If you’ve ever bought natural fibre clothing or socks, you’ll know that shrinkage is often a concern. Wool, for example, can shrink easily if washed incorrectly. But what about mohair, the fibre we use to make our Capricorn Mohair Socks?
In this article, we’ll answer the question: does mohair shrink? And more importantly, how should you care for your mohair socks to make sure they last for years.
What is Mohair?
Mohair comes from the fleece of the Angora goat. It’s known as the “diamond fibre” because of its natural sheen, strength, and luxurious feel. Unlike wool, the fibres are smoother, which makes mohair less itchy and more resistant to felting.
These properties are why mohair is such an excellent choice for socks – it’s durable, naturally breathable, and helps to prevent blisters.
Does Mohair Shrink?
The short answer is: mohair is far less prone to shrinkage than wool.
This is because:
- Mohair fibres have a smoother surface, so they don’t easily interlock and felt together in the wash.
- Mohair is naturally elastic, so it can stretch and return to its shape better than many other natural fibres.
- High-quality mohair (like that used in Capricorn Mohair Socks) is spun and knitted in a way that helps it maintain its size and fit.
That said, mohair can still shrink if it’s treated harshly, especially at high temperatures. Hot washing, tumble drying, or aggressive detergents may cause some shrinkage or distortion.
If this is the case a top tip is to soak the sock in hair conditioner, this will loosen the fibres back up.
How to Wash Mohair Socks Safely
To keep your mohair socks in the best condition:
- Wash at 40°C or below – a gentle machine wash is absolutely fine.
- Avoid tumble drying – air drying is always best.
- Use mild detergent – harsh chemicals can damage natural fibres.
- Do not wring or twist – simply squeeze out excess water gently.
By following these simple steps, your Capricorn Mohair Socks will hold their shape, resist shrinkage, and last for years.
Why Mohair Socks Are Different
At Capricorn Mohair Socks, we’ve worked with expert UK knitters to produce socks that combine performance with durability. Because mohair resists shrinking, stretching, and odour build-up, it’s the perfect fibre for everyday wear, long walks, or outdoor work.
So, while wool socks might lose their shape over time, mohair socks stay comfortable and reliable.
Final Thoughts
So – does mohair shrink? Not easily. With the right care, your mohair socks will stay the same size and shape for years to come. That’s one of the reasons we believe mohair is one of the best fibres for socks – practical, hardwearing, and naturally luxurious.
If you’d like to experience the benefits for yourself, take a look at our full range of UK-made mohair socks
For more tips on caring for your socks and answers to other common questions, take a look at our full Capricorn Mohair Socks FAQs
