Why Does Knitwear Pill? 7 Ways to Reduce Pilling

Why does knitwear pill? Pilling happens when the ends of some fibres in the yarn rise to the fabric's surface during wear, friction or washing, then become tangled into small balls. It can be especially visible in frequently rubbed areas such as the underarms, points of contact with bags, the sides of the body and the inner sleeves. This does not automatically mean a garment is “poor quality”; fibre structure, yarn twist, knit surface and how the item is worn all play a role.

Quick answer: It is not always possible to eliminate pilling completely. However, reducing unnecessary friction, following the care label, washing the garment gently inside out, limiting contact with rough surfaces and carefully removing existing pills without damaging the knit can help preserve its appearance for longer.

Why does knitwear pill?

Loose fibre ends on a knitted surface can rise when rubbed. If these fibres become entangled instead of breaking off, they form small “pills”. Short fibres or fibres that readily come to the surface, loosely knitted structures and areas with frequent contact may show more pilling. This is why two different sweaters can pill at different rates, even when worn equally often.

For a broader introduction to knit structures and choosing garments, read the plus-size knitwear guide. You can also browse the current plus-size sweaters and cardigans collection.

Where is pilling most likely to appear?

Mechanical friction is one of the most common causes. Areas such as the underarms, inside of the sleeves, waist, shoulders touched by a bag strap, and fabric that rubs against a coat lining may therefore develop pills more quickly. Even a sleeve that repeatedly rubs against the edge of a desk during the day can be affected.

Seven ways to reduce pilling on knitwear

1. Make the care label your starting point

Every knitted garment has its own fibre blend and knit structure. The item's care label takes priority over this guide when choosing a wash temperature, washing programme or drying method.

2. Turn the garment inside out before washing

If the care label permits machine washing, turning knitwear inside out can reduce direct contact between its outer surface, the drum and other items. A delicate laundry bag may offer extra protection if appropriate for the label and the garment.

3. Avoid washing it with rough items

Zips, hook-and-loop fasteners, heavy denim and coarse-textured fabrics can increase friction against knitwear. Whenever possible, wash delicate knits with textiles that have similarly soft surfaces.

4. Reduce unnecessary washing

Every wash subjects the fibres to mechanical movement. If a garment is clean and has no odour or stains, airing it after use and avoiding unnecessarily frequent washing, within the limits of its care label, may be helpful.

5. Watch for friction from bags and outerwear

A rough bag strap, stiff coat lining or accessory that repeatedly touches the same spot can accelerate localised pilling. Even wearing the same sweater with the same bag every time may make a difference in one particular area.

6. Store the garment without squeezing it

Instead of pulling knitwear onto a hanger or compressing it between rough surfaces, store it clean, dry and neatly folded to reduce contact and friction.

7. Remove existing pills gently

If small balls have formed on the surface, try a knitwear comb or fabric shaver suited to the garment, using very light pressure without stretching the fabric. Test it on a small, inconspicuous area first. Cutting too close to the fabric with scissors or pulling fibres off by hand can damage the knit.

Can washing increase pilling?

Incorrect washing can speed up pilling. In particular, strong mechanical movement, rubbing against rough items and programmes that do not match the care instructions can disturb more surface fibres. For detailed steps on washing knitwear while helping it keep its shape, see our knitwear washing and care guide.

Is knitwear that pills necessarily low quality?

No. Pilling alone is not a definitive test of garment quality. Some fibres and knit structures naturally release more fibre ends to the surface. Consider yarn structure, seams, shape retention, intended use and care requirements together when assessing quality.

Do thick winter knits pill more?

There is no universal rule that “thicker knitwear always pills more”. Surface hairiness, yarn construction and friction during use are more meaningful factors. When evaluating winter pieces for warmth and layering, consult the winter sweater selection guide.

Does garment fit affect pilling?

It may have an indirect effect. For instance, a fit that creates repeated, intense rubbing under the arms or along the sides can increase surface wear in those areas. That does not mean “tight clothing always pills”. To evaluate fit and comfort of movement, see the guide to choosing the right knitwear cut.

How should you assess the risk of pilling in Hanezza knitwear?

Since Hanezza's product materials and collections can change over time, it would be inaccurate to promise the same pilling performance for every knitted garment. Before buying, check the current product description for material details and review its care label. Use each garment according to its own care instructions.

Frequently asked questions

Does pilling make a sweater look old?

Surface pills can affect the appearance by obscuring colour and knit texture. Gentle, regular surface care can help a garment look tidier.

Should you pull pills off knitwear by hand?

Pulling fibres off can draw out more fibres from the knit or strain its loops. Removing pills gently with a suitable care tool and very light pressure is more controlled.

Can a fabric shaver be used on every knitted garment?

No. On very loose, fluffy or delicate knits, a device may catch and damage loops. Check the care guidance first and test carefully with low pressure on a hidden area.

Does fabric softener completely prevent pilling?

No. Pilling is fundamentally related to fibre structure and friction. Do not use softener if the care label does not allow it. Even when permitted, it should not be considered a solution that “completely prevents” pilling.

Is knitwear that never pills automatically higher quality?

Quality cannot be judged by that criterion alone. Different fibres and knitted structures behave differently at the surface; durability, shape retention, seams, wearing comfort and care performance should all be considered.

Summary: Pilling on knitwear usually results from fibre ends interacting with friction. Following the care label, reducing surface rubbing, washing gently and carefully removing pills with the right tool are among the safest ways to manage its appearance.