Bleach is your number one friend (in my estimation) when it comes to cleaning filter socks. I’ll tell you how I wash mine and have done for years.
Its best to have a circulation of socks going. If you use two filter socks at a time, invest in another 6 or 8. This means that when your socks become clogged, you can throw them in a dedicated bucket. When the bucket is full or to ensure you have cleaned them for the next round, put all dirty socks in the washing machine at the same time.
I use polypropylene filter socks for ease of use and ease of cleaning.
How to clean filter socks with bleach:
- Place all filter socks into the washing machine.
- I add two capfuls of thick bleach to the fabric softener compartment
- Wash the socks at 40°C or less on the shortest wash is best
- Once washed, allow the socks to fully air dry.
It is very important that the socks are allowed to air dry. This will ensure that any bleach residue has fully evaporated and the socks are safe to continue using.
Cleaning filter socks without bleach:
As you would do with bleaching, just wash them in the washing machine without the use of bleach. The downside to washing without bleach is they tend to retain some of the dirt they went into the wash with. When leaving out to dry they can begin to smell, and over time they will become less and less effective.