Keeping white socks clean can be challenging, but there is a simple method to remove stains and brighten the fabric so your socks look as good as new.
An expert from the company “Socks Kick,” Baris Atmaca, says that lemon juice is the secret to restoring white socks to their original freshness.
“Vitamin C found in citrus fruits makes them natural antioxidants. The whitening properties of lemons make them a popular household cleaner as well as a laundry detergent booster. Soaking socks in lemon juice before washing is a common cleaning technique,” he said.
Although bleach is often the first thing people think of when trying to clean stained white socks, it can damage the material, causing it to fade or turn yellow.
Lemon juice, on the other hand, is gentle on fabric while being extremely effective at dissolving stains due to its acidic properties.
Besides removing stubborn stains, lemon juice is inexpensive, non-toxic, and also helps brighten the fabric — meaning your socks will look completely refreshed in no time.
How to remove brown stains from socks using lemon juice
1. Turn the socks inside out** and place them in a bowl or basin filled with warm water.
2. Add three tablespoons of lemon juice for every liter of warm water.**
3. Let the socks soak for at least 15 minutes.**
For tougher stains, you can soak them for 1–2 hours, or even overnight.
4. Transfer the socks to the washing machine** and wash them on a standard cycle.
5. Dry them** either in a dryer or on a clothesline.
After the socks are completely dry, they should appear bright white, fresh, and stain-free. If any stains remain, simply soak them again in the lemon-water solution for a longer period.
