Key Takeaways
It is common to see pilling on sweaters in wool. This phenomenon is due to wear of the fibers under the effect of friction. To avoid or remove, solutions exist such as using a pilling razor, a short program in the machine or washing in the hand with a detergent special wool.
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Introduction to pilling and lint
The appearance of pilling on sweaters in wool or cashmere can be very annoying . These little lints that form on the fabric give a worn appearance to the clothing and can even lead to unsightly holes. Fortunately, it is possible to prevent and treat this problem of fragile textiles.
Here's everything you need to know about pilling in sweaters and how to fix it to prolong the life of your precious sweaters.
Understanding the phenomenon
What is pilling ?
A pilling refers to all the small lints which appear on the surface of a fabric, most often on a sweater in wool. We also sometimes speak of “pilling” in English.
These pilling appear in the form of tiny balls of hair which group together. They are formed by the fraying of the fibers on the surface of the garment, which roll up on themselves.
At first, the pilling is barely visible and simply gives a fluffy appearance. But with rubbing, they grow and multiply, giving an unsightly worn effect to the sweater.
The fibers in question
All textiles are not equal when it comes to pilling. fabrics known to be fragile are much more subjects, in particular:
- wool: one of the most affected fibers. Especially fine wools like cashmere.
- delicate fibers: angora, alpaca, mohair...
- knits with looped effects: fleece, fleece...
On the other hand, synthetic fibers such as polyester or nylon are very resistant to pilling. The same goes for high quality combed cotton .
- What a pilling material ? Discover it here.
The types of sweaters most likely to pilling
Certain sweaters present a greater risk of developing pilling:
- wool sweaters not treated with anti-pilling treatment
- The sweaters purchased in stores of poor quality
- Sweaters worn and washed very regularly
- The clothes put in the tumble dryer
- Areas of friction: armpits, armholes, lower back...
Also read: Complete guide to Polyester and Pilling.
How to remove pills from fabric ?
There are different techniques for removing unsightly pilling from a sweater:
Manual methods
- Pilling razor: this tool equipped with small blades allows you to remove pilling cleanly by shaving the surface of the fabric .
- Pilling brush: the adhesive or hard bristle brush removes lint effectively.
- Pumice stone: rubbing gently helps to eliminate the pilling without damaging the sweater.
- Adhesive tape: a piece of tape allows you to remove the pilling.
- Fine comb: simply pass the comb in the opposite direction of the stitches to detach the pilling.
Also read: Viscose and Bouloche ? What is the risk.
Specific tools
Certain devices are designed specifically to remove pilling:
- Electric deflocculator: it uses rotating blades to shave lint.
- Garment steamer: the steam loosens the pilling which are then vacuumed up.
- Machine to unpilling: it grinds the pilling using abrasive discs.
Grandma's techniques and tips
Here are some traditional tips against pilling:
- Sandpaper: much less abrasive than its reputation, it allows to rid the fabric of unsightly lint.
- Soapy water bath: soaking the clothing in water with a few drops of Marseille soap removes the pilling.
- Freezing: placing the pull for a few hours in the freezer makes the pilling brittle and easy to remove afterwards.
Consult in detail the long list of ways to remove pills from a fuzzy sweater.
Prevention and maintenance
It is possible to prevent the appearance of pilling using a few simple actions:
How to avoid pilling on a new sweater ?
Here are our tips and tricks for preventing pilling on a new sweater.
- Choose fabrics of high quality such as virgin wool or cashmere pure.
- Avoid the tumble dryer which damages the fibers and accelerates the formation of pilling.
- Wash by hand with detergent special wool, rinse well and dry flat.
- Store the sweater folded or on a hanger to avoid friction.
The right wash to avoid pilling
- Use liquid detergent for wool, more soft.
- Wash by hand in lukewarm water.
- Choose a short program at low temperature if washing in machine.
- Please respect the maintenance advice on the label.
- Avoid softeners which alter the fibers.
- Dry flat, without wring.
Advice for optimal maintenance
- Turn the sweater regularly to use all the stitches.
- Quickly remove emerging pilling with a razor or a brush.
- Wash delicate clothes by hand and use a suitable detergent.
- Air the sweaters frequently and store them unfolded.
When and how to wash your sweatshirt ?
Conclusion: sweater that fluffs and pills
The appearance of unsightly pilling on your favorite sweaters is not inevitable. By taking care of clothing and adopting the right maintenance actions, it is entirely possible to prevent or treat them efficiently. Don’t hesitate to test the different techniques presented to extend the life of your wardrobe. Your sweater will regain its original fluffy appearance!
Discover at the same time the difference between sweatshirt and sweater.
FAQ
Why is my sweater pilling ?
The appearance of pilling is common on sweaters in wool or cashmere. It is caused by wear of fibers which fray under the effect of repeated friction. tumble drying, frequent wearing and unsuitable washing accelerate the phenomenon.
How to avoid pilling on a new sweater ?
To prevent the appearance of pilling on a new sweater, it is recommended to opt for high quality fibres , avoid tumble dryer, wash by hand with mild detergent and dry flat.
Why are my clothes pilling ?
Certain fabrics such as wool, cashmere or angora tend to pilling at because of their fragile fibers.friction during wearing and washing wears out the garment and causes pilling.
How to wash a sweater without pilling ?
To wash a sweater without accelerating the formation of pilling, it is recommended to use a special wool detergent, to wash with hand or in machine at low temperature, rinse well and dry flat without wring.
Does pilling damage the sweater ?
The pilling does not directly damage the fabric of the sweater but gives an unsightly worn and fluffy appearance. If they are not treated, they end up accumulating and cause holes.
Can pilling be completely avoided ?
It is difficult to completely prevent pilling on fabrics delicate such as wool. But we can significantly reduce it by taking care of the clothing.
How to quickly remove pills ?
The pilling shaver makes it easy to eliminate unwanted lint. The adhesive brush is also very effective for quick unpilling.
Should you wash sweaters that pill differently ?
Yes, it is recommended to use a detergent special wool without softener and to wash by hand or in machine at low temperature for fabrics delicates that pill.
What materials do not pill ?
Certain textiles are much more resistant to pilling such as synthetic fibers (polyester, nylon...), high quality combed cotton quality or even tight knits in cotton and polyester. fabrics composed mainly of these fibers have less tendency to pilling.
Updated 10 January 2024
