Socko (recycled yarn socks with darning thread)
Socko (Leicestershire) offers socks that are made from recycled cotton, blended with a few synthetics (fishing waste and plastic bottles). These are hand-finished and sold in cardboard packs. Choose from teal, coral or graphite (or mixed sets) or stripey or two-tone socks.
Each pair includes instructions (with colour-matched yarn) on how to darn socks in 10 minutes, to prevent them being thrown away, if they get a snag. Sold in three unisex sizes (by shoe size).
If you find a little threat hanging out the top, the founder says just snip it off (don’t pull it). This brand also sometimes uses reclaimed wool, but there visual symbols to easily avoid, for vegans.
Unless you go barefoot, you likely wear socks most of the year. But most contain synthetic fibres (organic cotton ones to have 5% elastane for stretch).
Launder socks with elastane in a microfiber filter (this helps to stop microplastics leaching out of washing machines, and into the sea).
Synthetic fibres (nylon, polyester) are also made from oil. So we don’t want to be supporting the oil industry, more than is necessary. But sometimes it’s almost impossible, so do what you can. Like choosing brands in plastic-free packaging.
You can place damaged/worn socks in textile banks. These are then shredded to upcycle into insulation and carpet underlay etc.
To make socks last longer, store them flat (don’t ‘cuff’ into each other). Launder with unscented biodegradable laundry detergent and avoid fabric softener and tumble driers. Keep toenails trimmed and wear shoes that fit, to avoid them rubbing holes in your socks!
Babies should not wear socks in warmer temperatures (including in cars), to help reduce risk of SIDS (same with hats). Read more at The Lullaby Trust.
Keep socks away from pets. They smell lovely to animals but could cause constipation, choking or intestinal blockage. Signs of ingestion are lethargy, vomiting, loss of appetite, a tender abdomen and difficulty pooping (it’s a medical emergency, so call the vet).
