Over time, socks and apparel degrade the more they get used. Socks in particular are more frequently rotated than other garments making them more susceptible to wear. Combined with constant friction from shoes and other surfaces, socks may need replacing more often.
Instead of throwing out worn socks, learn to make them useful again. Here are a few examples of how you can reuse and repurpose old socks.
Donating Old Socks
One of the best and easiest ways to extend the life of moderately worn socks is to donate them. Seek out your local thrift store so your socks can then be given to someone in need or purchased at a low price.
Crafting With Old Socks
You may remember using household items to build dioramas or holiday decorations in grade school. Continue the tradition of crafting at home using old socks as inspiration for new creations.
- Sock Dolls
- Sock Animals
- Sock Puppets
Using Old Socks for Home and Garden
Instead of using kitchen towels or microfiber rags, consider substituting them for clean, old socks to complete various household tasks.
- Dusting
- Cleaning
- Protecting delicate items
Not only do old socks have ample utility inside the home, but they can be used for gardening.
- Protecting plants
- Filling with soil for starting seeds
Upcycling Old Socks
Upcycling means taking a lesser item and reusing it to create something new. Old socks are a great resource for creating new textiles or apparel.
- Sock hats
- Sock scarves
- Sock pouches
Now that you have a few ideas of what to do with your old socks, get creative! Keep in mind how your old socks can be used around your home, be upcycled, or be given to someone in need.
For more tips and tricks, follow along with the Injinji blog. In the meantime, check out our new sustainable socks, made from recycled cotton and post-consumer plastic bottles.
