How to Remove the Smell from Your Socks – The Ultimate Guide

How to Remove the Smell from Your Socks – The Ultimate Guide

Stinky socks are indeed no fun. Whether you were trudging through long hours at work, powering through a sweaty gym session, or just wearing them for a while, sock odor is unbearably foul and embarrassing. But cheer up; here's some good news: They need not go, funky or not, if they are your favorites. All you need to do is care for and maintain your socks properly to keep them smelling clean and odor-free. 

JustFunSocks.com confirms that socks must be fun, fabulous, and, most importantly, comfortable. Therefore, this guide is a simple read for removing odors from socks and keeping them fresh.

What Causes Socks to Smell?

What Causes Socks to Smell

 Let us first get to know some causes of sock odor before the remedies: 

Sweat and Bacteria – The feet have over 250,000 sweat glands, and sweat mixed with bacteria creates foul-smelling odors. 

Trapped Moisture—These damp socks are not breathable enough to allow an exit for such moisture, creating a perfect breeding environment for bacteria and fungi. 

Improper Washing means not washing socks properly (or frequently enough). Given this condition, sweat and bacteria will build up over time. 

Now that we know better let's fix the situation!

First Step: Choose the Right Type of Socks 

First Step Choose the Right Type of Socks

The first step to preventing nasty odors in your socks is wearing that type of moisture-wicking, breathable socks, which would keep your feet dry and fresh.

At JustFunSocks.com, we have a selection of stylish and comfy socks that look good and keep moisture from building up.

Top Picks for Happy Feet:

Men's My Week Monday Funny Crew Socks - Ideal for the office with their breathable fabric blend.

Men's Retro Rider Bicycle Crew Socks - A fashionable pick boasting moisture-wicking properties. 

Women's Pineapple Prosperity Car Crew Socks - Simultaneously keep your feet comfy and lucky! 

Women's Beach Dog No Show Socks—Perfect for loafers or sneakers while still fresh. 

Men’s Bourbon Street Jazz Crew Socks-For those who like a little fun in their sock drawer! 

Wearing breathable socks like these will help to reduce perspiration further and keep your feet dry. 

Washing Your Socks Right 

Washing Your Socks Right

Getting that odour and bacteria out of your socks depends on washing them correctly. Here's how to keep each pair of socks fresh and clean: 

  • Washing socks inside out: This helps remove bacteria and sweat from the inside of the fabric. 
  • Washing with hot water: Hot water, by no doubt, kills the bacteria, but always check the tag to make sure you don't destroy your socks in the process.
  • Add white vinegar or baking soda: Both serve as natural deodorizers, interrupting odor formation.
  • Say no to fabric softener: Softener can leave a residue, which means more bacteria and odours. 

Hang to dry in a sunny spot: Sunlight kills bacteria, keeping your socks fresher.

Soak into a Deodorising Solution 

Soak into a Deodorizing Solution

If that old pair of socks refuses to stop smelling bad, try soaking them in a homemade deodorizer: 

Super Easy Sock Soak: 

  • 1 part white vinegar + 3 parts water; soak for 30 minutes and wash. 
  • 1 tbsp baking soda in the usual wash cycle means extra freshness. 
  • A few drops of tea tree oil, natural and antibacterial, help trash the smell.
  • A soak for socks every couple of weeks will prevent smells for quite a while. 

Keep your feet fresh and dry.

Keep Your Feet Fresh and Dry

Socks aren’t the only odor culprit; feet also have a say in it! Here is some straightforward advice to keep those feet now and then smelling pleasant: Wash your feet daily with antibacterial soap. Applying foot powder or baking soda also absorbs moisture. Wear shoes that allow breathability and rotate pairs to air them out. Change socks regularly—more importantly, after workouts or lengthy daywear. 

Store Socks Properly. 

Store Socks Properly. 

Despite multiple washes, improper sock storage can cause them to develop a mildew-like smell. To avoid foul smells: 

  • Always ensure that socks are thoroughly dried before being put away. 
  • Store them in a cool, dry place to prevent moisture accumulation.
  • Keep bags of lavender or cedarwood balls handy in your sock drawer for natural fragrance.

Nobody likes poor-quality socks that stink, but with proper care and good-quality socks, one can keep their feet dry and pleasant the whole day. JustFunSocks.com deals in trendy, breathable, and fun socks to help minimize sweat and odor so you can confidently step out! 

To explore our collection, visit JustFunSocks.com.

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