What To Do With Old Socks: 21 BRILLIANT & Clever Ideas (2024)

Wondering what to do with old socks? Don’t throw your holey socks away! I have the ultimate list of the best ways for repurposing your socks and disposing them – the eco-friendly way.

Who else has tons of pairs with just one of each sock? (where they all go is such a mystery!). As someone who goes through many pairs of socks each year, I’ve discovered many ways on how to reuse old socks and turn them into something useful.

Textile waste takes up 7% of the total landfill space – that’s a big problem.

So in this post, I’ll cover all the different uses for old socks including crafts from old socks, where to donate old socks, and how to repurpose old socks.

I’ve got 21 different things to do with old socks so let’s get into it!

What To Do With Old Socks: Recycling, Upcycling & More

1. Donate Unworn Socks

Socks are among the top most frequently requested items at homeless shelters. So if you have any unworn or gently used socks, donate them!

But if you have big holes in your socks, donating wouldn’t be the best option. Maybe consider some other options I listed below.

Donating to homeless shelters: Most of the time, homeless shelters need brand-new socks.

Donating to local thrift stores: If you have gently used socks, consider bringing them to a local thrift store instead. They often time will accept good quality, gently used socks.

Similarly, people normally won’t want your old worn socks so it’s hard to sell them online.

2. Recycle Old Socks

Some recycling organizations accept socks and they will recycle them for you. Here are some common recycling organizations:

Terracycle: Terracycle has a Zero Waste Box that lets fill up the box with your socks and other items. Then, you send it back to Terracycle and they’ll recycle it for you.
Earth911 Search Tool: Earth911 has a convenient search tool that lets you search the closest recycling center near you.

Don’t worry if your socks have huge holes in them because you can recycle them!

3. Recycle Socks At Retailers

If you don’t have any recycling centers near you, check out your nearby sustainable retailers. They might be able to take your old socks and recycle them for you.

I find it amazing when sustainable fashion brands not only ensure the materials are good for the environment, but they also ensure they’re properly disposed of to create the least environmental impact.

Not many retailers take socks but here are a few that do:

Smartwool: Smartwool launched a program called Second Cut. They take your unwanted socks and turn them into a new product. The only exception is the socks need to be clean. All brands and colors are accepted. They also send you the recycle kit for free.
Knickey: Knickey teamed up with supercircle to help you recycle socks, underwear, and bras. They’ll also give you $15 off your next order.

4. Sew Socks With Holes

What to do with old socks with holes? Try to sew them closed before tossing them!

Even with just mediocre sewing skills, it’ll be a quick fix. Here’s a quick tutorial for sewing your holes.

All you need is a thread in the same color as the sock, a tennis ball, and a needle.

5. Compost Socks

As last resort, compost your socks so you can reduce waste! I say save this as last resort because it will take a while for your sock to fully decompose.

Also, only natural fabrics like organic cotton, hemp, wool, linen, silk, and bamboo fabric can be composted.

Make sure there are no synthetic fabrics like polyester, nylon, or rayon because those materials cannot break down.

To compost your socks, you need a compost bin and worms. Cut your socks in small pieces so it speeds up the composting process.

6. Repurpose Socks

Arguably, repurposing your socks is the best strategy for what to do with socks. You’re giving it a second life that’s functional.

How to repurpose old socks? I have some sock upcycling ideas for you below. Specifically, 15 genius ideas.

7. Use As Sock Puppets

One fun and creative way to repurpose them is by turning them into sock puppets. All you need is a little creativity and some basic craft supplies.

First, gather some googly eyes, felt, fabric scraps, and glue. Cut out shapes for the mouth, nose, and any other features you want to add. Then, glue or stitch them onto the sock to create your puppet’s face.

You can also use markers or fabric paint to draw on more details. Here’s an easy video tutorial to follow.

8. Use As Dust Rags

I love using my old socks as dust rags. I use it to dust my furniture, shelves, houseplants, and get rid of cobwebs. It’s really easy to use too because you just slip these socks over your hand and start wiping away.

Once it gets dirty, just pop it into the laundry machine and it’ll come out clean and ready to be used again.

I sometimes even use some floor cleaner to wipe the ground.

9. Use As Pet Toys

Old socks can be turned into cute pet toys your furry one will love. Cat toys and dog toys are super simple to make. Just fill your sock with treats or catnip. Your pets will love the texture and scent of the sock. It’ll also keep them entertained for hours.

This is a really sustainable and cost-effective way to keep your pets happy.

10. Use As DIY Heating Pad

Turn your old socks into a DIY heating pad. It’s a great idea to add warmth on chilly days. All you need to do is fill the sock halfway with rice or flax seeds, tie a knot at the end to secure it, and microwave it for a minute or two.

I find it best to add a tiny bit of water inside the sock to prevent the sock from burning.

The sock is able to retain heat and give you soothing relief for aches. I even add natural essential oils to make it smell amazing.

11. Use Old Socks To Make Sock Bun

The sock bun hairstyle was a huge trend years ago but it still can be used today. A sock bun is adding a bun in your hair that’s hidden away to make it look like your hair has a ton of volume.

Here’s a helpful tutorial that will make more sense when you watch it.

