Polyester and Pilling: Complete Guide to Optimal Maintenance

Introduction to polyester pilling

Pilling, also called pilling, is the unpleasant appearance of small balls or lint on clothing. This is a common problem, especially on polyester fabrics. Also encountered on acrylic or fiber blends, the phenomenon of pilling can harm the appearance and lifespan of clothing. Fortunately, it is possible to prevent and treat pilling through appropriate textile maintenance. Discover in this comprehensive article the causes and solutions to prevent your polyester clothes from linting.

At The Oversized Hoodie®, we know how pilling can affect the appearance and longevity of your favorite clothing, including our Hoodie Blankets and fleece tights. Thanks to this complete guide, you will have the keys to taking care of your textiles with complete peace of mind.
— Geoffrey, Founder of The Oversized Hoodie®

Also read: What pilling material? Complete guide

Understanding the pilling phenomenon

Pilling refers to the progressive appearance of small balls on the surface of the fabric, due to the fraying of the threads. Under the repeated action of friction, the fibers are gradually torn from the yarn and clump together to form unwanted fluff.

Several factors can cause or worsen the phenomenon of pilling on clothing:

• The composition of the fabric in synthetic fibers such as polyester, acrylic or polyamide.
• The length of the fibers: the less they are long, the more they tend to form fluff.
• The loose or irregular structure of weaving threads.
• Repeated rubbing on sensitive areas such as the armpits, collar or hem.
• A wash cycle that is too aggressive, with drying at high temperature.

Although unsightly, lint does not alter the technical properties of the fabric. However, they can weaken the garment in the long term. Fortunately, it is possible to prevent and reduce pilling with a few precautions.

Also read: Does viscose pill ?

The role of polyester in pilling

polyester is one of the champions of pilling. Its characteristics make it a fiber particularly prone to this phenomenon:

• The smooth structure of polyester makes it sensitive to repeated friction.
• Its composition of relatively short fibers makes it easier to tear them off.
• Its synthetic nature makes it more fragile in the face of aggressive washes.

Thus, even good quality polyester will sooner or later end up pilling under the combined effect of these factors. However, not all polyester clothing reacts the same way. The precise composition of the fabric, its structure and its treatment also influence its tendency to form pills.

The relationship between synthetic fibers and pilling

Polyester, acrylic and polyamide: pilling champions

Pilling mainly affects synthetic fibers such as polyester, but also acrylic and polyamide (nylon). In fact, their smooth and regular structure makes them more susceptible to fraying. Conversely, natural fibers like cotton or wool resist friction better thanks to their irregular surface.

However, some looser cotton or wool weaves may also pill. It is then the structure of the yarn that is in question, rather than the nature of the fiber.

The influence of fiber length on pilling

The shorter the fibers are, the more they tend to form lint under the effect of friction. In fact, it is easier to tear off a fiber a few centimeters long than a fiber several tens of centimeters long.

This is why weavings based on long fibers such as silk, linen or long-fiber cotton are more resistant to pilling.

The mixture of fibers: a cause of pilling

fabrics mixing different types of fibers are more prone to pilling. In fact, repeated friction causes the fibers to separate: some remain attached to the thread, others break away in the form of fluff.

This is the case, for example, of a cotton/polyester blend fabric, or even a blend of different synthetic fibers. Opting for a 100% cotton, polyester or other textile helps limit friction between fibers and therefore pilling.

Also read: How to Wash Acrylic Fabrics?

The consequences of pilling on clothes

The appearance of lint on clothing causes several inconveniences:

• Alteration of the visual appearance with these small balls on the surface of the fabric
• Unpleasant sensation to the touch
• Risk of lint sticking to other textiles
• Long-term weakening of the tissue
• Premature wear of clothing

If areas of intense friction such as the armpits or the collar are affected, the textile can even be perforated under the abrasive action of the lint.

Although pilling does not fundamentally alter the structure of the fabric, it reduces its aesthetics and longevity. It is therefore appropriate to quickly adopt preventive measures at the first signs of fluffing.

Why do some polyester sweaters pill more than others?

Not all polyester clothing reacts the same way to pilling. Several factors linked to the quality of the textile influence the speed at which unsightly lint appears.

The role of fabric quality in pilling

A polyester of good quality resists friction and fraying of the fibers better over time. Indeed, a weaving that is sufficiently tight and regular makes it possible to consolidate the structure of the yarn and to hold the fibers together.

Conversely, a loose weave with irregular threads stretches quickly under the mechanical action of wearing and washing. The fibers are then easily torn off to form these characteristic little balls.

How does the yarn structure influence pilling?

Some polyester yarns are more compact and smooth than others. However, a rough or porous surface retains the fibers better and is more resistant to friction. A smooth yarn stretches more easily, causing lint to form.

Similarly, a yarn made of short fibres tends to let go more easily than a yarn made from long fibers. The choice of material will therefore influence the resistance of the fabric to pilling.

External factors that promote pilling

Even a good quality polyester fabric can develop lint if it is repeatedly subjected to:

• Intense rubbing at the collar, armholes or hems.
• Excessive washing or drying temperatures.
• Abrasive contact with zippers, buttons and other accessories.
• Frequently wearing jewelry or a handbag that rubs against clothing.

