JUST to add to your already-long to-do list, now a UK microbiologist has revealed you are probably washing your socks wrong.
According to Dr Primrose Freestone, sock-covered feet create the perfect environment for bacteria to thrive because they are warm, dark and humid.
"Feet can be a host for up to 1,000 different bacterial and fungal species, some of which can eat the sweat your feet produce, and their malodorous waste metabolites are what cause smelly feet, socks and shoes," Dr Freestone said.
Some of the bacteria is harmless, while others can be potentially dangerous pathogens such as staphylococcus, which can lead to staph skin infections, causing blisters and abscesses.
The secret to washing your socks is washing them inside out at 60C, and using an enzyme-based detergent to break down the sweat and skin residue.
Then, it might seem OCD, but ironing them afterwards will kill any remaining microbes.
"The enzymes detach the bacteria from the weave of the sock fibres, and the high temperature kills the bacteria and fungi which are adapted to living at human foot temperature," said Dr Primrose.
"If your washing machine cannot manage a 60C sock-microbe-killing temperature wash, then a hot iron will do the job - especially if the steam function is used."
The above article was sent to subscribers in Pharmacy Daily's issue from 04 Aug 25
To see the full newsletter, see the embedded issue below or CLICK HERE to download Pharmacy Daily from 04 Aug 25
