How to Keep Allbirds Socks and Insoles Fresh Longer

By Allbirds | Published: 2026-10-15

Category: Tips & Care

A practical routine for washing Allbirds socks and insoles, preventing odor, and extending the life of your favorite pairs without harsh chemicals.

Quick answer

Wash Allbirds socks inside out in cold water on a gentle cycle, then air dry them completely. For insoles, spot clean with mild soap and water, and always remove them from your shoes after wearing to let them dry fully. This simple routine prevents odor and keeps both socks and insoles fresher for longer.

Why socks and insoles need separate care

Socks and insoles trap moisture in different ways. Socks absorb sweat directly against your skin, while insoles sit under your foot and soak up perspiration that passes through the sock. If you only wash your socks but ignore your insoles, odor-causing bacteria can linger in the shoe and transfer back to clean socks. Treating them as two separate care routines—one for washing, one for refreshing—makes the biggest difference.

How to wash Allbirds socks without shrinking them

Turn your socks inside out before washing. This exposes the inner fibers where sweat and dead skin cells collect. Use cold water and a gentle cycle with a mild detergent. Avoid fabric softeners and bleach, which can break down elastic fibers and reduce breathability. If you're hand-washing, let them soak for 15 minutes, then rinse until the water runs clear. Always air dry—tumble drying is the fastest way to shrink wool or tree fiber blends.

How to refresh insoles between washes

Remove insoles from your shoes after every wear. Let them air out in a dry, ventilated spot away from direct sunlight. If they start to smell, sprinkle baking soda on them, let it sit for a few hours, then shake it off. For a deeper clean, wipe them with a cloth dampened with cold water and a drop of mild soap, then wipe again with a clean damp cloth. Never submerge insoles in water or put them in the washing machine—that can warp the foam and break down the adhesive.

Daily habits that prevent sock and insole odor

Rotate your shoes and socks. Give each pair at least 24 hours to dry completely between wears. Wear moisture-wicking socks during sweaty activities, and consider having a dedicated pair for workouts versus everyday wear. If you go sockless, wipe your insoles after each wear and let them dry fully. These small habits stop odor before it starts and reduce how often you need to deep clean.

Your step-by-step fresh feet routine

Step 1: Wash socks inside out in cold water: Turn socks inside out, use a gentle cycle with mild detergent, and skip fabric softener. Hand-wash if you prefer. Checkpoint: Never use hot water or bleach—they shrink fibers and reduce breathability.
Step 2: Air dry socks completely: Lay socks flat or hang them to dry away from direct heat. Tumble drying is the fastest way to shrink them. Checkpoint: Socks should be bone dry before you wear them again.
Step 3: Remove and air insoles after every wear: Take insoles out of your shoes and let them sit in a dry, ventilated spot. This stops moisture from getting trapped. Common mistake: Leaving insoles inside shoes overnight—that’s where odor starts.
Step 4: Spot clean insoles with mild soap: Wipe insoles with a cloth dampened with cold water and a drop of mild soap, then wipe again with a clean damp cloth. Checkpoint: Never submerge insoles or put them in the washing machine—it warps the foam.
Step 5: Use baking soda for odor emergencies: Sprinkle baking soda on dry insoles, let it sit for a few hours, then shake it off. It absorbs lingering smells. Common mistake: Using scented powders or sprays—they can irritate skin and mask odor instead of removing it.
Step 6: Rotate your shoes and socks: Give each pair at least 24 hours to dry completely between wears. Alternate between everyday and workout pairs. Checkpoint: If shoes still feel damp inside, give them another day before wearing.

Allbirds shoes that work well with this care routine

Women's Wool Runner NZ - Natural White (Natural White Sole): The Wool Runner NZ combines the original Wool Runner’s DNA with next-level comfort and more refined styling. Wool naturally resists odor, so pairing these shoes with the sock and insole routine above keeps them fresher between washes.
Men's Runner NZ Slip On - Light Grey (Light Grey Sole): The Runner NZ Slip On delivers lightweight comfort with no laces, a breezy feel, and a sleek profile. The slip-on design makes it easy to remove insoles for daily airing, which is key to preventing odor buildup.