How to keep your knitwear looking its best: all about pilling

Of course, you want to keep your favourite knitwear looking beautiful for as long as possible. Over time, however, small balls of fluff may appear on the surface. This is called pilling.

Pilling is caused by friction, for example under the arms, along the sides, or in areas where a bag or jacket regularly rubs against the fabric.

Good to know: pilling is not a sign of poor quality. It is a natural result of friction and a characteristic of soft yarns.

With the right care, it can easily be reduced and removed.

Wash less, air more

The great thing about wool is that it doesn’t need to be washed very often. In many cases, simply airing your knitwear is enough. Give your knitwear a little rest after wearing and leave it in a well-ventilated place to freshen up.

Does it need a wash after all? Always check the care label first. Wash your garment gently in cold or lukewarm water using a mild wool detergent. Avoid rubbing or wringing — soft knitwear deserves a little extra love.

Give your knitwear a little rest

The more friction, the greater the chance of pilling. Think of a shoulder bag, a coarse jacket or layers of clothing that constantly rub against each other.

You certainly don’t need to save your favourite knit for special occasions, but a little extra care will help keep it looking beautiful for longer.

Spotted some pilling?

No problem. Lay your garment flat and gently go over the surface with a cashmere comb, fabric comb or fabric shaver. Avoid pulling the pills off with your fingers, as this can damage the fibres.

Josephine’s care tip

A little care goes a long way.

A little airing, rest and love can work wonders. That way, your favourite knitwear stays beautiful season after season.