How often should you change your socks, and how long do they last?

Socks are something we use every day but rarely think about. Still, they raise a few questions: how often should you actually change them, can you wear the same pair two days in a row, and how do you know when a pair has had its day? Here we cover both the daily change and how long socks last.

How often should you change your socks?

The simple rule of thumb is to change into a clean pair every day. Feet have lots of sweat glands, and sweat combined with the warmth inside your shoes creates an environment where bacteria thrive. They're what cause bad odour.

When you may need to change more often

• After exercise or other physical activity.
• If your socks have got wet, for example from rain or slush.
• If your feet sweat a lot – a change in the middle of the day can feel good.
• Before bed, if you like sleeping in socks. Choose a clean, dry pair.

And your cosy socks?

Fluffy socks and slippers that you only wear at home for a while in the evening don't always need washing after every wear. Air them between wears and wash them regularly. Wool socks can also often be aired and worn more than once, as wool naturally resists odour.

How long do socks last?

There's no exact answer, as it depends on the material, how often you wear them, what shoes you have and how they're washed. A pair that's rotated with many others lasts longer than a favourite pair worn almost every day. The important thing is to keep an eye out for signs of wear.

Signs it's time for new socks

• Holes or thin patches, usually at the heel and big toe.
• A stretched-out cuff that no longer stays up and slides down into your shoe.
• A flat, hard lining in lined socks that no longer feels airy and warm.
• Lingering odour even straight after washing.
• Pilling and a rough surface that rubs against your skin.
• Lost shape, for example the heel sitting in the wrong place.

How to make your socks last longer

Rotate between several pairs

The more pairs you have to alternate between, the less each pair wears out. That's one reason multipacks are so practical. Our ankle socks in a 5-pack and thick warming socks in a 5-pack make it easy to have a clean pair ready every day.

Wash them the right way

• Turn socks inside out. Dirt and skin flakes come out more easily, and the outside wears less.
• Follow the care label. Many socks can handle 40°C, while lined and fluffy socks often do best at 30°C on a gentle cycle.
• Avoid fabric softener on fleece and performance socks.
• Hang to dry if you can. High heat in the tumble dryer wears out the elastane.

Take care of your feet and shoes

• Trim your toenails regularly – long nails wear holes faster.
• Soften hard skin on your heels, as it can wear down your socks.
• Make sure your shoes fit well. Shoes that slip at the heel make the sock wear more.
• Let your shoes dry between wears.

Be careful with cosy socks on hard floors

Fluffy socks without a sole wear out quickly if you walk around a lot in them. Socks and slippers with non-slip grip on the sole protect both your feet and the fabric.

Give old socks a new life

Socks that are no longer fit for your feet can often be reused as cleaning rags, dusting mitts or protection for small items in your bag. Whole, clean socks you no longer wear can be taken to textile collection.

You'll find our full range of socks under socks.

Frequently asked questions

Can you wear the same socks two days in a row?

For everyday socks, a clean pair every day is recommended. Wool socks can often be aired and worn again, as long as they haven't got sweaty or wet.

Why do socks get holes so quickly?

Common causes are friction from shoes that don't fit well, long toenails, hard skin on the heel and harsh washing at high temperatures.

How do you keep fleece socks soft?

Wash them inside out at a low temperature, avoid fabric softener and hang them to dry. That way the lining stays airy for longer.