Diy Sock Aid: Easy, Quick, And Affordable Solution (2025)

Sock aids are assistive devices that help people with limited mobility put on their socks. They are particularly useful for those who have recently undergone knee, hip, or back surgery, or those with a limited range of motion in their upper body. This simple device can be made at home using everyday items such as plastic bottles or magazines. In this guide, we will explore the steps to make your own sock aid, helping you gain independence and ease when getting dressed.

Choosing the right plastic bottle

The strength of the plastic is another important factor. Choose a bottle made of strong, durable plastic that can withstand the weight of a sock being placed over it without collapsing in on itself. The Gatorade bottle, for instance, is known for its sturdy construction.

The shape of the bottle is also worth considering. Opt for a bottle with a uniform diameter throughout its length, as this will facilitate smooth sliding of your foot. Avoid bottles with tapered shapes or those that are significantly narrower at the neck, as they may hinder the insertion and removal of your foot.

Additionally, look for a bottle with a smooth surface. A smooth plastic surface will allow the sock to glide on and off easily, reducing friction and the risk of snags or tears. Also, consider the bottle's cap or opening. A wider opening can make it easier to put on the sock and manoeuvre your foot into the device.

Lastly, while choosing a plastic bottle, consider its colour and transparency. A clear or translucent bottle can help you see the inside, making it easier to position your foot correctly and ensuring the sock is properly aligned. Keep in mind that the chosen bottle should be easy to cut and manipulate, ensuring a safe and comfortable experience when using your DIY sock aid.

Cutting the bottle to size

Cutting the bottle to the right size is a crucial step in building a sock aid. It ensures that the device fits your foot comfortably and functions as intended. Here is a detailed guide on how to cut the bottle to size:

First, using a pocket knife or box cutter, cut off the top and bottom parts of the bottle. This will create an open cylinder shape from the bottle. Choose a strong plastic bottle, such as a Gatorade bottle, to ensure the sock aid can support the weight of the sock and your foot without collapsing.

Next, you'll want to cut a section of the bottle to the appropriate length for your foot. Using scissors, cut a 2-3 inch segment from the bottle, ensuring that your foot can slide through it comfortably. This will be the main tube of your sock aid, so make sure it is wide enough to accommodate your foot without being too tight.

Now, you'll create the handles by cutting two small holes near the ends of the bottle, close to where you made your initial cuts. These holes should be large enough to accommodate your chosen rope or cord.

The final step in cutting the bottle to size is to wrap the cut edges with tape. Use clear tape first, wrapping it securely around the cut edges of the bottle to smooth out any sharp or rough spots. Then, use duct tape to reinforce the clear tape and add extra durability.

Now that the bottle is cut to size, you can move on to the next steps of assembling your sock aid.

Adding non-slip material

Adding a non-slip material to your sock aid is essential to ensure that it is effective and safe to use. Here are some detailed instructions on how to add a non-slip liner to your DIY sock aid:

Choosing the Right Bottle

Start by selecting a strong and sturdy plastic bottle, such as a Gatorade bottle. Ensure that the plastic is thick enough to support the weight of your foot and that it is not too tight around your foot. A wider bottle may be needed for wider feet.

Attaching the Non-Slip Liner

Once you have the right bottle, you can add a non-slip liner to the backside of your sock aid. One option is to use a non-slip shelf liner, such as the Con-tac brand mentioned in one source. You can also try adhesive spray to attach the liner to your bottle. Make sure to find a strong glue that will not dry hard and cause discomfort when walking.

Alternative Methods

If you do not want to use a liner, there are other ways to create a non-slip surface. For example, you could try using rubber bathtub pieces or puff paints to create a textured surface. Alternatively, you could explore fabric options, such as the Non-Skid Rubber Treated Fabric, which can be sewn onto the bottle to create a flexible non-slip sole.

Testing and Adjustments

After attaching your chosen non-slip material, test the sock aid to ensure it functions as intended and does not slip. If adjustments are needed, try using a different type of glue or adhesive spray to improve the liner's adhesion. You may also need to adjust the tightness of the sock aid around your foot by using a different-sized bottle or adjusting the placement of the ropes or handles.

Attaching the handles

Firstly, select an appropriate rope or cord for the handles. It is recommended to use a rope that is strong and durable, yet comfortable to grip. Measure out approximately 62 inches of this rope and cut it into two equal halves, resulting in two 31-inch individual ropes.

Next, prepare the plastic base for handle attachment. Using a box cutter or knife, create two holes near the ends of the plastic base. These holes should be large enough for your chosen rope to fit through easily. Be cautious and careful when using sharp tools.

Now, feed one end of each rope through the respective holes. Once the rope is through, create a secure knot at the end to prevent the rope from slipping back out. Ensure that the knot is tight and sturdy.

After both ropes are securely knotted, wrap the area where the rope meets the plastic base with tape. First, use clear tape to secure the rope in place, then add an extra layer of protection with duct tape. This will reinforce the handle attachment and ensure that the handles can withstand some tension when pulling on the sock aid.

Finally, test the handles by gently pulling on them and ensuring they are securely attached. Adjust the length of the handles as needed for a comfortable grip. You may also consider adding built-up foam handles, which provide a wider gripping surface and help reduce stress on the joints of your hands.

By following these steps, you can effectively attach the handles to your sock aid, bringing you one step closer to gaining independence and ease when dressing.

Testing the device

Before testing the device, ensure that you have contacted your occupational or physical therapist to see if the DIY sock aid is suitable for your needs.

To test the device, place a sock over the bottom of the bottle, or the opening furthest from the handles, and slide the sock up until the toe of the sock is flush with the device. If your sock aid has handles, the sock should rest just before them. Place the sock aid on the ground and insert your toes and foot into the sock aid, using the handles if your device has them. Pull up on the ropes or handles until the sock is over your heel and your foot is fully inside the sock.

If you are using a magazine as a sock aid, roll up the magazine and slide it into the top of the sock to hold the sock wide open. Push your foot into the opening and pull the sock up onto your foot. Then, slide the magazine out and finish pulling the sock up.

If your sock aid is too tight, you may need to use a wider, sturdy plastic bottle or a different type of plastic base to accommodate a wider foot. If the plastic is not strong enough, it may collapse once a sock is placed on the device. To prevent this, ensure that you are using a strong, repurposed plastic bottle, such as a Gatorade bottle. You can also try adding a non-slip shelf liner to the backside of the sock aid to provide more stability when pulling on the sock.

Once you have tested the device and ensured that it works properly and is comfortable to use, you can continue to use your sock aid to help you put on socks more easily.

Frequently asked questions