Socks go hard after washing when they are washed in hard water that leaves and causes a buildup in the socks fibers.
Another reason socks can go hard after washing is when the soil is not completely removed during the washing of the socks.
To soften socks that go hard after washing you should add a tablespoon of bicarbonate of soda or baking soda and some white vinegar or cleaning vinegar.
Both the vinegar and baking soda or bicarbonate of soda will work to soften the socks.
Socks are best washed at water temperatures of no more than 30 F degrees which is the cold setting of water temperature on the washing machine.
You can soak your socks in baking soda and water which will help whiten the socks and remove heavy dirt and stains.
You should soak socks before washing the socks, especially if the socks have stains or heavy dirt.
To soak your socks you should turn the socks inside out and soak the socks in a bucket of water and baking soda or detergent for between 10 minutes to 30 minutes.
Swish the socks around in the baking soda and water or soapy water which will loosen grime and then wash them throw the socks in the washing machine and wash them as normal.
You should not use fabric softener on socks as the fabric softener will leave a waxy coating on the socks when washing them.
The build up of the waxy coating from the fabric softener will wear down the socks faster and cause odors to be locked into the socks fabric and also the socks won't be able to absorb detergent or water.
Stain remover should also never be used on socks or it can also cause the same issues.
Socks do not need softener and in fact it's best to not use softener when washing socks as the softener can leave a waxy coating on the socks.
And then eventually the waxy coating on the socks will wear down the socks and lock in any bad odors as the fabric will not be able to absorb any water or detergent.
To whiten your socks with baking soda, soak your dirty socks in a tub of warm water mixed with baking soda.
Leave them for a few hours before washing them in the laundry with your regular detergent mixed with a little more baking soda.
You should wash socks twice if they are really dirty, although washing socks once is most often good enough to get them clean and get rid of bacteria and fungus.
Socks should be washed after each use.
When you wear socks you can get sweat and bacteria in the socks and wearing the same socks longer than a day or not washing the socks between each use can cause your feet to get bacteria and fungus and even rashes on your feet.
Wearing dirty socks even though they may seem clean can also make your feet smell and your feet hurt.
Even if your feet aren't sweaty, you shouldn't really wear the same pair of socks two days in a row.
The reason being, is your feet contain around 250,000 sweat glands and can excrete as much as half a pint of moisture a day.
Bacteria can thrive on dirty feet and grows rapidly in warm, damp socks.
A bacterial infection can lead to painful wounds, possibly even be life-threatening.
Typically, socks can last between six months to a year if worn once a week.
Socks should be changed regularly to avoid unpleasant smells and athlete's foot (a fungal infection).
Fungus loves warm, damp and dark environments which makes your socks the ideal breeding place.
So you should change your socks at least once per day or more often if your feet are sweating a lot or they get wet.
Wearing socks to sleep comes with very few risks, other than discomfort for those that prefer the feeling of being barefoot.
Be sure to wear socks that are loose, and do not wear compression socks to bed unless directed by a doctor or other medical professional.