Pilling on bamboo t-shirts and how to reduce it
Short answer: Pilling happens when tiny fibres rub loose and gather into small balls on the fabric. It can occur on bamboo t-shirts just as on other materials. You can limit it with gentle washing, less friction and a fabric shaver to remove the balls.
What pilling actually is
Pilling is the small balls that appear on fabric when short fibres work loose and tangle together. You see it most where clothes rub against something, such as under the arms, across the back and along the sides. It is not a fault in itself, but something that can happen with many kinds of textile.
Why bamboo t-shirts can pill
Bamboo in clothing is viscose made from bamboo, and the fabric is often soft and finely knitted. Soft fabric can carry short fibres on the surface that rub loose easily during wear and washing. How much a given t-shirt pills depends on the yarn and the knit, so it varies between styles. See bamboo T-shirt for women to compare.
Turn the t-shirt inside out
The easiest habit is to wash the t-shirt inside out. That way the outer surface avoids rubbing directly against the drum and other clothes, and many people find the surface stays nicer for longer. Close zips and hook-and-loop fastenings first, and avoid packing the drum full so the laundry has room to move.
Choose a gentle cycle and low temperature
Wash on a gentle programme at the temperature shown on the label and use a mild detergent. Less mechanical movement means less friction, and friction is what creates the balls. Rinse well and choose a low spin speed so the fibres are not strained unnecessarily, especially if the t-shirt is worn often.
Keep it away from rough items
Jeans, towels and clothes with hooks or hook-and-loop fastenings act like sandpaper on a soft t-shirt. Sort the wash so fine t-shirts go in with similar pieces. Laundry bags help with delicate items, and the same goes for period underwear, which you also do well to wash apart from rough and heavy clothes.
Drying and care after washing
High heat in the tumble dryer can wear the fabric, so hang the t-shirt to dry or choose a low programme if the label allows it. Shake it out lightly when wet and lay it flat so the surface does not rub unnecessarily. Always follow the care label, because it can differ from style to style.
Remove pilling without harming the fabric
If the balls are already there, a fabric shaver or pill remover can take them off gently. Lay the t-shirt flat and run it lightly over the affected areas without pressing, so you do not pull on the knit. Do not cut with scissors, as that easily makes holes. Take your time and check the fabric as you go.
Think about everyday friction
Bags with straps, bra straps and backpacks rub in the same place day after day, and that can encourage pilling on shoulders and sides. Switch shoulders now and then, and add a layer in between if you carry something heavy. If you also like sleeves, a women's long-sleeved bamboo T-shirt lets you rotate pieces so none wears the same.
Frequently asked questions
Is it normal for a bamboo t-shirt to pill?
Yes, pilling can happen on many fabrics, including bamboo, especially where clothes rub. How much it happens depends on the yarn and the knit, so it varies between styles.
How do I remove pilling from a t-shirt?
Lay the t-shirt flat and use a fabric shaver or pill remover with a light hand. Avoid scissors and check the fabric as you go so you do not pull on the knit.
How should I wash a t-shirt so it pills less?
Wash it inside out on a gentle programme, away from rough items like jeans and towels. Use mild detergent, a low spin speed and avoid high heat in the tumble dryer.
