How to Remove Pilling from Woolen and Crochet Clothes

After some wear and washing, woolen and crochet clothes often get small fuzzy balls on the surface. These are called pills (in Urdu we often call it “bhur”). They make a favourite sweater or baby dress look old, but the good news is that pilling is normal, it does not mean the garment is damaged, and it can be removed safely at home.

Why does wool get pills?

Pills form when short, loose fibres on the surface rub against each other and twist into tiny balls. It happens most where there is friction, like under the arms, on the sides, at the cuffs and where a baby is carried. Soft, fluffy yarns such as wool, acrylic and blends pill more than smooth cotton.

How to remove pills safely

1. Fabric shaver (lint remover)

An electric fabric shaver is the quickest method. Lay the garment flat on a table, hold the fabric gently tight and move the shaver in small circles with very light pressure. On crochet, keep the shaver flat and avoid pressing into the holes and lace areas.

2. Sweater comb or stone

A sweater comb or pumice-like sweater stone lifts pills without electricity. Brush lightly in one direction across the surface. This is a gentle choice for wool and baby clothes.

3. Pick by hand

For a few pills, or on delicate lace and flowers, simply pinch each pill and snip it off with small sharp scissors. It takes longer but it is the safest method for fine crochet work.

4. Sticky lint roller or tape

A lint roller or a strip of packing tape picks up loose fluff after shaving. It will not remove firmly attached pills on its own, but it gives a clean finish.

What not to do

• Don’t pull pills off: pulling drags out more fibres and makes thin spots.
• Don’t use a regular razor on crochet: it can easily cut a loop and start a hole.
• Don’t press hard: light pressure and patience give the best result.
• Never burn pills off with a flame or lighter: acrylic and blended yarns melt, and fluffy yarn can catch fire quickly. It is never safe, especially for baby clothes.

How to prevent pilling

• Turn the garment inside out before washing.
• Hand wash gently in cool water with a mild detergent, or use a mesh laundry bag on a delicate cycle.
• Do not wring or rub; press out the water and dry flat in the shade.
• Avoid the tumble dryer.
• Wash woolens separately from rough items like jeans and towels.
• Store folded, not hanging, and let the garment rest a day between wears.

For full washing steps, read our crochet care guide. If you are choosing a new piece, our yarn guide explains which yarns pill less.

Need help with a Mazagia piece?

If your Mazagia crochet item has pilling and you are unsure how to treat it, send us a photo on WhatsApp and we will gladly guide you.

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