It’s inevitable – your brand new or favourite pair of socks will become seperated. And the one you actually find will sit in a drawer, hopeful for it’s mate to return – when in reality, it never does and you end up throwing it away. Instead, we’re here to tell you that you should try these 5 surprising uses for those lonely socks first, before the final step.
5 Surprising uses for socks that have lost their match
1. DIY Heating pad
A single sock, some rice and an elastic band (or, if you’re up to it, some thread and a needle) are all you need to create a make-shift heating pad. Make sure to use 1 cup or so of raw rice – any brand or type will do – and a thick lonely sock (the thinner materials are also fine, but won’t keep for too long before wearing out, not to mention that thicker socks retain the heat better). Simply microwave as you would any beanbag/heating pad and you’re set.
2. Pot pourri or sachets
Put all those single, lonely socks to better use by making them smell nice, instead of keeping them stored in a cupboard in case you find their mate. Filling them with nice scents, and, of course, their small size, make them the perfect vessel for adding wonderful smells to your drawers and cupboards.
Simply add a cup or so of your favourite dried herb, like lavender or rosemary, drop a couple drips of essential oil to match, secure with an elastic band (or, again, use a needle and thread) and you’re set! You can customise the smells however you’d like, for example, stuffing the sock with your favourite pot pourri instead of dried herbs, or even simpler, stuffing the sock with a few cotton balls dripped with your favourite combination of essential oils.
They work (ironically) to keep your sock drawer, underwear drawer, cupboard where you keep clothes and jackets hanging, even your tupperwear cupboard, smelling fresh for a good month or so before needing a refresh.
3. Keeper of small items
Single socks really come in handy for brand new devices, like a phone or new headphones. They’re soft enough that whatever item you pop inside won’t get scratched or damaged. Not to mention how they fit in almost any bag, drawer or cupboard you pop them into. While maybe not a long-term plan for keeping your new phone’s screen scratch-free, single socks can become lifesavers – esepcially for small items like earrings, necklaces, and even cards.
4. Pet toy
Even though the toys from the pet store have a lot more appeal, single socks will save you some money and keep your cat or dog very happy. Simply stuff it with some cotton balls or even other single socks to beef it up, and secure tightly with some thread and a needle – you wouldn’t want it unravelling in 2 minutes when using an elastic band. For cats especially, pop some catnip inside to give your DIY toy some edge to it.
Ensure you’re using a thick sock, like a woolen one. The thinner bamboo and cotton socks won’t last as long when teeth and claws are involved. Also, keep an eye on the state of the toy and repair any holes or loose thread when needed (or just stuff it into another lonely sock).
5. Hand duster
You don’t need to run to the store and buy the top duster – you’ve already got one lying in a cupboard or tumble dryer! Most socks, especially cotton and bamboo ones, make for the perfect duster. They easily fit onto your hand, can be used dry or wet, and help you get into hard-to-reach places more easily. Use them to dust shelves, baseboards, TV screens, cupboards and artwork.
