Cure and prevent the pilling of textiles
Pilling is a very common problem with textiles, and we are sure that you have experienced it as well. Pilling is when small balls of fibre form on the surface of your textiles, making them look worn old and less soft. This can happen to clothes, blankets, and other fabric items over time. With a few simple steps, you can remove these pills and keep your textiles looking fresh and new. Let’s get started!
What else do you need to have?
- Fabric shaver
- Mild detergent
- Soft brush
Step 1: Wash the textile
Start by washing the textile with a mild detergent. This helps to remove any loose fibres and dirt. Use a gentle cycle (for example a wool wash and/or low cycles) and cold water to avoid further damage. Once washed, let it air dry completely.
Step 2: Use a lint roller
After the textile is dry, use a lint roller to remove any loose pills. Roll it over the surface of the fabric to pick up the small balls of fibre. This is a quick way to make your textile look better.
Step 3: Shave the Fabric
For more stubborn pills, use a fabric shaver. Turn on the shaver and gently run it over the pilled areas. Be careful not to press too hard to avoid damaging the fabric. The shaver will cut off the pills, leaving the surface smooth. Use the lint roller or a soft brush to get all loose pills of the surface.
Step 4: Prevent new pilling
You can never fully prevent pilling, since it is simply something that happens to natural materials. To minimize pilling in the future, wash your textiles inside out and always use a gentle cycle. Avoid overloading the washing machine or use a washing bag. Regularly use a lint roller to keep the surface clean.
