How to Loosen Socks

How to Loosen Socks
Published: Aug 2, 2011
Updated: Jan 10, 2019
1 minute read
...
Jupiterimages/Polka Dot/Getty Images

Tight socks can ruin a perfect day. They can create indentations around the calf and constrict circulation, causing the ankles to swell. Tight socks can irritate pre-existing leg conditions because the elastic in the sock is new and tight and meant to stay firm. Choosing good-fitting socks is the best solution but stretching the socks with heat and force also solves the problem. The best way to apply high heat is with an iron, hot water, a hot dryer or blow dryer.

...
Keith Brofsky/Photodisc/Getty Images

Apply heat to the socks for about 10 minutes with a hot dryer or iron, very hot water or blow dryer. Rubberized elastic changes its property when heated to high temperatures, which is why you'll have more success if you stretch the sock while it's warm.

...
Photos.com/Photos.com/Getty Images

Stretch the socks around a big cup or another object that is similar to the size of your leg. As the elastic cools, the sock will take the shape of the object.

Remove the sock from the object when completely cooled.

Fold the pair of socks into each other to form a ball after cleaning as this will help keep socks loose.

Photo Credits

Jupiterimages/Polka Dot/Getty Images

Sponsored
Our Everyday Life Logo

Explore our everyday life, the best source for food and drink tips, health and general wellness, healthy relationships and much more.

Property of TechnologyAdvice. © 2026 TechnologyAdvice. All Rights Reserved

Advertiser Disclosure: Some of the products that appear on this site are from companies from which TechnologyAdvice receives compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site including, for example, the order in which they appear. TechnologyAdvice does not include all companies or all types of products available in the marketplace.