Apple’s iPod managed to make its way into many stockings during the festive season. The svelte music player is beautifully designed, but how do you keep its appearance pristine once you remove it from the box? Can it be done without overly compromising either its aesthetics or usability?

Socks are a great way to protect an iPod while in transit and still providing some access to the controls at the same time. They help prevent cosmetic damage from abrasion and scratches and also combat some shock and intrusion damage. This makes them ideal for keeping your MP3 player safe while in a pocket or a bag, and still allow you to easily remove the case to show the iPod off in all its glory when you get to your destination.

Right now the Apple ecosystem is hoping you will run off to buy the official iPod socks from an online retailer, or failing that you might find some cheap alternatives on eBay. Or you could do what I did and DIY.

If you are a parent you can start by heading to your child’s wardrobe, otherwise make your way to your nearest children’s clothing retailer.

The key to this whole exercise is finding the right sock. If you are old enough to be reading this post then your own socks will be too large and will look decidedly home made if used. I’ve had best results with socks for an infant (sized for <= 1 year old), but make sure they are both stretchy and warmer autumn or winter socks so they have some thickness to them. This ensures they provide some padding but can still expand to completely cover your iPod.

You don’t actually have to make any modifications. This project is DIY because you are using the socks for a purpose other than was originally intended by the designer. Slide the sock onto your iPod and you are done!

Not only is this solution affordable, but you have a huge range of styles to chose from, and will have a spare case if your main one starts to look a bit worn!