We’ve all been there before: while folding laundry we discover a pair-less sock. Its twin is nowhere to be found in the load and it can be pretty annoying. But it doesn’t have to be this way.
Losing socks can be a blessing in disguise because there are many other uses for them. Socks can act as dusters, arm bands, beverage cozies, and so much more.
While many life hacks don’t work, here are 13 useful things to do with single socks.
Keep car windows from fogging with a sock and kitty litter
You read that right. Kitty litter poured into a mismatched sock can help prevent car windows from getting foggy. It’s a life hack most people probably never heard of, but nevertheless the results are, shall we say, litter-ally awesome. Simply pour the kitty litter into the sock and fill it up to the ankle. Tie a knot to secure it and then slip another sock over it. Place it by your windshield or near your car’s windows and voila! The kitty-litter-sock will absorb moisture and keep windows from fogging.
Clean a dry erase board
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Dry erase boards are gross and most erasers on the market have very short lifespans. Replacing erasers with a sock is not only a better method for clean up, you can also throw it in the washing machine afterwards and use it again and again. You save time, money, and the constant trips to the sink to wash your hands.
Protect valuables while moving
A simple sock can protect small valuables while they’re in transit by acting as a cushion for the items. If they do happen to break, the sock can contain the damage and you’ll avoid any cuts or scrapes to your hands.
Make a stress ball
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If losing the other pair to your sock is causing you stress, use the lonely sock to create a stress ball! Simply shove play dough into a sandwich bag and then place into the sock. It will help you de-stress instantly.
Keep game pieces together
Avoid drama at your next game night. Placing board game pieces into a sock with a knot at the top can keep them together forever.
Create a sweater for your canine friend
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A large tube sock can go a long way to keep your com-paw-nion warm and comfortable this winter. If you’re up for a little bit of cutting and sewing, you won’t need to visit a pet store for a dog sweater. Here’s a good instructional video that can help you design one.
Create cozies for beverages
Let’s face it: most beer or coffee cozies these days are too big or bulky. Simplify and customize your own cozy by cutting the top section off your sock (for your ankle and calf). Don’t forget to measure your mug or coffee cup first before choosing your sock.
Avoid paint stains on floors
Floors can take a beating during home improvement season. If you’re remodeling your living room or giving your kitchen a color upgrade, be sure to slip a sock or two over your shoes. You’ll keep them clean and prevent any damage to your floors.
Make a homemade hacky sack
Everyone’s favorite summer camp game can be made with a mismatched sock by adding rice or plastic beads and securing it with a knot at the top. You can see a more detailed tutorial here.
Make a unique armband for mobile devices
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Have you checked Amazon lately for the price of an armband? They don’t come cheap if you include shipping and handling. Skip the fancy band and use a sock instead. Cut the sock at the ankle and place the tube around your arm. Fold it once and place your device inside. Here’s a quick DIY guide if you’re having trouble creating it.
Leg warmers
Probably the most well known DIY trick, cutting off the toe section of your socks can make for warm and cozy leg warmers.
Dusting
Put down your dusting stick and instead use a mismatched sock. It will trap dirt, hair, and dust on appliances, tables, blinds and any other household object. Plus, once you’re done with it you can throw it in the washing machine and use it again.
Cover ice packs
Applying ice directly on a bump or bruise can do more harm than good. Make your ice pack more bearable by slipping a sock over it and applying it to your injury. It won’t give you a freezer burn and can help you recover faster.
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Mike Iadevaia 
