Key Takeaways
Pilling is the formation of small balls on clothing made of cotton, wool and other materials. It is caused by friction, wear and poor quality of fibers. To avoid pilling, choose quality fabrics and wash gently. The pilling shaver makes it easy to remove pills.
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Introduction
Have you noticed the appearance of small balls on your favorite clothes? These pills are often a source of frustration and give a worn appearance to fabrics.
Definition of pilling
Pilling refers to the formation of small lint or balls on the surface of fabrics and clothing. These little balls are made up of fibers that come loose from the clothing.
Understanding pilling
Pilling is a common normal phenomenon that affects many textiles. It causes tiny lint to appear on the surface of clothing.
In this article, we will discover the causes of this problem and the solutions to avoid it. We will see in particular:
- What causes fabrics to pill
- What are the textiles most affected
- How to prevent and treat pilling
- Effective tools against pilling
Also read: Which sweater does not pill?
Causes of pilling
Several factors can cause unsightly pilling to appear on your clothes.
Fabric production factors
The quality of the yarn and the type of weave influence pilling. Poor quality fibers or a loose weave weaken the fabric. Friction then easily detaches threads from the surface.
Wear and friction
Normal wear and tear on clothing causes small lint to come loose. The friction between two textile surfaces accentuates this phenomenon.
For example, the friction of a wool sweater on a cotton coat will accelerate the formation of pilling.
The impact of human forces and actions
Certain actions such as sitting or rubbing against a rough surface tear fibers. Intense heat and humidity also amplify pilling.
The link between fabric quality and pilling
Better quality fabrics are more resistant to wear and friction. Conversely, poor yarn quality promotes pilling.
Also read: Does viscose pill ?
Identify the materials, fabrics and fibers that pill the most
Not all textiles react in the same way to pilling. Here are the main ones affected:
What textiles are at risk?
Wool, cotton, cotton/polyester blends are the great champions of pilling. Airy knits are also sensitive to this.
Wool and cotton: materials prone to pilling
Wool and cotton are among the most affected materials. Their fibers come off easily. Be careful with wool sweaters!
Can polyester pill?
Pure polyester pills little. But associated with cotton, it becomes more sensitive to the phenomenon. fabrics mixing cotton and polyester are therefore to be watched!
Also read: Oversize cut: what is it?
Preventing and treating pilling on your clothes
It is possible to prevent and treat pilling with a few simple actions.
Tips to prevent pilling
- Choose clothing made from good quality materials
- Wash gently inside out at 30°C maximum
- Use a detergent suitable for textiles
- Iron to close the fibers
How to treat pilling
Several solutions allow you to get rid of unsightly pilling.
1. Using a pilling razor: an effective solution?
The pilling shaver makes it easy to remove unwanted lumps. It is a fast and effective treatment to restore a smooth appearance to the fabric.
2. Other tools to get rid of pilling
The clothes brush, the pilling stone or even the iron equipped with a lint catcher are some of the alternatives.
3. Natural solutions to eliminate pilling
Adhesive tape or cactus leaf can remove pilling without chemical treatments.
Recommended tools and techniques
To prevent and treat pilling, we recommend:
- A pilling razor to quickly remove already formed pills
- Washing risky clothing inside out
- Using a special detergent for delicate textiles
Pilling and aesthetics: how to deal with it?
The appearance of pilling can quickly become a source of aesthetic concern.
- Do not panic or dramatize when faced with a few upsets
- Remember that pilling is a normal phenomenon linked to wear
- Treat quickly with a pilling razor to restore the appearance of the garment
- In case of intense pilling, reserve the textile for domestic use
With a few reflexes, it is possible to limit pilling to enjoy your favorite textiles for a long time!
Conclusion
Pilling corresponds to the appearance of small balls on the surface of clothing. This phenomenon mainly affects cotton, wool, and cotton/polyester blends.
To avoid it, rely on quality fabrics, delicate washing and careful ironing. The pilling shaver makes it easy to remove unsightly pills.
With a little attention, it is possible to limit pilling to preserve the appearance of your favorite clothes.
| Causes of pilling | Risk materials | Prevention and treatment |
|---|---|---|
| Friction, wear | Wool, cotton | Quality fabrics |
| Poor fiber quality | Cotton/polyester blends | Delicate wash inside out |
| Loose knit | Air mesh | Adapted detergent |
| Heat, humidity | Careful ironing | |
| Pilling razor |
FAQ
What material does not pill?
Polyester and nylon are two materials that resist pilling well. Technical fabrics and tight knits are also less affected.
How do you know if a fabric will pill?
Several signs should alert you to the risk of pilling: an airy knit, fibers that already stand out, a cotton/wool-based composition. Touch also gives an indication.
Why do all sweaters pill?
Sweaters are often made of wool or a wool/cotton blend, which are among the materials most prone to pilling. The neckline and armholes are areas of intense friction.
What materials pill?
Cotton and wool are the two materials most affected by pilling. Their fibers tend to detach easily. Polyester pills little.
Does polyester pill?
Polyester pills very little compared to cotton or wool. However, when mixed with cotton, it becomes more susceptible to pilling.
