Pilling of textiles: Causes and remedies

Abstract

Pilling of textiles is a serious problem that results in the loss of esthetic appeal of garments. However, there are various remedies that primarily starts with the identification of the problem. Pilling in garment appears during wearing as well as washing, due to the rubbing action. Pills can form for any staple fiber, whether synthetic or natural, including cotton and wool, but the problem is more prominent in polyester fibers. Factors that are responsible for pilling include fiber length and denier, low twist, hairy and bulky yarns, single yarn, type of weave, and type of finish. Selecting the best parameters of each can reduce pilling, but in many situations these restrictions can affect other desirable characteristics of the fabric. Pilling can be controlled by various methods including proper selection of fiber, prevention of abrasion during batch processing, and shearing and cropping with brushing to eliminate surface fibers and protruding fibers. It is not possible to eliminate pilling completely due to various requirements demanded by consumers, such as softness, suppleness, and comfort. However, it can be effectively controlled by taking preventive as well as curative measures.