What is the Best Way to Remove Pilling from Fabrics?

Have you ever noticed those annoying little balls of fabric on your clothes after a few washes? This is known as pilling, and it happens when small fibres from the fabric become tangled and form little balls, or pills. Pilling can make even the most beautiful garments look worn out and old, which can be frustrating, especially when you want to keep your clothes looking fresh. So, what’s the best way to deal with pilling? The answer is simple: finding a good pilling remover. In this blog, we’ll discuss how to remove pill from clothes, the best pill remover, and how to remove and prevent pilling on clothes.

What is Pilling?

Before we dive into how to get rid of pilling, let’s first understand what it is. Pilling occurs when the fibres of your clothes rub against each other or against surfaces during normal wear and washing. The friction causes the fibres to loosen and tangle, forming tiny balls that cling to the fabric. This is especially common on fabrics like cotton, wool, and synthetic fibres, which are soft and prone to wear. Over time, pilling can make your clothes look older than they really are.

How to Remove Pill from Clothes?

Now that you know what pilling is, the next question is: how to remove pill from clothes? Thankfully, there are several effective methods to get rid of those annoying pills, with the help of the right tools and techniques. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Use a Pilling Remover: One of the easiest and most effective ways to get rid of pills is by using a pilling remover. A pilling remover is a tool designed specifically to remove pills from fabric. It works by gently shaving off the pills without damaging the fabric underneath. Some pilling removers are electric, while others are manual. Either way, a pilling remover is a quick and easy solution to restore your clothes to their original condition.
2. Fabric Shaver: A fabric shaver is a handheld device that removes pills by trimming the tangled fibres from the fabric. It works similarly to an electric razor and can be used on various types of fabric, including cotton, wool, and polyester. Simply run the shaver over the fabric, and it will remove the pills in seconds. Fabric shavers are great for larger areas and for getting rid of stubborn pilling.
3. Use a Lint Roller: While a lint roller is not specifically designed for pilling, it can help remove some of the smaller pills. Roll the lint roller over the affected area to lift off the pills. It’s not as effective as a clothing pill remover or a fabric shaver, but it can be a quick and easy fix for light pilling.
4. Scissors: For small patches of pilling, you can also use a pair of sharp scissors. Carefully snip away the pills, being careful not to cut the fabric. This method takes more time and effort, but it can work well for smaller areas with mild pilling.
5. Use a Sweater Comb: A sweater comb is a simple tool designed to gently remove pills from knitted fabrics, especially wool. It works by combing through the fabric and lifting off the pills. Sweater combs are great for delicate fabrics and can help prevent further damage to the fabric.
6. Wash Clothes Inside Out: Preventing pilling is just as important as removing it. One way to do this is by washing your clothes inside out. This reduces the friction on the outside of the fabric, helping to prevent the formation of pills. Additionally, using a gentle wash cycle and cold water can help preserve the fabric and prevent pilling.
7. Use a Cotton Pill Remover: If you have clothes made of cotton, there are special cotton pill removers available. These are designed specifically for cotton fabrics, which are prone to pilling due to their soft fibres. Cotton pill removers work gently on the fabric, removing pills without damaging the material.

Best Clothes Pill Remover

When it comes to the best clothes pill remover, there are a few options to choose from. The best pill remover depends on your personal preferences, the type of fabric you're working with, and the severity of the pilling. Here are some of the best options:

1. BIORESTORE Cotton Laundry Re-Tergent™: If you're looking for a more eco-friendly and long-term solution, the BIORESTORE Cotton Laundry Re-Tergent™ is a fantastic option. It’s not only great at removing and preventing pilling on clothes, but it also works to restore the softness and smoothness of cotton fabrics. This product is designed to keep your clothes looking fresh and new, even after multiple washes.
2. Fabric Shavers: Electric or battery-operated fabric shavers are one of the most effective ways to remove pilling from clothes. They are designed to quickly and efficiently remove pills from fabric without causing damage. Many fabric shavers come with adjustable settings, allowing you to control how much pressure you apply to the fabric. Some popular brands include Philips and Conair, which are known for their reliable and affordable fabric shavers.
3. Pilling Removal Brushes: If you prefer a manual option, a pilling removal brush is another excellent choice. These brushes have fine bristles that gently lift the pills off the fabric. They are safe to use on delicate fabrics like wool and cashmere and are great for small areas of pilling.
4. Clothing Pill Remover Rolls: For a budget-friendly option, try clothing pill remover rolls. These work similarly to lint rollers but are specifically designed to remove pills. The sticky sheets grab and remove the pills, leaving your clothes looking clean and fresh.
5. Sweater Comb: As mentioned earlier, a sweater comb is ideal for removing pills from knitted fabrics. The comb gently lifts the pills without causing any damage to the fabric. It’s especially useful for wool and cashmere items.

How to Prevent Pilling on Clothes

Now that you know how to remove pill from clothes, it’s also important to learn how to prevent pilling from happening in the first place. Here are some tips to help you keep your clothes pill-free for longer:

1. Wash Clothes Inside Out: As mentioned earlier, turning your clothes inside out before washing them helps reduce friction on the outside of the fabric, which is the main cause of pilling. This simple step can make a big difference in how your clothes look over time.
2. Use a Gentle Wash Cycle: Always use the gentlest wash cycle when washing clothes that are prone to pilling. A gentle cycle reduces the agitation and friction that causes the fibres to loosen and form pills.
3. Avoid Overloading the Washing Machine: Overloading the washing machine can cause your clothes to rub together too much, leading to pilling. Make sure to give your clothes plenty of space in the drum for the wash to be effective without causing damage to the fabric.
4. Choose High-Quality Fabrics: Higher-quality fabrics, such as cotton, wool, and cashmere, are less likely to pill when cared for properly. If you want to avoid pilling, choose fabrics that are more resistant to wear and tear.
5. Air Dry Clothes: Instead of using the dryer, consider air-drying your clothes. The heat and tumbling action of the dryer can cause the fibres to loosen and form pills. Hanging your clothes to dry can help preserve their integrity and reduce the chances of pilling.

Conclusion

Pilling can be a frustrating problem, but with the right tools and techniques, you can easily remove and prevent pilling on clothes. Whether you use a pilling remover, a fabric shaver, or a simple clothing pill remover, the key is to act quickly before the pills get worse. Regular care, such as washing your clothes inside out and using gentle wash cycles, can also help reduce the likelihood of pilling. By taking these steps, you can keep your clothes looking fresh, soft, and free from pills for longer.

Remember, the best way to tackle pilling is with a reliable and effective pilling remover like BIORESTORE Cotton Laundry Re-Tergent™, which not only removes pills but also helps maintain the quality and longevity of your clothes. Whether it’s cotton pill remover or a general clothing pill remover, there’s no need to let pilling ruin your favourite garments!