Pilling is the enemy of great leggings. Here's how to prevent it and keep your bold prints looking sharp.
What Causes Pilling?
Pilling occurs when short or broken fibers on the fabric surface tangle together into small balls. It's caused by friction — between the fabric and other surfaces during wear, and between fabrics during washing. Lower-quality fabrics with shorter fibers pill faster. Higher-quality fabrics with longer, tightly woven fibers resist pilling better.
Prevention During Washing
- Turn inside out: Reduces friction on the outer (printed) surface during washing.
- Use a mesh laundry bag: Prevents friction between leggings and other garments.
- Wash with similar fabrics: Avoid washing with rough fabrics like denim, towels, or velcro items.
- Gentle cycle: Less mechanical agitation means less friction.
- Cold water: Hot water weakens fibers and makes them more susceptible to pilling.
- Air dry: Tumble drying creates friction and heat that accelerates pilling.
Prevention During Wear
- Avoid rough surfaces (concrete, rough gym equipment) that create friction against the fabric.
- Be mindful of bag straps and backpacks rubbing against the waistband area.
- Avoid wearing leggings under rough denim or corduroy.
If Pilling Has Already Started
A fabric shaver (also called a lint shaver or defuzzer) can remove existing pills and restore the smooth surface of your leggings. Use it gently on the affected areas. This won't fix the underlying cause, but it can extend the life of a pilling pair.
FAQ
Do all leggings eventually pill? Lower-quality leggings will pill faster. High-quality leggings with dense fabric construction and proper care can last years without significant pilling.
Does fabric softener cause pilling? Fabric softener coats fibers and can actually make them more prone to pilling over time, in addition to destroying moisture-wicking properties. Avoid it entirely for activewear.
