Can You Dry Heated Socks? (8 Mistakes to Avoid)

Can You Dry Heated Socks? (8 Mistakes to Avoid)

Heated socks are crucial for keeping warm when you’re outside in the winter. But when it comes to keeping heated socks clean, you might be unsure how to handle the integrated technology and specialty materials. Can you dry heated socks? Or will that damage the heating elements?

In this guide, we’ll answer your questions about washing and drying heated socks. You’ll also learn what to do (and what to avoid) if you want your heated socks to last as long as possible.

Are Heated Socks Dryer-Safe? 

Because they still function as regular socks, heated socks are going to see some heavy use. And if you’re wearing them all day, you’ll probably need to wash them before putting them on a second time. The good news is that heated socks are designed to be washable but there’s a trick to drying them to ensure you don’t accidentally damage the heating elements. 

Most heated socks utilize a combination of insulating, moisture-wicking materials and battery-powered heating elements to keep your feet warm and dry. As long as you remember to remove the battery before doing so, you can generally wash and dry heated socks in the same way you would other premium socks

Yes, heated socks are often dryer-safe but it’s important to check the manufacturer’s recommendations just to be sure. It’s always wise to use low heat and to avoid leaving the socks in the dryer too long. Air-drying is also an option.

How to Wash and Dry Heated Socks 

Heated socks are typically designed with thin wires or carbon fibers woven into the fabric. It’s safe to wash, but it’s best to do so gently. Here’s how to wash and dry your heated socks:

Washing Heated Socks

  1. Take the battery out of your heated socks and set it to recharge while you wash them (so they’re ready for reuse when they’re dry).

  2. Place the included waterproof cap over the battery connector and turn the socks inside out.

  3. If you’re washing heated socks with other clothing, consider putting them in a laundry bag for extra protection. 

  4. Use mild detergent and cold or lukewarm water to wash the socks (use the gentlest cycle if you’re using a washing machine).

  5. Carefully squeeze out any excess water after rinsing (don’t wring or twist) and lay the socks out flat on a clean towel. 

Drying Heated Socks

  1. Lay the socks out flat on a clean towel and press gently with the towel to help remove excess water. 

  2. Let the socks air dry in a cool, well-ventilated area—not in direct sunlight or near a heat source. 

  3. If you’re using a dryer, set the machine to the lowest heat setting (or no heat, if possible). 

  4. Check the socks every 10 minutes or so to make sure they don’t stay in the dryer too long. 

  5. Make sure your heated socks are completely dry before putting them away.

8 Mistakes to Avoid with Heated Socks

The key to making sure your heated socks last is to start with a high-quality product. Mobile Warming heated socks utilize the latest fabric technologies and battery-powered heating elements to keep you cozy and comfortable all day long. Made with premium fabrics like merino wool and infused with SweatsheerTM moisture-wicking and OdorsheerTM anti-odor benefits, Fieldsheer Mobile Warming footwear is top of the line.

  • For all-day comfort with reinforced heel and toe support and four adjustable heat settings, Pro Merino Heated Socks could be the perfect fit. If you want your heated socks to work as hard as you do, a high-performance option like Pro Compression Heated Ski Socks could be just what you need. 

Whatever heated socks you choose, if you want to make them last as long as possible, here are some mistakes you should avoid. 

1. Washing without removing the batteries.

While heated socks are generally washable, the batteries are not. It’s crucial to remove the batteries before exposing your heated socks to water. It’s also worth checking to see if your socks came with a waterproof cap to place over the battery connection before washing.

2. Ignoring the care instructions.

Depending on the materials from which they’re made, some heated socks may have specific washing and drying instructions. It’s important to closely follow the manufacturer’s recommendations to avoid accidentally damaging your socks or shortening their lifespan.

3. Twisting them or wringing them out.

Whether you’re washing your heated socks by hand or in a washing machine, it’s wise to treat them gently. Instead of twisting the socks to wring out the excess moisture, squeeze them gently by hand. When you lay them out to dry, you can also press them with a clean towel to help soak up some additional moisture.

4. Using high heat or overdrying them.

If you’re going to use a dryer to dry your socks, always choose the lowest heat setting. It’s even better to use a no-heat or air-dry setting, if your dryer has one. Even if your dryer has automatic moisture sensing, it’s a good idea to check the socks every 10-15 minutes to see if they’re done. Overdrying your socks could cause them to shrink or it could damage the heating components.

5. Washing with harsh detergents or bleach.

Always use gentle detergent when washing your heated socks. Harsh chemicals can degrade the premium fabrics or damage the wiring. Consider using fragrance-free detergent, just to be safe, and avoid any fabric softeners, bleach, or other laundry additives.

6. Storing the socks while damp.

While it’s important to avoid overdrying your heated socks, storing them while they’re still damp can affect their lifespan as well. Putting the socks away while they’re damp could lead to mildew and might damage the electrical components over time. If you’re going to air-dry the socks, this is another reason it’s wise to do it in a cool, well-ventilated area—not somewhere damp.

7. Overcharging the batteries.

With proper use, heated sock batteries can last for quite a while. It’s wise to keep the batteries charged so your socks are always ready to use, but don’t overcharge them. Leaving the battery constantly on the charger could deplete the battery’s lifespan. Refer to the manufacturer’s directions for charging time recommendations and unplug the battery once it’s fully charged.

8. Wearing them with damaged components.

Heated socks are a valuable investment, so it’s understandable that you’ll want to get as much use out of them as possible. However, it’s wise to discontinue use if you notice any signs of compromised function. Torn seams, broken wires, and inconsistent heating may indicate that your heated socks are nearing the end of their lifespan.

Final Thoughts 

Cold weather doesn’t have to be uncomfortable. If you’re looking for a simple solution to boost your winter comfort and enhance performance, heated socks could be the perfect fit. Crafted from premium materials to wick away moisture, lock in body heat, and deliver gentle warmth, heated socks could make your next winter the best one yet.

If you’re ready to get your winter wear collection started, head over to Fieldsheer.com to shop the selection of heated socks. And don’t forget to check out the Compass Blog for more tips!

 

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