How to Wash Merino Wool Socks — and Keep Them Feeling New

Merino wool socks are an investment worth protecting. The good news is that caring for merino is far simpler than most people expect — and when you get it right, a quality pair of merino wool socks can last for years of regular wear without losing their softness or shape.

Here is everything you need to know about how to wash merino wool socks correctly.

Can You Machine Wash Merino Wool Socks?

Yes — and this surprises a lot of people. PITTCH merino wool socks are specifically designed to be machine washable, which is one of the reasons they work so well for everyday life. You do not need to hand wash them or treat them as delicate heirlooms. You just need the right settings.

Machine wash your merino wool socks on a wool or delicate cycle at 30°C or below. Use a gentle, wool-safe detergent and avoid fabric softeners entirely — softener coats the merino fibres and reduces their natural moisture-wicking properties, which defeats the purpose of wearing merino in the first place. Turn your socks inside out before washing to protect the outer surface from abrasion.

What Temperature Should You Wash Merino Wool Socks At?

Keep it cool. Stick to 30°C or a cool hand wash and your socks will come out clean, soft and perfectly shaped every single time.

If you are ever in doubt, cooler is always safer. A 20°C cycle on a wool setting will clean merino socks perfectly well.

Should You Tumble Dry Merino Wool Socks?

Avoid the tumble dryer where possible. Heat is the main enemy of merino wool — it causes fibres to shrink and can permanently alter the shape and feel of the sock. Instead, lay your merino wool socks flat to dry in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight or radiators. They dry remarkably quickly thanks to merino wool’s natural moisture-wicking properties, so you will not be waiting long.

If you must use a tumble dryer, use the lowest heat setting and remove the socks while still slightly damp, then lay them flat to finish drying.

How Often Should You Wash Merino Wool Socks?

This is one of the most underrated benefits of merino wool: you simply do not need to wash it as often as cotton. Merino wool is naturally antimicrobial — the bacteria that cause odour in synthetic and cotton socks do not thrive on merino fibres. Most PITTCH wearers find they can comfortably wear a pair two or even three times before washing, depending on activity level.

This means less laundering, less energy, and a longer lifespan for every pair. It also means merino wool socks are ideal for travel — pack fewer pairs and wash less often.

How to Deal With Pilling on Merino Wool Socks

Some light pilling is completely normal and is a sign of wear, not damage. It happens when fibres rub together and is common with all natural wool products. The simple fix is a fabric shaver or lint roller — a quick pass and your socks look new again. It does not affect performance or warmth at all.

If pilling is heavy, it usually means the socks are being washed too aggressively or at too high a temperature. Dropping down to a gentler cycle resolves it almost immediately.

How to Store Merino Wool Socks

Proper storage helps merino retain its shape and softness between wears. Fold socks neatly rather than rolling them — rolling stretches the cuffs over time. Keep them in a cool, dry drawer away from direct sunlight. If storing long-term, a breathable cotton bag is better than a sealed plastic container since merino benefits from airflow.

Cedar balls are a good natural alternative to moth repellents if you are storing merino knitwear nearby — completely safe for the fibres and far better than synthetic chemicals.

The Reward for Looking After Your Merino Wool Socks

Treat your merino wool socks well and they will reward you with years of exceptional comfort. Unlike cotton socks, which thin and lose their structure after a season, a well-cared-for pair of PITTCH merino wool socks holds its shape, retains its softness and performs just as well in year three as it did on day one.

Browse our full range of men’s merino wool socks and women’s merino wool socks — all machine washable, all built to last. And if you are stocking up, our bundle deals save you up to 10% when you buy three or more pairs.

For more on the science behind merino wool’s natural properties, the Woolmark Company’s care guide is an excellent resource.