The most common complaint about grip socks isn't the grip when they're new. It's that the grip seems to fade after a few washes. The good news: that's almost always down to how they're washed, not the socks themselves. Here's how to keep the non-slip sole working for as long as possible.
Are grip socks machine washable?
Yes, most grip socks are machine washable. The silicone grip is durable enough for a normal wash cycle. What shortens its life is heat and certain laundry products, not the washing machine itself. A few simple habits make the difference between grip that lasts months and grip that fades fast.
How to wash grip socks the right way
Follow these steps and the grip will hold up far longer:
- Turn them inside out. This protects the silicone grip from rubbing against everything else in the drum.
- Wash cool. Cold or warm water is fine; hot water is what breaks silicone down over time.
- Skip the fabric softener. Softener coats the grip and is the single biggest reason socks go slippery. Avoid it.
- Use a gentle cycle if you can, and a mesh laundry bag for extra protection.
- Air dry. Lay them flat or hang them. High heat in the tumble dryer is the fastest way to ruin the grip.
What makes grip socks lose their grip
If your Pilates socks aren't sticky anymore, the usual culprits are:
- Fabric softener build-up coating the silicone.
- Hot washes or hot tumble drying degrading the grip.
- Lotion, oil, or residue transferring from your feet or the floor.
- Simple wear over time, especially if you only ever wear one pair.
Can you revive grip socks that have stopped gripping?
Sometimes. If softener residue is the problem, a wash in cool water with no detergent or softener (or a small splash of white vinegar) can strip the coating and bring some grip back. Make sure the soles are completely clean and dry before your next class. If the silicone itself is worn smooth, though, no wash will restore it, and it's time for a fresh pair.
Make them last
Two habits extend the life of any grip sock: wash them gently as above, and rotate between two or three pairs so no single pair wears down in one spot. A small set lasts far longer than one pair worn every session.
If your current pair has seen better days, our Pilates grip socks use a durable non-slip grip sole built to survive regular washing. Browse the full grip socks range to top up your rotation, and see our Pilates grip socks guide for more on choosing a quality pair.
