What is fabric pilling? How can it be prevented and removed?

Pilling is the formation of small balls of fibre on the fabric surface — caused by friction loosening short fibres that then tangle together into pills. It is most common on low-quality polyester blends, rayon, and acrylic fabrics.

Fabrics most prone to pilling: Acrylic, low-quality polyester, rayon blends, and low-quality cotton with short staple fibres.

Fabrics least prone: High-quality long-staple cotton (Egyptian, Pima), silk, linen, and high-quality merino wool.

Prevention:

• Wash in cold water on gentle cycle or hand wash
• Turn garment inside out — reduces friction on outer surface
• Use a mesh laundry bag
• Do not overwash — each wash cycle increases pilling

Removing existing pills:

• Fabric shaver / lint shaver: Small battery-operated device that shaves pills off — most effective method (₹150–₹400 online)
• Razor blade (carefully): Gently shave the fabric surface with a disposable razor
• Velcro or tape: Removes loose surface pills only