How To · Fashion · Care
Remove Pilling from Wool and Knitwear Without Damage
Pilling happens to the best of us—even expensive merino. Here's how to restore your knitwear without creating new damage in the process.
5 min read · IrisPilling—those fuzzy balls that form on sweaters, cardigans, and joggers—isn't a sign of poor quality. It's friction damage. Fibers break and tangle, especially on pieces that get worn frequently or tossed in with rougher fabrics. The good news: you can remove it without professional dry cleaning, and the process takes minutes.
The method you choose depends on the severity of pilling and the fiber content. Delicate cashmere needs a different touch than chunky wool. We'll walk you through the safest options, from low-tech to slightly more involved, so your favorite knitwear actually lasts.
Pilling isn't a flaw—it's friction. And friction is fixable.
What you'll need.
- 01Fabric or pilling comb (best option for most knitwear)
- 02Soft-bristled brush or clean toothbrush (for delicate fibers)
- 03Fabric shaver or new disposable razor (for stubborn pilling only)
- 04Mild detergent (for final wash)
- 05Flat drying surface (bed, table, or towel)
Step one · 1 minute
Lay the garment flat on a clean surface
Spread your sweater, cardigan, or knit piece on a bed, table, or ironing board. Smooth it out gently so the fabric lies flat. This prevents bunching and ensures even contact with whatever tool you're using. Make sure the area with visible pilling is fully accessible and well-lit so you can see what you're working on.
Work on one section at a time if the piece is large. Rushing leads to uneven results.
Step two · 3 minutes
Use a fabric comb or pilling comb for light to moderate pilling
A dedicated pilling comb (also called a sweater comb) is the gentlest option for most knitwear. Hold it at a 45-degree angle and comb in one direction with light, even pressure. Don't scrub or apply force—let the comb's teeth do the work. Work in small sections, moving the comb slowly across the pilled area. You'll see the pills collect on the comb's teeth.
Pilling combs are inexpensive (under $10) and last forever. They're worth keeping in your laundry closet.
Step three · 2 minutes
Try a fine-tooth brush for delicate fibers like cashmere
For luxury knitwear or anything prone to snagging, a soft-bristled brush or old toothbrush works well. Use the same 45-degree angle and gentle, directional strokes. This method is slower but safer for fragile yarns. Brush in the direction of the nap (the way the fabric naturally lies) to avoid disrupting the knit structure.
Test on an inconspicuous area first if you're nervous. One or two gentle strokes will show you if the fiber is stable.
Step four · 2 minutes
For stubborn pilling, use a disposable razor or lint shaver
If combing doesn't fully remove the pills, a fabric shaver or a clean, single-blade disposable razor can work—but only on sturdy knits like wool or cotton blends. Hold it flat against the fabric at a 90-degree angle and make short, light strokes in one direction. Do not press down or use a scrubbing motion. This method removes pills by cutting them, so restraint is essential to avoid cutting the knit itself.
This is the riskiest method. Skip it entirely for delicate or loosely knit fabrics. A dedicated fabric shaver (around $15) is safer than a razor.
Step five · 1 minute
Remove loose fibers and inspect
Once you've finished, gently brush away any loose fibers with your hand or a soft brush. Hold the garment up to the light and check your work. You may see some residual texture, especially if the pilling was severe, but the fuzzy balls should be gone. This is normal—knitwear texture isn't perfectly smooth.
If you missed spots, repeat the process. Multiple gentle passes are safer than one aggressive one.
Step six · 1 minute
Wash and dry to reset the fibers
After pilling removal, give the piece a gentle hand wash in cool water with mild detergent, or use the delicate cycle if the label allows it. This resets the fibers and removes any loose bits. Lay flat to dry. The garment will look refreshed and the knit structure will settle back into place.
Washing also prevents future pilling by relaxing the fibers. Make it part of your regular care routine.
How to know it worked
The pilled area should feel smoother and look less fuzzy. The knit structure underneath should be intact—no holes, snags, or thinning. If you see damage, you've applied too much pressure. The garment may still have slight texture variation, which is fine; knitwear isn't meant to be perfectly smooth.
Questions at the mirror.
Will pilling come back?
Yes, if the garment continues to experience friction. Pilling removal is temporary. To minimize future pilling, wash less frequently, use a mesh laundry bag, avoid pilling it against rough surfaces (like backpack straps), and store it folded rather than on a hanger if possible.
Is pilling a sign the sweater is low quality?
Not necessarily. Even luxury cashmere and merino pills. Lower-quality knitwear may pill faster because the fibers are weaker, but pilling itself is a natural result of wear, not a manufacturing defect.
Can I use a regular lint roller?
No. Lint rollers are too aggressive and will damage knitwear. Stick to combs, soft brushes, or dedicated fabric shavers designed for this purpose.
What if the pilling is really severe?
If the entire garment is heavily pilled or you're worried about damaging it, take it to a dry cleaner. They have professional-grade equipment and experience. For minor to moderate pilling, the methods above work well.