Fabrics

Pilling, fabric by fabric: wool, cashmere, fleece and upholstery

Every fiber pills for its own reasons. Knowing which one is in front of you tells you how gently to go.

Wool and wool blends

Wool pills where it rubs: under the arms, at the sides, where a bag strap sits. The pills are firm and come off cleanly. Use the compact for a sweater and the large head for a coat, with normal light circles.

Cashmere and fine knits

Short, soft fibers pill early and then settle. Raise the height cover fully, use the lightest touch, and stop as soon as the surface looks even. Less is the right amount here.

Fleece, hoodies and leggings

Synthetic pills hold on tightly because the fiber is strong. Expect to pass twice. The large head makes short work of a hoodie back; the compact reaches inside a kangaroo pocket.

Acrylic and mixed yarns

Blends pill the most, since the strong fiber anchors the weak one. Work a section at a time and empty the container often.

Couches, cushions and throws

Upholstery collects lint as well as pills. Go in overlapping lanes with the large head, keep clear of piping and zips, and vacuum afterwards to lift what the shaver loosened.