White socks can be tricky to get clean again if you are not using the right product (Image: Getty)
Nothing is better than socks during the cold winter weather, but if your favourite pair are looking dingy then there is a simple way to restore them.
Socks often become discoloured due to the oils in sweat , which can deeply penetrate the fabric and make white socks look yellow or grey.
It may seem obvious to whiten socks by bleaching them, but the harsh chemicals in bleach will react to the proteins in sweat which will simply intensify the stains rather than remove them.
Instead, Guillaume, a laundry expert from , has shared that the best way to fix white socks is to ditch normal stain removers and instead look inside your kitchen cupboard.
He said: “ is a powerful ally in the quest for whiteness. Add a tablespoon of baking soda to your regular to remove stubborn stains and restore brightness to your socks.”
:
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
All you need to do is add baking powder to the laundry detergent before you turn on your washing machine (Image: Getty)
It may seem strange, but baking soda is a natural remedy to whiten socks as it is an alkaline substance which can neutralise the acids in sweat stains to help break the stain down.
Baking soda is also abrasive to remove any residue in the socks like dirt or bacteria to help brighten the white fabric once again.
What is also fantastic about baking soda is that it is also a deodoriser, so your socks will smell fresh while also being thoroughly washed.
Don’t miss… [TIPS] [EXPERT] [ADVICE]
White socks will be restored and brightened in just one wash (Image: Getty)
How to use baking soda to whiten socks
All you need to do is add roughly 120g of baking soda along with your laundry detergent to the drawer in your washing machine.
Place your white socks on a cold wash cycle, and the socks should naturally be restored once the laundry is done.
Guillaume said: “Choose cold water instead of hot water. Cold water preserves the white colour by preventing the fibres from fading. Use a quality detergent designed specifically for white colours.”
For particularly bad stains, you can also treat your socks beforehand by rubbing a paste made out of baking soda and water onto the affected area before washing them.
Hang your socks outside if you can as the ultraviolet rays in sunlight can naturally whiten fabric as well and will help boost the power of the baking soda.
Guillaume said: “Sometimes, nature itself can work wonders. After treating the stains, let your socks dry in the sun. The sun’s rays have a natural bleaching effect that can help lighten the fibres of your socks.”
Your socks should now be white and completely clean without having to use bleach. If you are still having trouble whitening socks then consider soaking them which can also lift difficult stains.