How to get rid of pellets and prevent their appearance on clothes

Alas, over time, worn items become covered with unpresentable ball-shaped formations. Almost any natural fabric falls off; synthetics are less susceptible to this. But what if this happens, and the item is a favorite or was recently purchased and it’s a pity to throw it away? There are several ways to remove pills from clothes without damaging the fabric.

What are the reasons for the formation of pellets?

In order to prevent the occurrence of lumps that spoil the appearance of things, it is worth arming yourself with information about their appearance.

There are several factors:

1. Origin of fabric. On pure synthetics, pellets appear reluctantly. But on mixed fabrics, and even with poor processing quality, lumps form quickly. Natural, lighter, as a rule, fibers are split and wound onto synthetic threads stretched like a string, which leads to pilling.
2. Weakness of the material. Fabrics with a soft, fluffy texture will almost certainly shed. The looser the fabric, the higher the risk of lumps. This also includes long thread broaches, which make the fabric soft, but, alas, also dangerous for pilling.
3. Illiterate care. Carefully studying the label after purchasing clothes will help to minimize the occurrence of ball-shaped formations, for example, from pants. You need to follow the correct washing regime for a particular item: select the appropriate detergents, set the appropriate temperature, duration, spin speed, etc.
4. Among the common causes of the formation of ball-shaped formations is constant friction of the fabric during wear. Therefore, pajamas, bed linen, sweaters and turtlenecks under outerwear are at risk. This also happens if, for example, a bag (backpack) is worn on one shoulder.

Advice! Haste or reluctance to follow simple recommendations leads to a problem that will require not only time, but also money to solve.

Machine for removing pellets

The use of a special mechanism will help remove pills from clothes and give them a presentable look. The option is not cheap, but reliable, allowing you to get rid of matted lumps. A similar device is suitable for wool (for example, angora, mohair) and knitted fabrics.

The device cuts the balls very carefully and does not damage the fabric. When choosing a shaver at a budget price, you should make sure that the height of the knife is adjustable. This is necessary so that soft balls can be cleaned from decorated fabrics without damaging rhinestones, embroidery, other decorations and the material itself.

Such a device is equipped with a container into which the pellets are collected. It runs on both batteries and mains power. The dimensions of the device are small; it fits easily in a purse. Therefore, you can take it when leaving, for example, on vacation or on a business trip. In addition, the mini machine is safe to use.

Disadvantages include fragility and rapid dulling of the blades, which leads to a decrease in the result obtained. Also, cleaning one item with an inexpensive model will take longer than using a more expensive option. Cheap shaver batteries run out faster and containers fill up with pellets. This extends the process of cleaning things over time, since it is necessary to empty the containers of their contents.

conclusions

Among inexpensive machines for removing pellets, the Maxwell MW-3102 and Scarlett SC-920 devices have proven themselves well. They are easy to use, get the job done, and have an affordable price.

Some of the best trimmers that remove pellets are Xiaomi Mijia and Maxwell MW-3101. According to customer reviews, these units have an optimal price-quality ratio. Such mobile devices are indispensable for caring for clothes outside the home.

If you are buying a device for home use, pay attention to the Mikma IP-1002 model. This device can work indefinitely because it is connected to the network. It has a carefully thought-out design and a convenient long cord.

Models Tefal Lint Remover JB1013/JB1011 and Philips GC026 represent premium household appliances. These universal devices can efficiently clean any products made from different materials - from thin delicate fabrics to carpets.

Duct tape

Scotch tape, adhesive tape, adhesive tape, and a roller with adhesive strips can help remove pellets from clothes. They can be used if matted lumps are discovered just before leaving the house, and there is no time to process the item with a shaver. It is difficult to achieve an ideal result with adhesive tape, but visible balls can be removed in a short time.

To do this you should:

• apply a sticky strip to the fabric;
• press it with force;
• tear off sharply, while holding the material.

This method is not suitable for use on thin and light-colored materials. Traces of a sticky substance are easily imprinted on them, and clothes, including your favorite sweater, lose their attractive appearance.

Rechargeable

Xiaomi Deerma DEM-MQ811

A very stylish gadget that operates from a rechargeable battery. For this purpose, the kit includes a USB/micro USB charger. The model is equipped with a convenient handle-holder, the dimensions of the model are small.

As for performance, there are extremely positive reviews about it. The device quickly and effectively removes pellets from all types of fabrics. It will not be difficult for the user to cut off imperfections even from the softest things, including knitwear. The diameter of the mesh is chosen perfectly, thanks to this, pellets of any size are collected. The main material of manufacture is stainless steel. To simplify operation, the product is equipped with special indicators. One of the inconveniences is the lack of a container for collecting debris. This makes it much more difficult to collect debris and clean the machine.

