How to Remove Pilling From a Hoodie
To remove pilling from a hoodie, lay it flat and gently shave the pills off with a fabric shaver or a clean razor, then wash it inside out. Do it lightly and never pull the pills by hand.
What is pilling?
Pilling is the small balls of fibre that form where fabric rubs, like under the arms, on the cuffs and around the pocket. It happens to most clothes over time. It does not mean the hoodie is ruined.
How do I remove it?
You have a few options:
- A fabric shaver, which is the easiest and safest
- A clean disposable razor, used with very light strokes
- A fabric comb or pumice-style stone made for clothes
Lay the hoodie flat, hold the fabric tight and work in one direction.
Can I pull them off by hand?
Better not to. Pulling can tug the fibres loose and cause more pilling. Take your time with a tool instead.
How do I stop it coming back?
Prevention is simple:
- Wash inside out on a cool cycle
- Avoid washing with rough items like jeans or towels
- Do not overload the machine
- Air dry when you can
We cover the full routine in how to wash a hoodie without shrinking it.
Does a better hoodie pill less?
Often, yes, because fabric quality and how it is made both matter. We explain what to look for in how to tell if a hoodie is good quality.
How often should I do it?
Only when you notice pilling building up, usually every few weeks of heavy wear. Doing it too often can thin the fabric, so be gentle and do not go over the same spot again and again.
What should I avoid?
Do not use scissors, since it is easy to cut the fabric by accident. Do not scrub with a rough sponge either, because that creates more fuzz. Slow, light passes with a proper tool always win.
Is pilling a sign of poor quality?
Not always. Even good hoodies pill a little where they rub, especially in the first few washes. Heavy pilling that appears quickly across the whole garment is a different story, and usually points to loosely twisted fibres. Care makes a bigger difference than most people expect.
Is it worth fixing?
Yes. A quick shave can make a hoodie look newer in minutes. If you love yours, look after it. The Amoure Hoodie is £65 if you want one worth looking after.
Five minutes with a shaver can save a favourite. Give it a go.
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