Why your bamboo t-shirt gets bobbles and what to do about it

Short answer: Bobbles form when loose fibres rub against each other and roll into small balls. Wash inside out, keep rough fabrics out of the same load, and remove them with a fabric shaver.

Where the bobbles come from

Bobbling is not in itself a sign of poor fabric. Every knitted fabric has fibre ends that stick out slightly, and when they rub against something rough they roll into little balls. That is why bobbles appear exactly where friction is highest, under the arms, on the side where a bag hangs and across the back where a chair rests. See the range in bamboo t-shirts for women.

What you can change in the wash

The biggest source of friction is the wash itself. Turn the garment inside out, load the machine so clothes can move freely instead of being pressed together, and never wash with towels or other terry fabric. Lower the spin speed so the fabric is not thrown hard against the drum.

How to remove the bobbles you already have

A fabric shaver is the best tool. Lay the garment flat on a table, hold the fabric slightly taut with one hand and move the shaver in one direction. A disposable razor also works but has to be used lightly, or you will cut a hole. Only do this when the fabric is dry.

How to avoid it next time

Choose more tightly knitted qualities for the pieces you wear daily, and let a garment rest for a day between wears so the fibres settle. A t-shirt that bobbles for the first couple of weeks and then calms down is behaving normally. See also bamboo t-shirts for men and bamboo clothing for women.

Frequently asked questions

Do bobbles mean the fabric is poor quality

No. Bobbling says more about friction and knit type than about fibre quality.

Can bobbles come back after removal

Yes, but usually less. Most garments bobble most at the start and settle down afterwards.

Does fabric softener help against bobbles

No. Softener leaves a film on the fibres and makes the fabric less absorbent without solving anything.