Can Heated Socks Be Washed? (& How to Do It Properly)

Whether you’re heading out for a winter hike, packing your ski gear for a day on the slopes, or just working through your daily to-do list on a chilly afternoon, heated socks can help keep your feet warm and cozy. 

Heated socks combine the comfort of soft, moisture-wicking fabric with warming technology to keep your toes toasty no matter how cold it gets outside. Just like the standard socks in your drawer, however, they get dirty after a long day of wear. But can heated socks be washed? 

Yes, heated socks can be washed. You’ll need to take a few precautions, however, to ensure they remain in good condition for winters yet to come. Keep reading to learn how to properly wash your heated socks along with other tips for keeping them in optimal working condition. 

The first step in caring for your heated socks is understanding how they work. While regular socks keep your feet warm by conserving body heat and wicking away moisture, heated socks utilize battery-powered heating elements to deliver active warmth. 

Heated socks represent an innovative class of functional footwear with benefits for a wide range of applications. Popular among winter sports enthusiasts, heated socks are ideal for activities where foot warmth is essential such as hiking, hunting, skiing, and snowboarding. They also provide gentle and consistent warmth for individuals who work in cold conditions and those with circulatory conditions like Raynaud’s syndrome. 

Though designs vary, heated socks consist of three core components: heating elements, rechargeable batteries, and a control unit. Heating elements are typically concentrated in crucial areas like the toes and sole while batteries are stored in a discreet pocket for easy access. Some heated socks are operated with a simple on/off switch while others offer more advanced or even remote control via smartphone. 

While it’s a good idea to check the label before washing heated socks, most can be washed safely by hand. Machine washing may also be an option, though you’ll need to take certain precautions to protect your socks. 

Follow the steps below to wash your heated socks by hand or in the washing machine. 

1. Remove the battery from your heated socks. While you’re at it, you might as well set it to recharge. 

2. Cover the battery connector with the waterproof cap that came with the socks. 

3. Turn the socks inside out and consider placing them in a mesh laundry bag to help protect them from damage. 

4. Set the washing machine to the gentlest cycle and use cold or lukewarm water only to avoid damaging the heating elements. 

5. Use mild detergent and avoid bleach or fabric softener. 

6. Once the cycle is complete, lay the socks flat on a clean towel to air-dry or machine-dry on the low or no-heat setting. 

1. Remove the battery pack and cover the connector with the waterproof cap that came with your socks.

2. Fill a basin with cold water and add a small amount of mild detergent.

3. Stir the water to create a soapy solution then add your socks (turn them inside out first for a more thorough clean).

4. Submerge and swirl the socks through the water. Avoid squeezing them or putting too much pressure on the heating elements.

5. Once clean, rinse the socks thoroughly with cold water to remove all traces of soap.

6. Gently squeeze out the excess water by pressing the socks between your hands—don’t twist or wring them out, as this can damage the heating elements. 

7. To dry, lay the socks flat on a clean towel or machine-dry on the low or no-heat setting.

With proper care, your heated socks should last through many uses. It’s important to be gentle when cleaning your socks, and always take care to cover the battery connector before getting your socks wet. Here are some additional tips for keeping heated socks in good condition:

• Make sure your socks are completely dry before storing them. Moisture can damage the heating elements and leave your socks smelling like mildew. 

• Always disconnect the battery before storing heated socks for an extended period of time. It doesn’t hurt to place the waterproof cap on the battery connector as well. 

• Charge the battery regularly, even if you’re not using your socks. This helps maintain battery health and ensures that it’s fully charged when you’re ready to wear the socks.

• Take care to avoid stretching your socks when washing them. If you’re using a washing machine, always use the gentle cycle and wash your socks with a small load.

• Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for further care instructions, as different models may have unique specifications. 

No matter how careful you are with your heated socks, they may develop odor over time. The good news is that you can easily deodorize them without damaging the materials. Try sprinkling baking soda inside the socks before washing or add a half cup of white vinegar before starting the wash cycle. 

Heated socks are an investment in your personal comfort, so honor that investment by taking good care of your socks. Keeping your socks in good condition ensures they’ll keep your feet warm and comfortable during each and every wear. 

Shop the collection on Fieldsheer.com and find more tips for wearing and caring for heated socks on The Compass Blog.