Socks stink after washing

Socken stinken nach dem Waschen

Hello everyone

I have been wearing the "sit and fit" knee socks for a long time. I have about 40 of them because I don't want to wash them out by hand every evening. When I've had enough, I put them in the washing machine at 40°, as it says on the packet.
Unfortunately, they always smell awful after washing. I can't really identify the smell. More like "chemicals". I have tried various detergents. Nothing helps. I keep the washed socks in a thin plastic bag, also from Migros, and pick out the right 2 every evening.

What could be causing this stench? And is there anything I can do to stop it?
Many thanks for the clarification.

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All replies (15)

Frederica

Hello @alphabetta

...from the bacteria.

As you store the used socks, the bacteria multiply. A 40°C wash will not kill them. This requires a 60°C wash cycle.

Kind regards
Frederica

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sirio60

I don't think bacteria are responsible here. My socks stay in the laundry basket for up to 14 days before I wash them at 40 degrees with the TOTAL liquid detergent "one for all". Nevertheless, I have never had this problem.

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alphabetta

So, I don't think it can be due to "bacteria". I don't wash the other items of clothing individually and collect them. They don't stink. So it must be due to these special socks.
Incidentally, I also have real compression socks, which don't stink after washing.
I would really appreciate it if you could tell me what the problem is and how I can avoid it.
Thank you very much.

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alphabetta

By the way, I changed the name, the previous one gave me the system ?

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Guest

Hey @alphabetta

Can you tell me the item number? Is it item number 8312.093 fine knee sock "Sit&Fit"?

Best regards

Ivan

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alphabetta

Yes, that's the number. I have tried various colors. None of them help. Hm.

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moz79

Dear aphabetta

I don't know why that is. I always put a dash of vinegar in the wash instead of fabric softener (my LAG can't stand it). And we both work with safety shoes, so the socks stink terribly (even without being stored).

Maybe that also helps against the chemical smell?

Greez moz

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alphabetta

Hello moz

Do I understand correctly that you are wearing the same socks?
I don't use fabric softener because they are compression socks.
How much vinegar do you put in the washing machine? Doesn't it smell of vinegar afterwards?

Kind regards

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moz79

No, I wear ordinary cotton socks. I just put a dash of vinegar in the compartment for fabric softener. No, the laundry doesn't smell of vinegar afterwards.

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Kommentator

@Frederica
I agree, because unpleasant, sour odors in this regard usually have to do with certain bacteria that feed on certain components of sweat. Underwear, which includes socks, should be washed separately from other laundry and at a temperature of at least 60 degrees Celsius. If this temperature is not desired, a hygiene additive could be considered. However, this is associated with a possible environmental impact. This should actually also apply to T-shirts that come into contact with areas of the body that are prone to perspiration, such as the armpits.

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