Pilling is one of the most common issues that is faced among all other types of clothing, particularly with fabrics like wool and cotton. You most likely know how frustrating it feels to get the small little fuzzy balls popping out in your favourite sweater or jacket. With pills on top of them, even the nicest attire appears shabby and outdated. This is the point at which it becomes important to understand the causes of pilling and the preventative measures that can be taken.
In this blog, we’ll go over the reasons why fabrics pill, some practical advice on how to avoid it, and efficient ways to get rid of it.
Causes of Pilling
Pilling refers to small balls that are formed on the surface of fabrics normally due to experiencing friction in the course of wear and wash. Certain types of fabrics, such as wool, cotton, or polyester are more open to piling because of their fiber make-up. A few of the common causes of pilling include:
- Poor quality of fabric
- Improper laundry
- Normal wear and tear
If you know the causes of pilling, you can adopt effective ways to avoid it.
Preventing Pilling
Below are some helpful tips on how to prevent pilling on sweaters and other fabrics:
- Choose the Best Fabrics: Getting the best fabrics will make your garments last longer without piling. Natural fibers such as cotton and wool are assumed to be of higher quality than synthetic fabrics, such as polyester, which are relatively more prone to pilling.
- Turn clothes inside out: During the washing of the clothes, turn them inside out. This is the most elementary step towards reducing friction on the outside of the fabric and therefore lessens the possibilities of pilling.
- Do not Overpack the Washing Machine: Overcrowding the machine creates more friction between clothes. Wash in smaller loads to prevent garments from rubbing against each other.
Removing Pilling
Even with the best care pilling can occur, but with effective methods, it is possible to remove it. Here are the best ways to remove pilling from clothes:
- Use a Fabric Shaver: A fabric shaver is probably one of the most effective methods for removing pilling. Just pass the device over the fabric to remove the tiny pills.
- Try a Lint Roller or Pumice Stone: For small pills, you can try using a lint roller or pumice stone. The lint roller picks pills off, and the pumice stone works on wool and sweaters. It gently removes the pills without causing any damage to the fabric.
- Scissors or a Razor Blade: You can also use small scissors and razor blades to trim the pills, but you must be cautious as you might damage the cloth.
Tips for Specific Fabrics
Some fabrics have specific care requirements to prevent pilling. Here’s how to remove pilling from wool and other common fabrics:
- Wool: Never use harsh detergents and never wash wool in a machine, because the friction leads to pilling. Even if pilling occurs, it is best to remove them with a fabric comb or a pumice stone.
- Polyester: Avoid pilling by washing in cold water and using a gentle wash cycle. Remove pills using a fabric shaver.
- Sweaters: To prevent pills from forming on sweater surfaces, avoid heavy washing cycles and let them air dry. Remove any pills that form using a fabric shaver.
Although pilling is a common problem, it is readily avoidable with regular care. Pilling can be efficiently reduced by washing items inside out, investing in high-quality clothing, and using moderate laundry cycles. Using a fabric shaver or pumice stone is a great way to remove pilling once it occurs.
If you’re looking for an online laundry service in Bangalore, laundry service in Bangalore or the best laundry service near me that understands fabric care, The Laundry Basket is a top choice. They provide specialised treatments for different fabrics, ensuring your clothes stay pill-free and look as good as new.