Bobbling or pilling on clothes and laundry
Bobbling, and linting are common terms for pilling. They refer to the little bits of fabric that stick to sheets, towels, socks and other items of clothing. Pilling is caused by damaged fibres that have separated from the rest of the fibres
Natural fibres like cotton, linen, or wool may also be subject to pilling but the separated fibres don’t tend to stick like man made fibres do and so are commonly washed away. It’s possible that with mixed fabric loads, the bits from natural fibres can stick to the man made fibres such as polyester, acrylic, and nylon.
The cause of pilling is abrasion. The fibres simply get damaged by friction and abrasion through either wear and tear or whilst being washed.
Tips to avoid pilling (or bobbling) whilst washing
- Wash affected garments inside out
- Buy better quality garments, the better the quality of the fibres the less pilling
- Use a fabric softener in the washer or dryer to lubricate the fibers – although I’m not sure how much this can help because fabric conditioner is not introduced until the very last rinse after the agitation and rubbing during washing has already taken place. However, it may help in allowing some of the pilling to come away from the laundered article by stopping it sticking so easily
- For delicate items try using a washing net to protect the fabric from much of the friction ( Various wash nets ) from 4Washerhelp
- You could try spraying starch or fabric finish on collars and cuffs whilst ironing
- Don’t put your clothes in the dryer. Line dry and light iron if you need it.
Dealing with pilling (or bobbling)
- Bobbling can be removed by brushing, cutting or picking bobbles from the fabric
- Use something sticky like cellotape to remove less entrenched pilling if not covering too wide an area. I’ve also heard that some people have had success by brushing with a wet nailbrush. Alternatively there are specifically designed lint shavers available
Miele honeycomb drum
This would be an expensive way of trying to prevent pilling but I mention it in case you are considering buying a washing machine and have the money to buy a Miele. Many Miele washing machines are fitted with Miele’s unique honeycomb drum which has a sculptured surface instead of the normal punched holes. A thin film of water forms during washing which cushions the garments and reduces fibre breakage and pilling. Miele claim this drum is very much more gentle on laundry.
Written By - Washerhelp on April 28th, 2008 with
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