How to remove pills from a cashmere sweater?

Aug 10, 2026

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Hey there! As a cashmere sweater supplier, I know firsthand how frustrating it can be to deal with pills on these luxurious garments. Cashmere is a delicate and soft material, but it's prone to pilling over time. In this blog, I'll share some effective ways to remove pills from a cashmere sweater, so you can keep your sweaters looking as good as new.

Understanding Why Cashmere Pills

Before we dive into the removal methods, it's important to understand why cashmere pills in the first place. Cashmere fibers are fine and soft, and when they rub against each other or other fabrics, the friction causes the fibers to break and tangle. These tangled fibers form small balls, which we call pills. Activities like wearing the sweater under a backpack, sitting in a car seat, or even just normal movement can contribute to pilling.

Tools You'll Need

To remove pills from your cashmere sweater, you don't need a lot of fancy equipment. Here are some common tools that work well:

  • Pilling Comb: This is a specialized comb with sharp teeth designed to cut through the pills. It's gentle on the cashmere fibers and can effectively remove pills without causing too much damage.
  • Lint Roller: A simple lint roller can also be used to pick up loose pills on the surface of the sweater. It's a quick and easy way to get rid of the most visible pills.
  • Scissors: If you don't have a pilling comb, you can use a pair of sharp scissors to carefully cut off the pills. Just be very careful not to cut the cashmere fibers.

Step-by-Step Guide to Removing Pills

Now that you have your tools ready, here's how you can remove pills from your cashmere sweater:

  1. Prepare the Sweater: Lay the sweater flat on a clean surface. Make sure it's clean and dry before you start removing the pills. If the sweater is dirty, it's best to wash it first according to the care instructions.
  2. Use the Pilling Comb: If you're using a pilling comb, start at one end of the sweater and gently run the comb over the surface. The teeth of the comb will catch the pills and cut them off. Move the comb in one direction, and be careful not to press too hard, as this can damage the cashmere fibers.
  3. Pick Up Loose Pills: After using the pilling comb, use a lint roller to pick up any loose pills that are still on the sweater. Roll the lint roller over the surface of the sweater in a smooth motion.
  4. Trim with Scissors (Optional): If there are any stubborn pills that the comb and lint roller couldn't remove, you can use a pair of sharp scissors to carefully cut them off. Hold the sweater taut and snip the pills as close to the surface as possible.

Preventing Future Pilling

While it's impossible to completely prevent cashmere from pilling, there are some things you can do to minimize it:

  • Choose High-Quality Cashmere: Higher-quality cashmere fibers are less likely to pill. When purchasing a cashmere sweater, look for sweaters made from long-staple fibers, as they are more durable.
  • Wash with Care: Follow the care instructions on the label when washing your cashmere sweater. Use a gentle detergent and wash it in cold water. Avoid wringing or twisting the sweater, as this can cause the fibers to break and pill.
  • Avoid Rough Surfaces: Try to avoid wearing your cashmere sweater against rough surfaces, such as backpacks or car seats. If you need to wear a backpack, consider wearing a protective layer between the sweater and the backpack.

Our Cashmere Sweaters

At our company, we offer a wide range of high-quality cashmere sweaters. Whether you're looking for a Boxy Cashmere Cardigan, a Cashmere Full Zip Cardigan, or a Best Plus Size Button Cashmere Cardigan Sweaters, we've got you covered. Our sweaters are made from the finest cashmere fibers, ensuring softness, warmth, and durability.

men’s zip up cashmere sweaterBoxy Cashmere Cardigan

Contact Us for Purchase

If you're interested in purchasing our cashmere sweaters or have any questions about our products, feel free to reach out to us. We're always happy to help you find the perfect cashmere sweater for your needs. Whether you're a retailer looking to stock our products or an individual shopper, we're here to provide you with the best service and quality.

References

  • "Cashmere Care Guide." Cashmere Association.
  • "How to Remove Pills from Cashmere." The Spruce.