12. Use As Sock Stuffed Animals

Just like how you turn your old socks into sock puppets, you can also turn socks into stuffed animals!

All you need are some basic sewing skills and a few materials like buttons, thread, and stuffing. Some ideas for stuffed sock animals are sock monkeys, teddy bears, or even sock rabbits.

I love this step-by-step tutorial on making a sock cat.

13. Use As Arm Warmers and Leg Warmers

This is a very practical use of old socks and it’s so easy to make.

Just cut off the toes and slide them up your arms. Instantly gives you an extra layer of warmth during chilly days or when it’s chilly outdoors.

14. Use Old Socks To Remove Nail Polish

It’s so wasteful to go through dozens of single-use napkins to remove nail polish. So why not use your old socks instead?

It’s also thicker so you’re able to remove your nail polish more easily. With a napkin, it seems to break so easily.

15. Use Old Socks To Deodorize Your Shoes

We all know how deodorants work on our skin but have thought about deodorizing other smelly areas – like your shoes?

Old socks are perfect for deodorizing your shoes. Just place some natural odor deodorizer into your sock and stick it into your shoes. You can buy odor removers but common household items work well too.

Try using used coffee grounds or baking soda.

16. Buff and Polish Shoes

One surprising use case of old socks is to use them to shine your shoes.

Apply polish to your shoes and rub it in. After the polish dries, buff it with a sock side to side. This will make your dress shoes really shiny.

17. Use Old Socks As Ice Pack Cover

If you ever need an ice pack but don’t want to freeze your hands, use old socks as an ice pack cover.

Just place the sock over the pack and make sure it fits snugly so it doesn’t come off easily.

18. Use To Protect Fragile Items

Since socks are super soft in texture, they can be used to protect fragile items. Maybe you have glass containers that need extra protection? Try wrapping a sock around it.

It kind of acts like bubble wrap, but of course, it’s the most sustainable option.

19. Use As Hand Warmers

Like the DIY heating pad, old socks can be used as hand warmers. You basically follow the same DIY process as making heating pads. The only difference is it’ll be for your hands. This is perfect for winter when it’s super chilly.

All you need to do is fill socks halfway with uncooked rice. Then, sprinkle in a bit of water. Wrap it up, and microwave for 30 seconds. Here’s a detailed tutorial.

20. Make Scented Sachets

Scented sachets are so easy to make and they smell so good.

To make it, fill your socks with dried lavender, rose petals, or your favorite potpourri. Then, tie a knot at the end to secure it. I like placing these scented sachets in my drawers, on my nightstand, and in my car to keep everything smelling fresh.

21. Protect Golf Clubs

Have you seen golf club covers? They pretty much look like long socks.

So if you have golf clubs at home, why not use your unwanted socks as golf club covers? Just slide the socks over and it can protect your clubs from damage.

How To Make Socks Last Longer

Of course, the most sustainable way is to extend the life of your socks. I have some easy tips on how to make your socks last longer.

Buy high quality socks. Socks made with natural and recycled materials like cotton and wool are more durable. High-quality socks usually have reinforced toes or heels. They’re also slightly thicker.
Use a gentle detergent. Harsh detergents can break down the fibers of your socks more quickly. Use a natural laundry detergent instead.
Wash socks with cold water. Hot water can weaken your socks and shorten their lifespan.
Mend small holes quickly. If you ever see a small hole or thread coming out, sew it together quickly! This will prevent bigger holes from appearing.
Wear mismatched socks. What to do with old mismatched socks? Wear them! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve lost one sock in the pair. If we discarded it, that would be a huge waste. So embrace the style of the mismatched socks!

Final Thoughts On What To Do With Old Socks

Living a sustainable lifestyle isn’t just about buying new eco friendly socks or choosing new clothes made with eco friendly materials. It’s also about using what you currently have to the fullest before buying new.

There’s an incredible amount of repurposing and upcycling projects you can do with socks. The ideas are endless.

If you found this guide of clever uses for old socks helpful, feel free to share it with friends and family who may buy new socks a little too often!

Frequently Asked Questions About What To Do With Old Socks

Should you donate or throw away socks?

It’s definitely much better to donate your socks! However, many homeless shelters only accept unworn socks. Thrift stores usually want new socks or very gently worn socks.

If your socks have significant signs of wear, it’s best to try to recycle them or upcycle them with fun DIY sock projects.

What to do with old wool socks?

If your socks are 100% wool or have a natural blend of wool and cotton, you can recycle them, compost them, or upcycle them.

What should I do with old socks that have holes in them?

The first thing to try if your old socks have holes in them is to sew the holes. If you don’t want to sew them or the holes are too big, you can try recycling them!

How can I use old socks for cleaning tasks?

Old socks can be a great cleaning tool. I love using it as a duster or as cleaning rags. I just stick my hand inside the sock and wipe off dust around the house.

Are there any gardening uses for old socks?

Yes! You can wipe the dust off your houseplants using an old sock. Old socks can also be used as seedling protectors to protect young seedlings from pests. They can also be used as trellis ties, pot scrubbers, sock wreaths, bird feeders, knee pads for when you’re doing gardening work, or even tool storage.

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