Pimpled sweaters aren't just an aesthetic problem—they're also uncomfortable to the touch, shorten the life of your garment, and cause frustration every time you pull an otherwise perfectly good piece out of your closet. Pimples, or textile balls caused by rubbing fibers, are especially common on wool, acrylic, fleece, and other knits. First you notice one, then a whole family—and before you know it, your favorite sweater looks like it's been through three seasons of Game of Thrones.
The good news? Your wrinkled sweaters don't have to be thrown away just yet. With a few simple but effective methods, you can remove wrinkle marks from your clothes at home - without using electric removers, without expensive dry cleaning procedures, and above all, without the risk of ruining the delicate fabric. Below, we reveal the most proven home tricks that fashion experts actually approve of.
3 proven methods for rescuing wrinkled sweaters
1. Manual razor: for precise and safe removal of kittens
A hand razor is one of the most effective tools for removing lint, especially on smooth knits like acrylic or cotton sweaters.
Process:
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- Lay the garment on a flat surface and lightly stretch the surface of the fabric (a flat board or table works best).
- Use it new, a clean manual razor with as few blades as possible (ideally one or two) – more blades mean a higher risk of damaging the fabric.
- Use gentle, short strokes to pull the razor in the direction of the grain, without applying pressure.
- Wipe the razor after each stroke to avoid transferring the lint back onto your clothing.
Suitable for: cotton, acrylic, polyester, smooth blends.
We do not recommend: for cashmere or long-staple fabrics.
2. Heel stone (pumice stone): a mechanical but gentle method for thicker fabrics
A heel stone, commonly known as a pumice stone, is great for thicker knits as it mechanically removes lint without damaging the underlying fiber structure.
Process:
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- Use a clean, dry pumice stone with a rough surface.
- Lay the garment on a flat surface and stretch the fabric.
- Rub in one direction, preferably along the weave, using gentle pressure.
- The kittens will get caught on the stone, so clean it several times during the process (easiest way is with a dry brush or glue roller).
Suitable for: wool, fleece, thicker knitwear.
We do not recommend: for fine, delicate fabrics or blends with silk.
3. Dishwashing sponge: for more delicate clothes
A dish sponge is surprisingly useful for removing grime from more delicate materials. Its abrasive, but softer, rough side is used.
Process:
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- Use it a new, clean sponge, which has not yet been in contact with detergents.
- Place the garment on a flat surface and stretch it slightly.
- Use the rough side of the sponge to gently rub the area with the kittens – always in one direction.
- Repeat the process if necessary, but without applying too much pressure.
Suitable for: viscose, thinner wool, blends with elastane.
We do not recommend: for very shaggy fabrics (long-fibre fleece).
Bonus tips for lint-free clothing care:
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- Washing on the head: Always wash sweaters inside out as this reduces friction.
- Mesh bags: Use delicate laundry bags to prevent rubbing against other clothes.
- Do not tumble dry: The high temperature and mechanical movement of the dryer are the best friends of… a kitten.
- Regular removal of kittens: Don't wait until there are too many of them - remove them as you go and your sweaters will thank you.
Conclusion: Kittens under control – no stress, no cost
Using simple tools you already have at home, you can quickly and effectively extend the life of your favorite winter pieces. A razor, a heel stone, or even a sponge – each of these tools can be your silent fashion ally in the fight against annoying kittens. And the best part: your clothes will look neat, fresh, and completely wearable again – without feeling like you’re walking around in a textile version of a sphinx.
