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EcoCult included Cariloha bamboo socks in their article, “These are the Best Non-Toxic and Eco-Friendly Socks”, which they talk about benefits of natural materials, sustainable packaging, non-toxic dyes and finishes and much more. EcoCult is a leading source for information on non-toxic and sustainable fashion and receives for more than 120,000 unique monthly visitors.
These are the Best Non-Toxic and Eco-Friendly Socks
By EcoCult Staff
Socks might seem like the most insignificant part of your wardrobe, but they can make a huge difference in your comfort throughout the day. If your feet tend to get itchy when you wear colorful synthetic socks, it’s time to pick up some pairs made with natural fibers and skin-safe dyes.
Plastic-based socks don’t just leave your shoes smelly. In addition to trapping odors, the azo-benzene disperse dyes used on polyester are known skin sensitizers, and can be carcinogenic when absorbed through the skin (which is especially an issue with socks, as they migrate to your skin even faster when you sweat in them.)
But don’t worry–switching to certifiably safe socks doesn’t necessarily mean you have to lose the fun patterns. Our list of non-toxic socks includes both undyed and colorful options for every level of sensitive skin (and style.)
Natural Materials: If you’re sensitive to synthetics or have skin problems, the best thing you can do for feet is to wear socks made from 100% natural fibers. Most socks have at least some elastane for stretch, so finding pairs without any synthetics are really rare and hard to find.
However, there are a couple of brands on this list (Cottonique and Arms of Andes) that pull it off. Aside from these brands, it’s safe to assume the socks contain at least a small amount of synthetics that probably won’t cause irritation, but we’ve noted the ones that contain 20% or more.
Merino and alpaca wool make fantastic socks because they’re naturally odor-resistant and moisture-wicking. Check for labels from the Responsible Wool Standard (RWS) which ensures it was harvested without mulesing, a painful technique where the skin is cut off the sheep to protect them from blowflies laying eggs in their skin. Organic cotton, Tencel, linen, and bamboo viscose are comfortable and breathable options too.
If you aren’t sensitive to synthetics, you can go with a blend that contains recycled materials such as nylon and polyester, but we still recommend opting for ones made with majority natural fibers.
Non-Toxic Dyes & Finishes: If you have a sensitivity to dyes, you’re in the right place. Several brands on this list have a selection of undyed socks that embrace the natural colors of the fibers.
For socks that are dyed, look for certifications from Oeko-Tex and labels from bluesign to be sure that the dyes and finishes used don’t contain hazardous substances. You can also look out for brands with a restricted substances list, which shows they pay attention to their chemical management.
Traceable & Ethical Supply Chain: Check if the brand manufactures ethically by looking for transparency in its supply chain. If it doesn’t share the locations of its supply chain partners, you can also look for certifications from Fair Trade, WRAP, and B Corp.
Sustainable Packaging: While socks are relatively small items that don’t need much protection, some brands still use heaps of plastic to package them in. To reduce waste with your new socks, look for brands that use compostable or biodegradable packaging, or recycled and recyclable materials.
You can also check for certifications from the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) to be sure the paper and cardboard used were sourced responsibly.
Cariloha
What we love: This certified B Corp makes hypoallergenic socks from bamboo viscose and organic cotton. Its Oeko-Tex and Fair Trade-certified bamboo is sourced from China, and it uses FSC-certified paper packaging.
Price Range: $10-$15 for singles, $30-$45 for bundles.
Available in: The U.S., Australia, and Canada.
Read more from EcoCult here.