Samsung did a study on sock loss to promote their was.h.i.+ng machine that can add socks during the wash.

Where to look for missing socks:

Behind/under the was.h.i.+ng machine

In other people's dresser drawers

In you own drawers between other clothes (may also be inside pockets/sleeves

Under beds/furniture

Inside a toy box

Check the toaster

On your feet

Inside the was.h.i.+ng machine (sometimes they just stick to the side and go unnoticed) You might even need to take apart your was.h.i.+ng machine to find them.

Both top-loading and front-loading washers are capable of allowing a sock to exit the drum and get trapped in areas not normally visible or accessible to the user. In that case you would need to take apart your washer, but that comes with the risk of braking it. The easiest way to not lose your socks to your was.h.i.+ng machine is by never was.h.i.+ng them. By removing the contact period, you eliminate the threat.