Ever found yourself purchasing a brand-new piece of knitwear – only to later discover dozens of tiny fuzzy balls saturating the surface of the fabric the next time you want to wear it? Frustrating, isn’t it?
This has become the reality for so many of us with each time we attempt to spoil ourselves by purchasing something warm ahead of the cold winter season, because let’s face it, none of us enjoy freezing.
While feeling comfy is the main goal, looking attractive and presentable is the next logical box to tick. However, as a result of these tiny balls, looking the part may become a stressful situation.
So, what are these tiny balls found on our wool jerseys and how do they form?
These are called “piles” or “pilling”.
“Pilling is caused by rubbing during wear and, although it can occur in any part of the sweater, the most common areas are around the elbows, armpits, sleeves, belly and the sides of the sweater where, during wear, the arms of the garment are constantly coming into contact with the body of the sweater,” explains online fashion company Woolmark.
According to the above-mentioned source, a big contributor to pilling is dependent on how active the wearer of the clothing is.
While there are multiple ways that one can get rid of these fuzzy little balls, it is often said that prevention is better than cure.
Below are a few useful tips on how you can prevent pilling on your knitwear as recommended by Belle Paga.
- Use liquid detergent instead of washing powder – this helps to avoid damaging the fibres in your mesh.
- Wash your clothes inside out, they will be much less fragile.
- Wash your fragile laundry separately.
Additionally, the above-mentioned source states that “Softeners, bleaches, and all types of chemicals that could weaken the yarns of our clothing must be avoided at all costs”.
