pilling

Pilling is the formation of small, rounded fibers that cling to the surface of textile fabrics, creating tiny balls called pills. Pills arise from friction and wear during wearing, washing, and drying, and are more common in fabrics made from short-staple fibers, certain blends, and loosely woven or knitted materials.

Causes and contributing factors include fiber type and length, fiber fineness, and the overall fabric construction. Short-staple fibers and blends that combine staple fibers with filament fibers tend to shed fibers more readily. High friction from abrasion, laundering, and contact with skin or other garments accelerates fiber migration to the surface, where it entangles and forms pills. Finishing treatments and the presence of loose surface fibers can also influence pilling tendency.

Mechanism: loose fibers are pulled from the yarn and accumulate on the fabric surface. Through friction and entanglement, these fibers roll into small, compact clusters held together by surface adhesion and continued abrasion. Pills can be protruding or embedded and may become looser or detach with further wear.

Measurement and prevention: pilling resistance is evaluated using standardized tests, often involving abrasion simulators that mimic wear. Prevention strategies include selecting fabrics with longer-staple fibers, combed or tightly spun yarns, and tighter weaves or knits; using finishes that reduce fuzz and fiber shedding; and avoiding high-friction blends. Proper care also helps, such as washing inside out, using gentle cycles, cold water, and avoiding excessive agitation and high-heat drying.

Remedies: pills can be removed with fabric shavers, depilling combs, or razor tools; some care products aim to minimize new pills by reducing surface fuzz during laundering.