Stains are much more prominent on white socks and can be difficult to remove if you do not use the proper cleaning technique. 

It may seem like a good idea to use bleach to wash white socks, but this can worsen stains as the chemical will react to any sweat in the fabric which can cause them to turn yellow. 

Instead, Jahid Hasan, an expert from Hamlet Laundry, has shared that it is better to use a natural solution to remove sock stains and that lemon juice can be incredibly effective on white laundry. 

He said: “In a world where we’re constantly bombarded with products promising whiter whites and brighter brights, it’s easy to forget that sometimes, the simplest solutions are the best. You don’t need a fancy, chemical-laden detergent to get your clothes clean.”

Lemon juice contains citric acid, which will react to protein-based stains such as dirt or sweat by breaking them down so they will completely dissolve.

Lemon juice is not only a natural stain remover but also has natural bleaching and antimicrobial properties, so it will both whiten and sanitise white socks. 

Jahid said: “When you’re looking to keep your clothes fresh and bright without resorting to harsh chemicals, lemon juice steps up as a powerful, natural alternative.”

How to get rid of tough stains on white socks using lemon juice 

All you need to do is apply lemon juice directly to any stains on the white fabric. For stubborn stains, make sure to use freshly squeezed lemon juice as it will be more potent. 

After applying the lemon juice, sprinkle a generous amount of salt on the stains as well. 

Salt draws moisture from the stains to help lift it out of the fabric and is also antiseptic which can aid in cleaning the socks. 

Leave the lemon juice and salt to sit on the sock stains for at least 30 minutes to give the mixture time to break down the stains. 

Once the time is up, throw the socks in the washing machine and place them on a regular cycle used when washing white clothes. 

If you have any more lemon juice left over, add some directly to the detergent dispenser of your washing machine drawer. This will help brighten the socks and make them look brand new again. 

After washing, if it is possible, hang the socks outside in the sun as ultraviolet rays will react to the citric acid to help further break down the stains. 

Jahid said: “The combination of lemon juice and sunlight acts as a powerful natural bleaching duo, enhancing the whitening effect and leaving your clothes looking their best.”

When you go to collect your socks from the laundry line, not only will the stains be removed, but they will also be bright white, fresh, and smell incredible.