Remove Pilling from Cashmere: 5 Expert-Approved Methods

Even the finest cashmere can pill — and that’s not necessarily a sign of poor quality. In fact, pilling is a natural reaction of soft, short-staple fibers to friction. But knowing how to manage it can extend the life of your garment and keep it looking immaculate for years.

Here are five expert-approved techniques to remove pilling from cashmere safely and effectively — without damaging the fabric’s structure or softness.

What Is Pilling — And Why Does It Happen?

Pills are small balls of tangled fiber that form on the surface of the fabric due to abrasion. They tend to appear:

• Where fabric rubs against itself (e.g. underarms, sleeves, neckline)
• After repeated washing or friction during wear
• More often in lower-ply or shorter fiber cashmere

Even high-end 1-ply cashmere — like a Sozni-embroidered shawl — may develop light pilling over time. The key is removing it gently and consistently.

1. Use a Cashmere Comb (The Gentle Classic)

A cashmere comb is a flat handheld tool with fine, short metal teeth designed specifically to lift pills from knitwear and woven garments.

How to use:

• Lay the garment flat on a clean surface
• Gently stroke in one direction along the grain of the weave
• Do not press too hard — let the comb do the work

Cashmere combs are widely available and inexpensive. They are ideal for seasonal maintenance and suit most shawls, scarves, and sweaters.

2. Try a Fabric Shaver (With Caution)

Battery-operated fabric shavers can remove pills quickly — but they must be used with care. Shavers use a rotating blade under a metal guard to cut away pills.

Use only if:

• The cashmere is dense, like a blanket or 2-ply knitwear
• You test it first on a small, hidden area
• You keep the surface flat and taut

We do not recommend fabric shavers on fine handwoven pieces or embroidered cashmere.

3. Use Sticky Tape or a Lint Roller (For Light Pills)

If pills are just beginning to form, a strip of high-quality masking tape or a lint roller can lift them off before they tangle further.

Best for:

• Lightweight scarves
• Travel wraps
• Cashmere-blend accessories

Do not use strong adhesive tapes, which can distort the weave or pull fine fibers loose.

4. Trim with Nail Scissors (Precision Method)

For isolated pills — particularly near embroidery or fringe — use a pair of sharp manicure scissors to snip the pill close to the surface.

Tips:

• Use natural light and a steady hand
• Never tug or pull the pill
• Avoid cutting into the actual weave

This method is time-consuming but safest for bespoke shawls and heirloom pieces.

5. Prevent Future Pilling

The best way to manage pilling is to prevent it from becoming severe in the first place:

• Store shawls folded, not hung (see why here)
• Avoid wearing the same garment multiple days in a row
• Use a steamer to refresh fabric instead of washing
• Handwash with cashmere-safe detergent (our care guide)

Are Pills a Sign of Poor Quality?

Not necessarily. Finer, softer fibers — such as those under 15 microns — are more likely to pill than coarser yarns. That’s because luxury-grade cashmere is naturally delicate and friction-sensitive.

As long as pilling is occasional and manageable, it’s normal. Only excessive, immediate pilling may indicate subpar quality or overly short staple length.

Conclusion: Maintenance is Part of Ownership

Cashmere is a living textile — it responds to how it’s worn, stored, and treated. Removing pills isn’t a nuisance; it’s part of the relationship between you and the garment.

With the right tools and gentle hands, your shawls, sweaters, and scarves will stay smooth and elegant for years to come.

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Want to know more about cashmere? See our Cashmere Knowledge Hub.