Keeping your favorite sweaters looking new and free from annoying pills is easier than you think with the right care.
To keep your sweaters from pilling, focus on gentle care during washing, drying, and wearing.
Pilling occurs when fibers on the surface of a fabric break and tangle together into small balls, often in areas that experience friction. While some pilling is natural over time, proper care can significantly reduce its occurrence and help your sweaters last longer.
Washing Wisely to Prevent Pilling
How you wash your sweaters plays a critical role in preventing pills. Gentle handling and the right products are key.
- Choose the Right Detergent: Avoid harsh cleaners or bleach that can weaken fibers and cause them to break and pill. Look for detergents designed for delicates or wool. An important tip from fabric care experts is to choose a laundry detergent that contains the enzyme cellulase—it helps break down cotton pills and removes them. This is particularly useful for cotton or cotton-blend sweaters.
- Use Fabric Softener: To reduce friction during washing, add a commercial fabric softener to the rinse cycle; the softener will coat the fibers of fabric reducing abrasion. This makes the fibers smoother and less likely to rub against each other and form pills.
- Wash Inside Out: Always turn your sweaters inside out before washing. This protects the outer surface from rubbing against other clothes or the washing machine drum.
- Use a Gentle Cycle: Opt for the delicate or hand wash cycle on your washing machine, preferably using cold water.
- Wash Less Often: Unless visibly dirty, air out your sweaters between wears instead of washing them after every use.
Here's a quick summary of washing tips:
| Tip | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Use gentle detergent | Prevents fiber damage |
| Avoid bleach | Keeps fibers strong |
| Use cellulase detergent | Breaks down cotton pills |
| Add fabric softener | Reduces fiber abrasion |
| Wash inside out | Protects outer surface |
| Use gentle/cold cycle | Minimizes stress on fabric |
| Wash less often | Reduces overall wear and tear |
Drying and Storage Tips
Proper drying and storage also help maintain the integrity of your sweater fibers.
- Avoid the Dryer: High heat and tumbling in a dryer are major culprits for pilling and shrinking. Always air dry your sweaters by laying them flat on a clean towel or drying rack. This helps them maintain their shape and reduces friction.
- Fold, Don't Hang: Heavy sweaters can stretch out of shape when hung. Folding them neatly in a drawer or on a shelf prevents stretching and minimizes friction points.
Dealing with Existing Pills
Even with the best prevention, some pilling might occur, especially in high-friction areas like under the arms or where your bag strap rests. Don't pull them off! This can damage the fibers. Instead, use a fabric shaver, a pilling comb, or even carefully use a razor blade to gently remove the pills.
By incorporating these steps into your sweater care routine, focusing especially on gentle washing techniques as highlighted by experts, you can significantly extend the life and appearance of your beloved knits.
