The sock provided a considerable challenge for conservators. Finely ground silt was embedded in the sock, so the first stage was to clean it. A thin polyester film support was made for the inside of the sock. It was soaked in a weak solution of water and non-ionic detergent, very carefully washed and then rinsed in de-ionised water. This released much of the silt.

The sock was dried in cool air and a polystyrene support replaced the film. The delicate job of re-shaping the sock now had to take place to get rid of ancient creases, and to enable researchers to reconstruct its original shape. This was done by dampening, pinning and drying the fabric, section by section. Torn edges were delicately drawn together with fine thread and tiny pins. Finally the ancient fabric was sandwiched between two layers of fine netting, dyed to match the sock, and a firm inner support was made to hold the sock in shape.