Blanket Pilling: A Comprehensive Guide to Understanding and Preventing ItConclusion

Oleh Ervin Reilly May 31, 2023 Post a Comment

As the winter season approaches, many of us are looking forward to cozy nights spent wrapped up in our favorite blankets. However, if you've ever noticed small balls of fabric forming on your blanket's surface, then you're already familiar with the frustrating phenomenon known as blanket pilling.

In this article, we'll explore what causes blanket pilling, how to prevent it, and ways to address it if it's already occurred. By the end of this guide, you'll be well-equipped to keep your blankets looking and feeling their best for years to come.

What is Blanket Pilling?

Blanket pilling occurs when small balls of fabric form on the surface of a blanket. These pills are made up of loose fibers that have become tangled together, and they can make the blanket look worn and shabby. While pilling is most commonly associated with wool or flannel blankets, it can occur on any type of fabric.

What Causes Blanket Pilling?

There are several factors that can contribute to the formation of pills on a blanket. Some of the most common causes include:

Friction: When two surfaces rub against each other repeatedly, such as when a blanket is used frequently, it can cause the fibers to break down and form pills.
Low-Quality Fibers: If a blanket is made from low-quality fibers, it's more likely to pill. This is because the fibers are weaker and more prone to breaking down with use.
Washing and Drying: If a blanket is washed and dried too frequently or at too high a temperature, it can cause the fibers to break down and pill.
Chemical Treatments: Some blankets are treated with chemicals to make them softer or more durable. However, these treatments can also weaken the fibers and make them more prone to pilling.

How to Prevent Blanket Pilling

Preventing blanket pilling is often much easier than trying to remove pills once they've formed. Here are some tips to help keep your blankets looking their best:

Choose high-quality fabrics: When shopping for a new blanket, look for one made from high-quality fibers. Natural fibers like wool and cotton tend to be less prone to pilling than synthetic materials.
Wash and dry carefully: Be sure to follow the care instructions on your blanket's label. Avoid washing and drying at high temperatures, and use a gentle detergent.
Rotate blankets frequently: If you have several blankets that you use regularly, try rotating them frequently. This will help to distribute wear and tear more evenly, reducing the likelihood of pilling.
Store blankets properly: When not in use, store your blankets in a cool, dry place. Avoid folding them tightly, as this can cause creases that may lead to pilling.

How to Remove Blanket Pills

If your blanket has already ed to pill, don't worry – there are ways to remove those pesky balls of fabric. Here are some methods to try:

Use a fabric shaver: A fabric shaver is a handheld device that removes pills by gently shaving them off the surface of the fabric. This is a quick and easy way to restore the appearance of your blanket.
Use a lint roller: A lint roller can also be used to remove pills. Simply roll it over the surface of the blanket, and the sticky surface will pick up the pills.
Try a sweater stone: A sweater stone is a natural pumice stone that can be used to remove pills from blankets, sweaters, and other fabrics. Simply rub the stone gently over the surface of the fabric to remove the pills.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can blanket pilling be prevented entirely?

While it's not always possible to prevent blanket pilling entirely, there are steps you can take to minimize the likelihood of it occurring. Choosing high-quality fabrics and washing and drying carefully can go a long way toward preventing pilling.

2. Can all types of blankets pill?

Yes, all types of blankets have the potential to pill. However, some materials like wool and cotton tend to be less prone to pilling than synthetic materials.

3. Can I still use a blanket that has ed to pill?

Yes, you can still use a blanket that has ed to pill. While it may not look as nice as a new blanket, it will still provide warmth and comfort.

4. Is it better to remove pills by hand or with a tool?

While you can remove pills by hand, using a tool like a fabric shaver or lint roller is often quicker and more effective.

5. How often should I wash my blankets?

The frequency with which you should wash your blankets depends on how often they're used and how dirty they get. As a general rule, you should aim to wash your blankets every few months.

6. Can dryer sheets help prevent pilling?

Dryer sheets can help to reduce static cling and make your blankets feel softer, but they won't necessarily prevent pilling.

7. Can I prevent pilling by washing my blankets less frequently?

While washing your blankets less frequently may help to reduce the likelihood of pilling, it's important to follow the care instructions on the label to ensure that your blankets stay clean and fresh.

8. Can I prevent pilling by storing my blankets differently?

Storing your blankets properly can help to prevent pilling. Avoid folding them tightly, and store them in a cool, dry place when not in use.

9. How do I know if a fabric is prone to pilling?

Fabrics that are made from low-quality fibers or have been treated with chemicals are more prone to pilling. Natural fibers like wool and cotton tend to be less prone to pilling than synthetic materials.

10. Can I prevent pilling by using a different type of detergent?

Using a gentle detergent can help to prevent pilling, as harsh detergents can break down the fibers in your blankets.

Blanket pilling may be frustrating, but it's a common problem that can be prevented and addressed with the right approach. By choosing high-quality fabrics, washing and drying carefully, and storing your blankets properly, you can keep them looking and feeling their best for years to come. And if pills do form, there are plenty of tools and methods available to help you remove them quickly and easily.

We hope this guide has been helpful in understanding blanket pilling and how to prevent it. Stay cozy this winter!