Xiaomi Deerma DEM-MQ811

Advantages:

• stylish ergonomic design;
• chargeable battery;
• efficiency;
• charge indicator;
• high speed.

Flaws:

• lack of container;
• There are no instructions in Russian.

The average cost is 1,000 Russian rubles.

Centek CT-2471

A convenient device that operates thanks to the presence of a capacious battery. A full charge can provide uninterrupted operation for 45 minutes. This is more than enough time to process several sweaters. You can replenish the battery level directly from the outlet.

The model is equipped with a comfortable handle. Like most similar products, this device will ensure effective removal of lint, which is collected in a container. In addition, the manufacturer included a blade cleaning brush in the price.

Centek CT-2471

Advantages:

• rechargeable battery;
• thoughtful configuration;
• full set.

Flaws:

• very long battery charging time. In order to get 100% battery level, the gadget will have to be charged for more than 8 hours.

The average cost is 1,000 Russian rubles.

Marta MT-2233

This model is ideal for users looking for a travel option. The lightweight, compact device can easily fit into a handbag and does not take up much space in a suitcase.

Autonomous operation is ensured by a capacious battery; a cable is included to replenish its charge level. The cutting part consists of sharp knives and a delicate mesh that prevents damage to the fibers. As for lint and threads, they can be easily removed in one movement. Garbage accumulates in the tank, the device is designed for 60 minutes of uninterrupted operation.

Marta MT-2233

Advantages:

• small sizes;
• high-quality assembly;
• presence of battery.

Flaws:

• none.

The average cost is 500 Russian rubles.

Sinbo SS-4019

The gadget has an unusual configuration and runs on a battery. The device should be used on clothes lying horizontally, so the user will get the most optimal result. The weight of the model is slightly higher than other analogues, but the device can clean large areas at once.

Reviews about the use of the gadget are in most cases positive; the price of the product includes a brush and container. A big disadvantage will be the lack of product for sale, since it has been discontinued, but if desired, the user will be able to find the device in online stores.

Sinbo SS-4019

Advantages:

• convenient to use;
• capacious battery;
• stylish design;
• efficiency and productivity.

Flaws:

• heavy weight;
• difficult to find on sale;
• long charge.

Average cost - on request.

Blade or safety razor

The quick and radical method should be used only in extreme cases, since it is not safe for the canvas. If you choose a non-razor blade, you must proceed with extreme caution. The spools are cut literally one at a time so as not to damage the material.

Advice! It is easier to get rid of pellets on fabric with a safety razor.

You need to work with the blade according to the following algorithm:

1. The blade is fixed in the razor, then the fabric is stretched, and slow movements are made along it with the tip from top to bottom. This method is good for getting rid of balls on knitwear. But when using the method for cleaning woolen items, you need to use an already used blade. The fabric should be stretched to the maximum, and you need to move along it from the bottom up, cutting off the spools with care.
2. Work should be on a flat, hard surface under good lighting.
3. Having processed the item once, you need to turn it over and, moving in the opposite direction, clean the product again.

This option is ideal if pellets are removed from smooth materials and hats. At the same time, tights, socks, mittens, and gloves are easier to handle when worn on the legs and arms. It is not recommended to “shave” pellets from items made of thick wool, such as angora, cashmere, or mohair.

Method No. 5. "Epilation!"

Well, manufacturers of household appliances could not ignore this problem! Noticing how the pellets stuck to clothes, they proposed a civilized solution to this problem. We present to your attention a pellet machine or trimmer.

To the delight of everyone who is looking at this method, these special machines, even from more or less well-known companies, are inexpensive - we have not seen a price higher than 400 rubles. And the average price of such an assistant is 180–200 rubles.

Reviews about pellet clippers are mostly positive. You can get acquainted with them below. But before that, let's look at what a machine (trimmer) for cutting pellets is and how it works?

In appearance, the machine resembles a small hair dryer without an attachment or an electric razor.

The operating principle of this device is very simple.

• A motor hidden in the housing moves the fan and blade. They are covered with mesh on top. You move it in a circular motion over the item, or from top to bottom, whatever is convenient for you, and the blade cuts off the pellets, which fall into a special compartment-container.
• The container can be easily removed and freed from debris.
• The first models only ran on AA batteries. More modern ones use batteries that are recharged from the mains. There are also machines that operate on mains power.

When choosing a clipper for cutting pellets, do not rush to trust the advertising of “Shops on the Couch” or buy a similar thing in subway passages. Although, as the reviews say, there are some pretty decent options there too. We invite you to familiarize yourself with specific models in more detail in order to choose a pellet trimmer that will not spoil your favorite item.

Toothbrush

The bristles of this hygienic item will help get rid of pills on clothes that are impossible or not desirable to clean with a razor. For work, take an old toothbrush whose bristles have reached a mild state.

