Pilling — those tiny fuzz balls on the surface of your sweatshirt — can make even a high-quality piece look old and worn. The good news? You can safely remove pills and slow them down from coming back.
1. What Causes Pilling?
Pilling happens when fibers break and tangle due to friction. It’s common on:
- Sweatshirts and hoodies (especially cotton-poly blends)
- Knit sweaters and Ugly Christmas Sweaters
- Areas that rub a lot: underarms, sides, elbows, belly
2. Tools You Can Use
- Fabric shaver: Safest and most effective tool.
- Lint comb or sweater comb: Great for delicate knits.
- Sticky lint roller: Removes loose lint before shaving.
Avoid using razor blades unless you are very experienced — they can cut holes in the fabric.
3. How to Remove Pilling Step-by-Step
- Lay the sweatshirt or sweater flat on a smooth surface.
- Gently run a lint roller to pick up loose fuzz.
- Use a fabric shaver with light pressure in short strokes.
- Empty the shaver frequently so it continues to work efficiently.
- Finish by smoothing the surface with your hand.
4. Extra Care for Ugly Sweaters
If your Ugly Christmas Sweater has sequins, lights, or 3D details:
- Avoid shaving directly over decorations.
- Use a small sweater comb around the areas instead.
5. How to Prevent Pilling in the Future
- Turn sweatshirts inside out before washing.
- Wash with similar soft fabrics — avoid jeans, zippers, and towels.
- Use the gentle cycle and cold water.
- Air-dry instead of tumble drying on high heat.
6. When It’s Time to Retire a Piece
If fabric becomes very thin or pills reappear immediately after shaving, it may be time to retire that sweatshirt to “at home only” status.
Related Products
Explore our Pilling-Resistant Sweatshirt Collection made with tighter-knit fabrics designed to reduce fuzz and wear.
Internal Resources
Combine this guide with:
- How to Prevent Sweatshirts from Pilling and Losing Shape
- How to Store Sweatshirts for Winter Without Damaging Fabric
Final Tip: Pilling is normal — not a sign of low quality. With the right tools and washing habits, your sweatshirts and sweaters can stay smooth and fresh for a long time.
