fluffing

Fluffing is the act of making something fluffy, light, or voluminous. The term is used across fields to describe lifting, brushing, or shaking fibers or material to restore loft or softness, and can refer to both textiles and living textures such as hair or down insulation. In some contexts, fluffing also describes the process of lightly distributing filler or stuffing to achieve a uniform appearance.

Common uses include textiles and bedding: pillows, comforters, down jackets, and upholstery are fluffed to restore loft after washing or storage. In laundry or care guides, fluffing is recommended after washing to prevent clumping of fibers; techniques include gentle agitation, air drying, and using dryer balls to redistribute fill.

In entertainment, particularly in the context of adult film production, the term fluffer has been used to describe a person employed to maintain male arousal between takes. The historical accuracy and prevalence of this role are debated, and many productions do not use such a position. The concept remains controversial and is less common in modern productions, with broader discussions emphasizing consent and labor practices rather than a defined job title.

The word derives from the sense of adding fluff or volume to objects, with older uses in fashion and stagecraft describing methods to enhance appearance or texture. Fluffing should not be confused with damaging materials; appropriate care depends on the material involved.