The processing is carried out so that the matted lumps cling to the brush. This is possible by adjusting the pressure. You need to direct the brush along the pile. This will help avoid fluffing the surface and thinning it in problematic areas. “Combing” the item should be carried out until the pellets completely disappear.

Advice! If cleaning has excessively crushed the lint on the material, the clothing should be immersed in warm water and vinegar (1:1). Such manipulation will return the fluffiness to things.

Rating table

*prices are as of August 2021

Extreme method: sandpaper

With the help of this item, you can get rid of matted lumps on thick fabrics from which, for example, coats are sewn. This is similar to the method of removing pellets with a blade. Moreover, the “sandpaper” leaves the material intact.

Important! This option is not suitable for cleaning smooth fabrics, since there is a considerable risk of ruining the clothes.

The magazine “Womenburg.ru” recommends using fine-grained paper against pellets: it will definitely not damage the material. However, the fabric should be rubbed gently and without force.

Instead of sandpaper, you can use the hard side of a new sponge for washing dishes. You should rub the fabric with it just as carefully.

Scissors

This method is considered not very effective. But scissors are always at hand at home, so they are often used to cut balls.

1. Sharp manicure scissors are used.
2. Cut off annoying formations one at a time, carefully monitoring so as not to damage the fabric.

Advice! Pre-combing the material with a fine-toothed comb simplifies the task.

It is worth considering that with this method, cutting off the pellets will take a lot of time.

How to remove pills from jackets and sweaters

Before you start cleaning, you need to determine what material the clothes are made of. Such defects rarely occur on synthetic fabrics.

Sweatshirts and sweaters made of natural wool pill in areas of frequent friction:

• in the armpits;
• on the elbows;
• at the gate.

These areas should be carefully checked after washing. If insidious lumps are found, remove them.

The easiest way is to cut off the pellets with a special machine. The method is universal and helps to safely remove lumps from any fabric.

Follow safety precautions and manufacturer's instructions. Some models are powered by electricity, others are battery-powered.

Experts advise using improvised means if there is no special device at hand:

• Remove large lumps with scissors with a thin narrow blade.
• You can try the method with an old toothbrush on a light knitted blouse.
• Adhesive tape, adhesive tape or adhesive tape are suitable for removing small elements.

Advice! Be careful when using sticky compounds. They can leave marks and pull the fabric in unwanted places.

Dried bread

Pieces of loose gray or black bread dried in the oven are used. Crackers will crumble slightly if they are prepared from thickly sliced ​​bread slices.

Taking such a cracker in your hand, gently rub it over your clothes. The material is held during the process to prevent it from deforming. In part, the method is reminiscent of working with sandpaper.

Advice! Pumice has a similar loose structure; you can try it, but the stone is much harder than bread and damages the canvas more easily.

Prevention of pellets

It is well known: it is better to prevent problems, then you won’t have to rack your brains to eliminate them. And although pellets are not a global disaster, they can worsen your mood. This is what our resource recommends to follow so that pellets do not appear on things at all, or at least form in small quantities:

1. You should wear, wash, dry, iron things following clear rules. They consist of reading labels on clothes and choosing the appropriate washing mode, detergent, etc.
2. Washing powders must be used with special anti-pilling ingredients. Such detergents bear the designation “softens fabric fibers.” The disadvantage of these components is their specific aroma. You should also not forget about the compatibility of such products with water and a variety of matter.
3. Items that are prone to pilling are washed on a gentle cycle using conditioner.
4. The pellets are eliminated as soon as they appear on the clothes. It is easier and faster to remove a few lumps than to thoroughly clean a large surface.
5. Knitted items can only be washed in low temperature water. In addition, the “delicate wash” mode is used. Woolen items are sent for washing along with special detergents and softening conditioner in the “hand wash” or “wool” mode.
6. Knitwear must not be soaked, rubbed or twisted during washing. Knitted items are ironed with an iron heated to the temperature indicated on the label.
7. Expensive items should be sent to the dry cleaner to get rid of pellets.

Pills, as the first sign of “wear and tear” of any thing, even expensive ones, can and should be dealt with. Thrifty owners of clothes prone to clumping successfully remove annoying matted balls. And many housewives prevent their formation. Craftsmen thereby save clothes from being forced to “move” to the country, from replenishing the home storage in the back of the closet, or from the appearance of new rags.

Master class on the topic: How to get rid of pilling on a knitted T-shirt

Thin knitwear can be cleaned with tape or a garment roller. The disadvantage of this method is that not all pellets may stick. Small lumps from a T-shirt can be carefully cut off with a blade. To do this you need:

• Place the product on a flat table surface.
• Stretch the fabric. To do this, you can use the help of friends.
• It is easy to move a razor or disposable razor over problem areas without pressure.
• Check to see if all elements have been removed and if there are any traces left.

Be extremely careful, there is a possibility of damaging the canvas. Therefore, this method should not be used for expensive items.