How to Wash Jogging Sets Without Getting Bobbles

Short answer: Bobbles on jogging sets appear when the fibres in the fabric rub against each other and against other textiles in the wash. You avoid most of it by washing the set inside out, at a low temperature, together with similar fabrics – and by skipping the tumble dryer.

Why do jogging sets get bobbles?

Bobbles (pilling) are created by friction: short fibres work loose and roll up into small balls. Blends with synthetic fibres and a harsh wash speed the process up. Quality fabric such as bamboo viscose with long fibres pills less – see bamboo jogging sets for men and bamboo jogging sets for women.

Five washing tips against bobbles

Wash inside out, use 30 degrees, wash sweat fabric with sweat fabric (never with towels or clothes with zips), use a liquid detergent without bleach, and air dry instead of tumbling. You will find the full care routine in the washing guide for bamboo clothing.

What do you do about bobbles that are already there?

A fabric shaver or a sharp clothes comb removes existing bobbles gently. Never pull the bobbles off with your fingers – that loosens even more fibres. Well cared-for clothes last for years; read also about why quality clothing is cheaper in the long run.

Frequently asked questions

Why does my jogging set get bobbles in the wash?

Friction against other textiles loosens short fibres that roll up into balls. Washing inside out together with similar fabrics reduces the wear considerably.

Does bamboo fabric pill less than cotton?

Bamboo viscose has long, smooth fibres that generally pill less than short-fibre cotton and many synthetic blends.

Can jogging sets go in the tumble dryer?

Preferably not. Tumbling wears on the fibres and increases pilling. Air drying is gentle and preserves the fit.