How to Keep Your Rib Socks in Shape: Care and Washing Tips

Quick answer

Wash your rib socks inside out in cold water on a gentle cycle, then air dry flat to preserve their fitted shape and reinforced construction.

Step-by-step care guide

1. Turn socks inside out: Before washing, turn each sock inside out. This protects the outer surface and the discreet logo from abrasion. Common mistake: washing right-side out can cause the logo to peel or fade faster.
2. Use cold water and gentle cycle: Set your machine to cold water (max 86°F / 30°C) and select the gentle or delicate cycle. Hot water weakens the elastane blend and can shrink the cotton. Checkpoint: if your machine has a hand-wash program, use that for the gentlest treatment.
3. Skip fabric softener and bleach: Fabric softener coats the fibers and reduces moisture-wicking ability. Bleach damages the cotton and fades the color. Use a mild liquid detergent instead.
4. Air dry flat, never tumble dry: Lay the socks flat on a towel or drying rack away from direct sunlight. Tumble drying shrinks the cotton and breaks down the elastane, causing the socks to lose their fitted shape. Common mistake: hanging socks to dry can stretch out the ribbing at the top.
5. Store folded, not stretched: Fold socks in half or roll them loosely. Avoid stretching them over a hanger or balling them tightly, which can distort the rib structure over time.

Product facts

• Mid Length Rib Socks: Made of mercerised organic cotton—a polished fibre that increases lustre, strength and colour depth. Mercerised cotton resists fading and pilling better than regular cotton, so proper washing helps preserve its smooth, vibrant look.