# How to wash hiking socks so they last

Source: https://trailandlace.co.uk/blog/how-to-wash-hiking-socks
Published: 2026-10-12
Publisher: Trail and Lace

**In short:** Turn hiking socks inside out, wash them on a cool or wool cycle (around 30 degrees) with a mild or wool detergent, skip fabric softener and bleach, then air dry them flat or on a rack. Avoid the tumble dryer and radiators, which shrink merino and flatten cushioning. Follow the care label, which may allow slightly warmer washes for synthetics.

Good hiking socks are built from merino, nylon and elastane knitted into dense cushioned zones. Wash them like cotton gym socks, with hot water, softener and a tumble dryer, and they lose their spring, shrink or wear through early. A few small changes keep them comfortable for much longer. This guide covers machine and hand washing, drying, washing on multi-day trips and dealing with stubborn smells.

## Why washing method matters

The cushioning in hiking socks comes from terry loops on the inside. Inside out washing lets water and detergent reach those loops, where sweat, skin and grit collect. Hot water and agitation can felt merino, making it shrink and lose its softness. Fabric softener coats fibres, reducing their ability to move moisture and, some makers say, can affect odour resistance. Heat from dryers breaks down elastane, so socks lose their grip and slide down in boots.

Washing gently keeps the loops springy, the fit snug and the fibres doing their job.

## How to machine wash hiking socks

Most hiking socks are machine washable. Check the label, then follow these steps.

1. Turn the socks inside out so the cushioned loops get cleaned.
2. Shake out grit, sand and grass seeds first.
3. Wash with similar colours on a cool or wool cycle, typically around 30 degrees.
4. Use a mild or wool-specific detergent in a normal or reduced dose.
5. Leave out fabric softener and bleach.
6. Take them out promptly and reshape them while damp.

## How to dry hiking socks

Air drying is the safest option. Lay socks flat on a rack or hang them by the toes, away from direct heat. Merino-rich socks dry more slowly than synthetics, so allow a day indoors in winter. Do not put them on radiators, which can shrink wool and harden elastic.

Some synthetic socks allow a low tumble dry. Check the label first, and remember that even a low heat shortens the life of elastic over time.

Note: Tumble drying merino socks is the most common way to shrink them. Once felted, they cannot be stretched back to their original size.

## Washing socks on a multi-day walk

On long trails, wash socks in a sink or a dry bag with a little biodegradable soap and cool water. Rub the soles and heels, rinse well and wring them gently in a towel. Hang them outside your pack to dry as you walk, using safety pins or clips.

Merino's odour resistance means many walkers wash socks every second or third day on a trip. Synthetic socks usually need washing more often but dry faster. Carry at least two pairs so one can dry while you wear the other.

- Wash in a basin or dry bag with a little soap.
- Rinse thoroughly, as soap left in the knit can irritate skin.
- Squeeze in a towel rather than twisting hard.
- Dry on the outside of your pack in good weather.

## Dealing with smelly socks

If socks still smell after washing, soak them inside out for 30 minutes in cool water with a little wool detergent before the wash. Make sure your boots are not the source: washing socks does little if the insoles are holding the smell. Remove and wash insoles and let boots dry fully between walks.

Our guide to [smelly walking boots](https://trailandlace.co.uk/blog/smelly-walking-boots) explains how to deal with the boots themselves.

## When to replace hiking socks

Replace socks when the heel or toe is thin enough to see through, when cushioning feels flat even after washing or when they slip down inside boots because the elastic has gone. Worn socks rub more, and rubbing is a common cause of hot spots and blisters.

New socks change the fit of your boots slightly. If you switch to a thicker pair, check your boots still have toe room. Our [hiking socks explained](https://trailandlace.co.uk/blog/hiking-socks-explained) and [merino vs synthetic hiking socks](https://trailandlace.co.uk/blog/merino-vs-synthetic-hiking-socks) articles help you choose. Boots with more volume, such as those in our [best walking boots for wide feet](https://trailandlace.co.uk/best/best-walking-boots-for-wide-feet), take thicker socks more easily.

[See walking boots for wide feet](https://trailandlace.co.uk/best/best-walking-boots-for-wide-feet)

## Frequently asked questions

**Can you wash merino socks in the washing machine?** Usually yes, inside out on a cool wool cycle with wool detergent. Check the care label and air dry them.

**Should I use fabric softener on hiking socks?** No. It coats the fibres, reducing moisture movement and comfort.

**How often should I wash hiking socks?** After each walk at home. On multi-day trips, merino socks can often go two or three days between washes.

**Why have my hiking socks shrunk?** Hot water, agitation or a tumble dryer has felted the wool. Wash cool and air dry to prevent it.

## Buying guides on this topic

- https://trailandlace.co.uk/best/best-walking-boots-for-wide-feet
- https://trailandlace.co.uk/best/best-walking-boots-uk