What Is Fabric Pilling & How to Prevent It

If you’ve ever rubbed a piece of fabric and noticed small, fuzzy balls start to form on the surface, then you’ve likely experienced fabric pilling. This unsightly occurrence is often due to poor quality or improper care for fabrics, but it can be prevented with a few simple tips! 

Before exploring solutions to reduce or eliminate fabric pilling in your clothes and accessories, let’s take a look at what causes this annoying phenomenon and how we can stop it from happening in the first place.

Understanding What Fabric Pilling Is

Have you ever noticed small balls of fabric forming on your favorite sweater or leggings? That is known as fabric pilling – a common problem for many clothing items. Pilling is caused by the friction that occurs between the fabric and other surfaces, such as a purse strap or seatbelt. 

This rubbing causes the fibers of the fabric to twist and tangle together, creating those pesky pills. While pilling is not entirely preventable, there are ways to reduce it. One option is to invest in quality fabrics that are less prone to pilling. 

Another is to use a fabric shaver or sweater comb, which helps to remove the pills and keep the fabric looking fresh. Understanding what causes fabric pilling can help you better care for your clothing and keep it looking great for longer.

Causes of Fabric Pilling and How to Avoid It

Fabric pilling is predominantly caused by friction and wear. When fabric rubs against other surfaces or even against itself, the fibers can break, twist, and bunch together, leading to the formation of pills. Fabrics that are loosely woven or knitted have a higher tendency to pill, as the fibers in these fabrics can easily move and twist into small balls.

To avoid fabric pilling, some preventive steps can be taken. Firstly, purchasing high-quality fabrics with tighter weaves or knits can help, as these are less likely to pill. Washing clothes inside out can reduce the friction that clothes undergo during the wash, thus reducing pilling. 

Furthermore, using gentle wash cycles and avoiding harsh detergents can also lessen the stress on your clothes, reducing the probability of pilling.

Finally, regular maintenance with a fabric shaver or a sweater comb can help manage and remove pills, keeping your clothing looking fresh and well-maintained. 

By understanding and addressing the causes of fabric pilling, you can prolong the life of your garments and keep them looking their best for a longer period.

Tips for Removing Existing Pills From Your Clothes

If you already have garments that show signs of fabric pilling, don’t fret. There are several methods you can use to remove these unsightly little balls. One of the most popular tools for removing pills is a fabric shaver or defuzzer. 

This handy device trims off the pills, restoring your clothing to its smooth texture. Alternatively, you can also use a sweater comb or a pumice stone for the same purpose.

Another method involves using a common household item – a disposable razor. Gently run the razor over the surface of the fabric, taking care not to apply too much pressure to avoid damaging the garment. The razor will easily catch and remove the pills.

You can also use a piece of fine-grit sandpaper. Rub it lightly over the pilled area to remove the fuzz balls. However, this method may not be suitable for delicate fabrics.

Lastly, remember to handle your clothes with care after de-pilling, following the preventive measures discussed earlier, to avoid future pilling. By regularly maintaining your clothes, you can ensure they remain pill-free and look their best.

Preventing Future Pilling Through Proper Care and Maintenance

To prevent future pilling on your clothes, it’s crucial to practice proper care and maintenance. Here are some steps you can take:

1. Washing: Always observe the care instructions on your garment tags. Some clothes may require hand washing or a gentle cycle to prevent friction that can lead to pilling. Additionally, consider using a mild detergent and avoid using bleach, as it can weaken the fabric fibers.
2. Drying: Avoid high heat when drying clothes as it can cause fibers to break. Instead, opt for air drying or tumble drying on a low setting.
3. Storage: Store clothes neatly folded in a dry, cool place. Hung clothes can experience friction from other items, which can cause pilling.
4. Using Fabric Softener: Fabric softeners can help reduce friction during the wash cycle. They can also condition the fibers, making them less prone to pilling.
5. Quality Check: Invest in higher quality clothes with tighter weaves or knits, as they are less likely to pill.

By following these steps, you can extend the lifespan of your clothes and keep them looking pristine and free from unsightly pills. Always remember that prevention is better than the cure – proper care and maintenance can save your favorite garments from the dreaded curse of pilling.

How a Dry Cleaner Can Help in Preventing and Managing Fabric Pilling

Dry Cleaning your clothes can be a key strategy in preventing and managing fabric pilling. Oftentimes, the expert care and attention provided by drycleaners can extend the life of your garments and maintain their pristine condition.

1. Professional Cleaning: Drycleaners use professional-grade cleaning solutions and techniques that are gentle on fabrics, reducing the likelihood of fiber damage and subsequent pilling.
2. Expert Handling: Dry Cleaners are skilled in handling all types of fabrics, including delicate ones that are more susceptible to pilling. Their expertise ensures your clothing is cleaned and cared for in the best possible way.
3. Special Equipment: Unlike home washing machines, dry cleaning machines have design elements that minimize friction, thereby reducing the stress on fabrics and preventing pilling.
4. Maintenance Services: Many dry cleaners offer additional services like de-pilling garments using professional equipment, and prolonging the lifespan of your garments.
5. Customized Care: Dry Cleaners can provide personalized advice on how to best care for your specific clothes, taking into account the fabric type, weave, and color.

By utilizing the services of a dry cleaner, not only can you save time and effort, but you can also ensure that your clothes stay looking their best for longer.

About Us

Keeping your clothes clean is more than just about hygiene, it is also about wearing clean clothes that look stylish and make you feel confident. However, to make your stylish couture last, you must take care of them. That’s where Greener Cleaner comes in. 

We are one of the few dry cleaners in Chicago that use zero petrochemicals in our cleaning. From your wedding dress to chic leather jackets, we dry clean everything in an eco-friendly manner. We can also alter your outfits to create a flattering fit and add a new spark to your old wardrobe favorites.

We also provide pick-up and delivery services for your clothing, so there is no hassle associated with laundry cleaning. You can reach us at (773) 784-8429 or fill out our contact form to know more.