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Why socks?

Socko was founded by Emma, who wanted to combine her passion for understanding how things are made with her skills in knitting and craft. Socks became the ideal product because they are a practical necessity—something people need rather than simply want. Emma’s goal is to create socks in the most sustainable way possible, using reclaimed materials and processes that prioritise the health of the planet and support ethical production practices.

What materials do you use in your socks?

We use reclaimed cotton and wool sourced from mills across the UK. By repurposing unused yarn that would otherwise go to waste, we’re able to create durable, high-quality socks while minimising our environmental footprint.

Are your socks ethically made?

Yes, all of our socks are ethically made in the UK by a family-run factory that has been operating for four generations. We prioritise quality, craftsmanship, and sustainability, and we’re proud to support local manufacturing while ensuring fair wages and safe working conditions. You can read more about our manufacturers here.

Are organic cotton socks better than reclaimed cotton socks?

While organic cotton is often seen as more sustainable than conventional cotton, our socks are made from reclaimed cotton, which is even better for the environment. Reclaimed cotton is sourced from leftover yarns, which reduces waste, saves resources, and diverts textiles from landfills. This circular approach makes our socks both durable and eco-friendly.

Do you have a take-back scheme to recycle old socks?

Yes! Every pair of our socks comes with a needle and thread to encourage reinforcing or repairing your socks instead of throwing them away. However, if your socks are beyond repair, you can send your (washed!) socks to Socko Studio, and we will include them in our monthly textile waste collection, processed by First Mile.

Why don’t you make 100% cotton socks? Are there 100% cotton socks?

While 100% cotton socks exist, they tend to lack durability and stretch. We use a mix of reclaimed cotton, wool, and other fibres to create socks that are comfortable, breathable, and long-lasting. This blend ensures a better fit and makes our socks more resilient to wear and tear.

Why is there a bit of thread or elastic hanging out of the top of my socks? Are they broken?

Not at all! This is quite common due to the traditional machinery we use. Like all knitted yarns, there is always a beginning and an end, and sometimes these ends wriggle out during washing. Please don’t pull them! Simply snip the thread close to the sock, and your socks will be good as new.

Isn’t recycled polyester still plastic?

Yes, recycled polyester is a type of plastic, but it’s made from post-consumer plastic waste like bottles. By using recycled polyester, we reduce the need for virgin plastic, lower energy consumption, and keep waste out of landfills and oceans. It’s a more sustainable option compared to traditional polyester. It also releases less microplastics than virgin plastic but we still recommend washing your socks (and all synthetics) in a Guppyfriend Washing Bag.

Are bamboo socks sustainable?

While we don’t use bamboo in our socks, we understand its popularity as an eco-friendly material. Bamboo grows quickly and requires fewer resources than conventional cotton, making it a sustainable choice. However, the process of turning bamboo into fibre can be chemically intensive, you can read more in our blog post here.

How should I care for my socks to make them last longer?

To extend the life of your socks, we recommend washing them on a gentle cycle in cold water and air-drying them. Avoid using high heat, as this can break down the fibres and elasticity. By following these care tips, your socks will stay in great shape for longer, reducing the need to replace them and minimising waste. Please help yourself to this free Laundry Care Symbols PDF to keep by your washing machine.

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