A sweatshirt that pills and what to do about it

Short answer: Pilling on a sweatshirt comes from friction, and it can be removed with a fabric shaver or a comb. Here is a simple guide to why it happens, what you can do about it and how to prevent it next time.

What pilling actually is

Pills are small balls of loose fibres that gather on the surface of the fabric. They form where clothing rubs against something, typically under the arms, at the sleeves and under a bag. This is perfectly common on many fabrics and does not necessarily say anything about quality, but it does not look neat.

Why a sweatshirt pills

A sweatshirt is worn often and lies close to the skin and to other clothes. Friction and washing loosen fibres, which tangle into small balls. Look at the bamboo sweatshirt for women if you are looking for a soft model, and think about care from the start so you can prevent pilling.

Remove pills with care

Use a fabric shaver, a lint comb or a lint brush. Lay the garment flat on a table and run lightly over the surface. Never cut pills off with scissors, because you can cut into the fabric. Work calmly and do not press too hard, so you do not damage the fibres.

Washing so that fewer pills form

Turn the sweatshirt inside out before washing. Use a gentle programme and a moderate temperature. Do not wash it with clothes that have zips or Velcro, which can tear at the surface. The less friction in the machine, the fewer pills you get in the long run.

Drying and friction

The tumble dryer rubs the clothes against each other, and that often leads to more pilling. Air drying is gentler. Hang the sweatshirt on a hanger or over a drying rack. If you use the dryer anyway, choose low heat and a gentle programme, and take the clothes out as soon as they are dry.

Bags and straps

Bags with straps often rub against the shoulder and upper arm, and that is where pills form first. Try switching shoulders or using a bag with a wide strap. This reduces friction and makes a difference. Combine with a soft top underneath, so the sweatshirt does not rub against the skin.

Layering and care

When you wear the sweatshirt as a layer, think about what lies closest. A smooth top from the bamboo tops for women underneath means the sweatshirt rubs less against the skin. Remember socks for women too, so the whole layer of clothing is soft and comfortable to move in all day.

When pills are not a problem

A few pills are normal and should not discourage you. Remove them from time to time and look after the clothes. If you choose to ignore them, they do not affect how soft the garment feels, but the appearance is often neater if you take the time to remove them.

Frequently asked questions

Is pilling a sign of poor quality?

Not necessarily. Pilling occurs on many fabrics where there is friction. It says more about use and care than about quality, but it can be removed.

How do I remove pills safely?

Use a fabric shaver or lint comb on a flat surface and press lightly. Avoid scissors, which can damage the fabric.

Can I prevent pilling?

Partly. Wash clothes inside out, avoid the tumble dryer and limit friction from bags. That way you get fewer pills in the long run.