Pilling on hoodies and sweatshirts and what helps
Short answer: Pilling on hoodies and sweatshirts appears when loose fibres rub together into small balls, especially on the sleeves, sides and under the arms. It helps to wash inside out, avoid overfilling the machine and remove the balls with a fabric shaver.
Why sweat fabric tends to pill
Sweat fabric is soft and thick, and its surface is made of many loose fibres. When they rub against clothes, bags or each other, they tangle into small balls. This is normal and happens with many kinds of sweat fabric, with or without a brushed inside.
Where pilling shows up first
Pilling usually shows under the arms, on the sleeves and along the sides, where the fabric touches the body and is rubbed. The area where a backpack or bag rests is also exposed. If you know those spots, you can keep an extra eye on them.
Wash with similar clothes
Do not wash sweat fabric with jeans, towels or anything with a rough surface. Choose garments of the same kind so the rubbing is less. A bamboo sweatshirt for men deserves gentle treatment like anything you want to enjoy for a long time.
Wash the sweatshirt inside out
Turn the hoodie or sweatshirt inside out before it goes into the machine. That way the inside rubs against the drum and not the nice outer surface. Wash according to the label, and close zips and drawstrings so they do not catch in the fabric.
Dry without heat
Lots of heat in the tumble dryer can wear on the fibres. Hang the sweat to dry, or use a gentle programme if the label allows it. The dryer is also a source of lint, which can settle in the fabric.
Remove the balls without harming the fabric
Use a fabric shaver or a fine clothes comb and make short, light strokes on a flat surface. Take care not to pull at the fabric. Check for holes before you start, and begin on a spot that does not show.
Less rubbing in daily life
Bags and straps rub on sweat fabric, so switch sides or use a different bag. A seat belt and armrest can also wear the sleeves. These are small things, but they make a difference. Layer a bamboo hoodie for men over a T-shirt to protect the fabric.
A layer underneath helps
A T-shirt under the sweat keeps sweat and skin oils away from the fabric and protects it a little. Look at bamboo T-shirts for men, which can serve as a first layer. Then the sweat does not need washing as often, which reduces wear.
Frequently asked questions
Is it normal for a new sweatshirt to pill
Yes, it can happen, especially in the first washes when loose fibres come to the surface. It does not necessarily mean the garment is bad. Wash gently and remove the balls carefully.
Can I use an ordinary razor on pilling
That is not recommended. An ordinary razor can cut a hole in the fabric. Use a fabric shaver or a fine clothes comb instead, and make short, light strokes.
Does fabric softener help against pilling
Some use it, but it is no guarantee. Always follow the care label and wash and dry gently. That usually makes the biggest difference.
