Pimples on clothes are a common annoyance. The garment can look worn even though it has only been washed a few times. Many people think it is due to poor quality, but there are usually several other explanations.
What exactly are pimples?
Pilling occurs when loose fibers in the fabric become tangled and form small balls on the surface. They become embedded in the garment and do not disappear on their own.
Materials that pill more easily
Some materials are more prone to pilling than others, especially:
• synthetic materials such as polyester and acrylic
• mixed materials, for example cotton with polyester
• knitted garments with short fibers
The shorter and looser the fibers are, the easier they come loose and form lumps.
Washing and abrasion play a big role
Pimples occur more often when garments are exposed to a lot of friction. This can include:
• harsh washing programs
• high centrifugation
• overloaded washing machine
• wash together with coarse garments such as jeans or towels
All this movement causes the fibers to rub against each other.
Fabric softener and detergent residue
Overdosing on detergent or regularly using fabric softener can make the fibers softer but also more susceptible to abrasion. This can increase the risk of pilling, especially on already delicate garments.
How to reduce the risk of pimples
• turn the garments inside out before washing
• use gentle programs
• wash delicate garments in a laundry bag
• avoid overfilling the machine
• air dry instead of tumble dry
Can you remove pimples?
Yes, pimples can often be removed with a pimple remover or shaver designed for textiles. We sell the best ones here at Knapppålen. It removes the pimples but does not change the cause, so the right washing routine is important to prevent them from coming back quickly.
