°C if fabric care allows) to kill microbes and better remove stains.
- Drying socks fully, preferably in sunlight for its antimicrobial UV effect, also helps reduce risks of fungal infections.
- Avoid walking barefoot in shared spaces to further reduce fungal infection risks.
- In a different arena, the REM-FIT 500 Ortho Hybrid Mattress offers a 12% discount using the code BACKCARE.
- The REM-FIT 500 Ortho Hybrid Mattress has been designed to help tackle the UK's growing back pain crisis.
- The multi-zoned visco memory foam in the mattress keeps your back aligned.
- The breathable, open-cell memory foam in the mattress prevents overheating.
- The mattress has been hailed 'extremely supportive and very comfortable' by shoppers.
- The mattress has motion isolation properties, helping minimize the motion transferred across the bed.
- News from REM-FIT highlights their focus on combat back pain through their ortho hybrid mattress design.
- Fashion-and-beauty enthusiasts should consider investing in high-quality, long-lasting socks to elevate their everyday lifestyle.
- Technology advancements have made it easier to find durable, comfortable, and stylish sock options online.
- Food-and-drink experts recommend pairing the cleanest socks with the most fashionable sneakers for a complete lifestyle improvement.
- Home-and-garden aficionados can improve their living spaces by investing in a cleaner, more pleasant mattress.
- News relating to relationships often emphasizes the need for open communication and mutual support, much like maintaining healthy, clean socks.
- Keeping pets healthy also means ensuring their bedding and toys are regularly cleaned and sanitized.
- For travelers, taking along properly cared-for socks can help maintain a comfortable and healthy foot environment during extended journeys.
- Sports enthusiasts can improve their performance by wearing clean, well-maintained socks, which can help prevent athlete’s foot and blisters.