Thus, everyday actions contribute to weakening the textile and accelerating the formation of pilling.

How to avoid pilling on a polyester sweater?

A few precautions when caring for and wearing the garment can limit the appearance of unsightly lint.

Precautions to take when washing

When washing, avoid:

• Temperatures that are too high which weaken the fibers. Prefer a maximum of 30°C.

• Laundry detergents containing bleaching agents or bleach which weaken polyester.

• Softeners which leave a greasy deposit trapping lint.

• Machine drying which causes friction and excessive heat.

The importance of drying to avoid pilling

After washing, dry your polyester sweater in the air, away from the sun. Drying flat avoids tensions that could tear the fibers.

If you use a dryer, choose a gentle cycle and remove the garment as soon as the cycle ends.

Regular maintenance: a solution to avoid lint

Gently brushing the garment after each wearing helps to remove dust, hair or lint before it becomes embedded in the fabric.

To remove the small balls that have already formed, use a curling razor or a clothes brush special for delicate textiles. This regular maintenance will prevent the proliferation of unsightly lint.

How to remove lint from polyester clothing?

Despite all the precautions taken, pilling may appear on a polyester sweater or dress. Here are some techniques to eliminate them.

Manual techniques for removing lint

Use a soft-bristled clothes brush or a pilling razor by sliding the accessory towards the bottom of the garment. Avoid sideways movements which could damage the fabric.

Adhesive tape can also occasionally remove lint from clothing. Apply and gently remove strips of tape from the surface of the textile.

Using specific tools to remove lint

Certain accessories are designed specifically to remove lint from clothing:

• The clothes brush for delicate textiles
• The electric battery unblocker
• The ceramic unblocking stone

Lightly dampen your garment before using these tools to help remove pilling.

Grandma's tips for removing lint

Gently rub the surface of the fabric with an ink eraser type eraser or a sheet of fabric softener. Static electricity attracts and holds lint.

You can also brush your garment outside in humid weather: the humidity in the air prevents lint from re-attaching to the fabric.

Solutions to prevent pilling on polyester clothing

In addition to appropriate textile care, it is possible to prevent the appearance of lint thanks to:

The choice of polyester quality

Opt for a polyester made with regularly woven long fibers, guaranteeing better resistance. Fine-knit polyester jersey is better than loose-knit fleece.

Also favor items that are certified non-pilling or have received an anti-stain and anti-pilling treatment.

Applying an anti-lint primer

Some spray finishes create a thin protective film to prevent friction from damaging synthetic fibers. They are used on clean, dry clothing.

Prevention of pilling by fiber treatment

Textile manufacturers can treat the fibers by thermosetting to consolidate the outer scales. This technique effectively prevents pilling and increases the longevity of the fabric.

Conclusion

Pilling is a common phenomenon on clothing made from polyester, acrylic or polyamide. It is caused by the progressive detachment of the fibers under the action of friction.

To prevent and treat this unsightly problem, remember to adapt the maintenance of your textiles:

• Cold washes
• Dry flat
• Regular brushing

The choice of a quality polyester and the application of an anti-lint finish optimize the resistance of the garment to pilling.

Also, some extra precautions can help. For example, avoid rubbing your handbag or jewelry against your clothing. Store your sweaters in polyester in your wardrobe with a pillowcase in silk to limit the friction. Or, choose when purchasing products whose manufacturing process includes a carding step of the fibers. These tips help extend the lifespan of the textile.

With the advice in this guide and a little TLC, your clothes will look like they did the first day. As always, we are committed to supporting you so that style and comfort are always there.
— Geoffrey, Founder of The Oversized Hoodie®

FAQ

Does polyester pill?

Yes, polyester is one of the synthetic fibers particularly prone to pilling. The smooth structure of polyester makes it susceptible to fraying from repeated friction.

How to remove pilling from polyester?

Several solutions: use a razor with curls, a special clothes brush for delicate textiles, an electric pill remover or even strips of adhesive tape. Brushing the garment regularly also helps remove lint before it becomes embedded.

Why does polyester pill?

Polyester pills because of the smooth structure of its fibers which fray easily under friction. Its relatively short fibers are also more easily torn from the yarn than long fibers.

Which fabric does not pill?

The fabrics most resistant to pilling are linen, silk, long-fiber cotton or even wool with a sufficiently tight weave.

How to avoid pilling on a new sweater?

To avoid pilling on a new sweater, wash inside out at low temperature, dry flat and gently brush the garment. Avoid sources of friction such as jewelry or handbags.

How to prevent clothing from pilling?

Adopt gentle washing and drying, carry out regular maintenance with a clothes brush or a pilling razor. Choose natural materials like cotton or quality synthetics.

How to avoid lint on a coat?

In order to avoid lint on a coat, opt for a coat with a sufficiently tight weave, in wool for example, and avoid rubbing clothing with scarves or jewelry. Brushing it regularly also helps remove fluff.

How to prevent a lint sweater?

Wash the sweater inside out at low temperature and dry flat to avoid tension. Choose a suitable material such as cotton or wool with a dense weave. Brush the garment regularly

Sources

[1] "What is Pilling in Fabric", Testex

[2] "5 Tips to Prevent Clothes from Pilling", Good Housekeeping

Updated April 4, 2024