Dealing with Fabric Pilling? Here's What You Need to KnowUpdated 9 months ago

What is Pilling?

Ever noticed those tiny little balls of fabric on your sofa? That's pilling. It happens when excess fibres from the fabric form small balls or 'pills' on the surface.

Pilling happens because of friction. When you sit or move around on your sofa, the friction can cause loose fibres to twist together and form those little pills. While it's more common with synthetic fibres, even natural fabrics like cotton and linen can pill.

How to Remove Pills?

Thankfully, you can treat pills to restore the fabric's appearance. Try using the following tools:

• Fabric Shaver: Look for one with a larger shaver head to cover more area in fewer passes and a bigger lint containment bin to reduce the number of times you need to empty it.
• Pill Comb:  Ideal for a manual approach and works well on delicate fabrics. It's a gentle way to de-pill with less risk of damaging the material.
• Lint Roller or Tape: Quick and easy for picking up loose pills. However, it might not be as effective for severe pilling.

Will Pilling Stop Over Time?

Yes, pilling often decreases after the initial few months as the loose fibres are removed. Regular maintenance can help manage and reduce pilling over time.

How to Prevent Pilling?

• Rotate Cushions: Swap and flip your cushions regularly so they wear evenly.
• Reduce Friction: Try to avoid sliding across the sofa too much, this includes pets and young kids jumping on the sofa. 
• Gentle Cleaning:When you're vacuuming or cleaning your sofa covers, use gentle motions to avoid aggravating the fabric.
• Choose the Right Fabric: You can also avoid pilling altogether by picking non-flat-woven fabrics such as velvet and fleece.

Pilling is not a fabric defect. Although the excess fibres get tangled up after regular use, the underlying fabric's durability and function aren't affected. That said, we know that the presence of pills on your sofa covers can make your sofa look worn or old.