How to Remove Pilling From Clothes
What Is Fabric Pilling?
Fabric pilling happens when fibers on the surface of clothes start to rub together, break, and tangle, forming tiny balls or “pills” on the fabric’s surface. This process is more common in certain types of fabrics, like wool, polyester, and blends, where the shorter fibers tangle more easily. While pilling doesn’t harm the fabric, it can certainly affect how your clothes look, making them appear worn out or untidy.
4 Causes of Fabric Pilling on Clothes
There are several reasons why fabric pilling happens. By understanding the causes, you can better prevent and manage it. Here are the most common factors that lead to pilling:
1. Fabric Composition
Some materials are more prone to pilling than others. Fabrics made from synthetic fibers such as polyester and nylon are highly susceptible to pilling due to their short fibers. Cotton and wool can also pill but usually to a lesser extent.
2. Friction
Friction is the main culprit behind pilling. When two fabrics rub together, whether it’s during washing or while you’re wearing the clothing, the fibers break, causing them to form small, tangled balls.
3. Washing and Drying
The way you wash and dry your clothes also affects pilling. Aggressive washing, like using high spin speeds or tumble drying at high heat, can break down fibers and cause pills to form.
4. Age of the Fabric
Over time, natural wear and tear occur on clothes. Older fabrics will show signs of pilling more readily than newer materials due to the fabric weakening over repeated washes and wearings.
6 Ways How to Prevent Pilling on Clothes
Before diving into how to remove pilling, it’s essential to talk about prevention. Keeping clothes from pilling in the first place is always easier than dealing with pills after they’ve formed. Here are some simple steps you can follow to reduce pilling:
1. Turn Clothes Inside Out Before Washing
One of the easiest ways to prevent pilling is to turn your clothes inside out before washing them. By doing this, you protect the outer layer of fabric from rubbing against other garments or the walls of the washing machine.
2. Use a Gentle Cycle
Washing your clothes on a delicate or gentle cycle can reduce friction. The less movement in the washing machine, the less likely fibers will break and tangle into pills.
3. Use a Fabric Softener
Fabric softeners help coat the fibers in your clothes, making them smoother and less prone to friction. This simple addition to your laundry routine can make a big difference in reducing pilling.
Downy Fabric Softener
Gain Fabric Softener
4. Air Dry When Possible
The tumble drying process can be quite rough on fabrics, leading to pilling. Air drying your clothes not only helps to extend their lifespan but also reduces the chances of pilling.
5. Use Cold Water
Washing in cold water is gentler on fabrics than hot water, preventing fiber breakdown. Cold water also helps keep your colors from fading, another bonus!
6. Wash Similar Fabrics Together
Avoid mixing fabrics like denim and delicate cotton in the same load. The rougher fabrics cause more friction, which can lead to pilling. Grouping similar fabrics together helps reduce this.
7 Ways to Remove Pilling From Clothes
If your favorite shirt or sweater is already covered in pills, don’t worry — you can still restore it. Several methods can help remove pilling effectively and safely without damaging the fabric.
1. Sweater Comb
A sweater comb is another useful tool that can remove pills. These combs are designed to brush away pills gently. Simply run the comb over the surface of your clothes, and the pills will be removed with minimal effort.
2. Scissors or Razor
If you don’t have a fabric shaver or comb handy, a pair of scissors or a razor can do the job. However, you must be very careful not to cut the fabric itself. Gently use the scissors to snip off the pills, or glide the razor lightly over the surface to shave them off.
3. Sticky Tape
For smaller areas, sticky tape can also be effective. Wrap the tape around your fingers, sticky side out, and press it onto the affected area. The pills will stick to the tape and be lifted off the fabric.
4. Fabric Shaver or Lint Remover
A fabric shaver (also known as a pill remover) is one of the easiest and most effective ways to remove pilling from clothing. It works by gently shaving the surface of the fabric, cutting off the pills without harming the underlying fabric. Simply glide the shaver over the affected area, and it will quickly remove the pills.
BEAUTURAL Fabric Shaver and Lint Remover
5. Pumice Stone
Although it’s typically used for exfoliating skin, a pumice stone can also help with pilling. Gently rub the stone over the fabric to remove pills, but be cautious not to apply too much pressure.
DISIWENE Pumice Cleaning Stone
6. Velcro Rollers
Surprisingly, a velcro hair roller can work in a pinch. The small hooks on the roller grip the pills and lift them away from the fabric without causing damage
7. Laundry Detergent with Enzymes
Using a laundry detergent that contains enzymes can help break down fibers responsible for pilling. Over time, these detergents help minimize pilling by keeping the fibers intact and smooth.
FAQs
1. Can pilling be completely prevented?
While you can reduce the likelihood of pilling by following the preventative steps mentioned, some fabrics are naturally prone to pilling over time due to their fiber composition.
2. Is pilling more common in cheaper clothes?
Not necessarily. Both high-end and budget-friendly clothes can pill, depending on the type of fabric. Synthetic blends and loose-knit fibers tend to pill more, regardless of price.
3. Do certain washing machines cause more pilling?
Top-loading washing machines with agitators are more likely to cause pilling compared to front-loading machines, which tend to be gentler on clothes.
4. Will a fabric shaver harm my clothes?
No, fabric shavers are designed to safely remove pilling without damaging the fabric. Just be sure to use the shaver gently and according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
5. How often should I remove pilling from my clothes?
You should remove pilling as soon as you notice it to prevent it from worsening. Regular maintenance, like gentle washing and air drying, can also reduce the frequency of pilling.