Comfyballs are designed to be more durable than standard boxers, but following these steps will ensure they stay comfortable and maintain their fit for a long time.
Underwear
Washing Instructions
Temperature: All models should be washed at 40°C.
Color Sorting: Always wash with similar colors (lights with lights, darks with darks).
Red Items: Wash red boxers separately for the first few cycles, as they are most likely to bleed color.
First Wash: If you have sensitive skin or allergies, it is recommended to wash the boxers before wearing them for the first time.
Lower the spin speed: High spin speeds (1400+ RPM) can aggressively stretch and pull the fabric while it’s wet. Set it to 800 or 900 RPM to be gentle on the elastic.
Drying (Tumble Dry)
Cold Air Only: You can use a tumble dryer on the Cold setting.
Avoid Heat: Do not use high heat settings in the dryer, as this can damage the fibers and elasticity.
Fabric Softener
Unnecessary: Unlike many other brands, fabric softener will not damage Comfyballs. However, it is generally not needed to maintain their softness.
Performance Model Note: While softener won’t hurt the fabric, using it on the Performance model (polyester) can sometimes “clog” the moisture-wicking fibers, which might affect breathability or lead to trapped odors over time.
Pro Tips for Longevity
Wash Inside Out
Turning your boxers inside out before washing protects the outer fibers from friction. This helps prevent pilling (those small lint balls) and keeps the colors looking vibrant for much longer.
Use a Mesh Laundry Bag
Even though Comfyballs are durable, a laundry bag protects them from getting snagged on zippers, hooks, or buttons from other clothes. It also prevents the fabric from being overstretched during the spin cycle.
Air Dry Whenever Possible
While they can handle cold tumbling, air drying is the gold standard. Heat is the biggest enemy of elastic fibers. Over time, heat makes the waistband brittle and lose its “snap.” Hanging them to dry ensures they keep their original shape for years.
Don’t Overload the Machine
If the washing machine is too full, the detergent cannot be rinsed out properly. Soap buildup can make the fabric feel stiff and trap bacteria, which may lead to persistent odors, especially in synthetic fabrics like the Performance model.
Smart Stain Removal
Blood: Always rinse immediately with cold water. Hot water sets the protein in blood into the fibers, making the stain permanent.
Yellow Stains/Odor: A mix of water and a little white vinegar can help break down sweat stains and neutralize odors without damaging the fabric.
Store Them Flat
Avoid rolling the waistband tightly when putting them in your drawer, as this keeps the elastic under constant tension. The best way to store them is to fold them flat to let the fibers rest.
Socks
Temperature: Finding the Balance
Daily Wash (40°C): This is ideal for preserving the 2% elastane. It keeps the socks tight around your ankles for much longer.
Hygiene Wash (60°C): Since they are 80% cotton, they can handle 60 degrees quite well. Use this if you struggle with foot odor, infections, or if the socks are heavily soiled. Note that the elastic will wear out faster with frequent high-heat washes.
Detergent and Fabric Softener
Regular Detergent: Standard liquid or powder detergent works perfectly for this blend.
Skip the Fabric Softener: Just like with your boxers, softener breaks down the elastane fibers. If you use it often, the socks will eventually lose their “snap” and start sliding down your legs.
Wash Inside Out: This removes dead skin cells and sweat from the inside more effectively and prevents pilling (the small lint balls) on the outside caused by the polyester rubbing against other clothes.
Drying (Crucial for Longevity)
Air Dry is Best: This maintains the fit and prevents shrinkage.
Tumble Drying: They can survive it because of the cotton, but the polyester and elastane don’t like it. If you must use a dryer, use a low heat setting. High heat is the main reason socks shrink and lose their stretch over time.
Pro-Tips for Longevity
Avoid High Spin Speeds: A medium spin (around 1000 RPM) is enough. Excessive spinning can stretch out the cotton fibers while they are heavy and wet.
The “Vanishing Sock” Trick: Use a small mesh laundry bag specifically for your socks. This prevents them from getting stuck inside duvet covers or behind the rubber seal of the washing machine.