White socks tend to get dirty quickly, but hand washing them properly can help keep them fresh and bright.
What You’ll Need to Wash White Socks by Hand
- A bucket or basin
- Mild detergent or laundry soap
- Baking soda (optional, for stains and odors)
- White vinegar (optional, for softening and whitening)
- A scrubbing brush or an old toothbrush
- Lukewarm water
8 Easy Steps to Wash White Socks by Hand
White socks can easily pick up dirt and stains, making them look dull over time. Hand washing is an effective way to remove stains and keep them looking bright while preserving the fabric’s quality.
Follow these simple steps to clean your white socks by hand effectively:
1. Pre-Treat Stains (If Needed)
When your socks have noticeable stains, pre-treat them before washing. Apply a small amount of detergent directly onto the stains, or make a paste using baking soda and water.
Gently rub the stained areas with your fingers or a soft brush, allowing the solution to break down dirt and discoloration.
Let the socks sit for about 10-15 minutes to ensure the treatment works effectively before moving on to the washing process.
2. Fill a Basin with Water
Take a clean bucket or basin and fill it with lukewarm water. Avoid using hot water, as it can set stains into the fabric and weaken the fibers over time.
Lukewarm water is ideal because it helps loosen dirt while being gentle on the material. Make sure the water level is enough to fully submerge your socks for a thorough wash.
3. Add Detergent
Pour a small amount of mild laundry detergent into the water and stir it well until suds form.
If your socks have an unpleasant odor or appear dull, adding a tablespoon of white vinegar can help break down sweat buildup and restore brightness.
Let the detergent mix evenly in the water so that every part of the socks will be properly cleaned during the soak.
4. Soak the Socks
Place your socks in the soapy water, ensuring they are fully submerged. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes to allow the detergent to lift dirt and stains from the fabric.
When your socks are heavily soiled, consider soaking them for up to an hour to help loosen stubborn grime.
This step is crucial for softening dried dirt and making the scrubbing process easier.
5. Scrub the Fabric
Once the socks have soaked, take each one and gently rub the fabric together to remove dirt and stains.
Focus on the heel and toe areas, as these parts tend to collect the most dirt. If certain spots remain dirty, use a scrubbing brush or an old toothbrush to carefully scrub them in a circular motion.
Be gentle to avoid damaging the fabric, especially if the socks are made of delicate material.
6. Rinse Thoroughly
After scrubbing, drain the soapy water and rinse the socks under clean, running water. Make sure to remove all detergent residue, as leftover soap can cause stiffness or irritation when worn.
You can gently squeeze the socks while rinsing to speed up the process. Keep rinsing until the water runs completely clear, indicating that all the detergent and dirt have been washed away.
7. Remove Excess Water
To remove excess water, gently squeeze the socks without twisting or wringing them too hard.
Twisting can stretch out the fabric and alter the sock’s shape. Instead, press the socks between your hands or against the sides of the basin to release the water.
If needed, place them between a clean towel and press down lightly to absorb extra moisture.
8. Dry the Socks
Lay the socks flat on a dry towel or hang them up in a well-ventilated area. If you’re drying them outside, choose a shaded area to prevent excessive exposure to direct sunlight, which can weaken the fibers over time.
Avoid using a dryer, as the heat can shrink or damage the material. Let the socks air dry completely before wearing or storing them to prevent any dampness or musty odors.
That’s all, Enjoy!
