What can you do if wool starts to pill?

Help! My New Wool Sweater, Slippers, Cardigan, Jacket, or Blanket Is Pilling

You’ve just bought a brand-new sweater, worn it only once, and it already looks like an old favorite—covered in pills.

But it's not just sweaters that can pill; this can also happen with wool blankets, felted slippers, jackets, and cardigans.

Some people assume that pilling is a sign of poor-quality wool, but that’s not necessarily true at all.

Pilling occurs due to friction. Wool fibers rub against each other and twist into small balls—what we call “pills.” While wearing the item, this can be caused by leaning against the back of a chair, resting your elbows on a table, putting on a jacket over your wool clothing, and many other forms of contact with rough surfaces.

What Can You Do About Wool Pilling?

When washing your wool garment, try washing it with a rough-textured item like a coarse towel. Always wash on the wool cycle using a special wool detergent that contains lanolin. Avoid strong spin cycles and never use a tumble dryer.

Can You Remove the Pills?

Never pull pills off by hand—this can damage the wool.

Yes, you can remove pills safely using a fabric shaver (lint remover).

You can also use a pumice stone to gently remove pills.

Be extra cautious if you use a knife or blade—one slip and you could end up with a hole in your garment or blanket.