One of the few pitfalls of flannel bedding is how commonly pilling of flannel sheets occurs. Pilling occurs when small pieces of the wool that is used to make flannel becomes balled up on the surface of the sheet, and can be seen on almost every garment or linen that is made of wool. Choosing better sheets, and adopting good practices in flannel sheet care are two of the best ways to stave off this phenomenon and keep your sheets looking new and feeling soft.
The first step in avoiding pilling is simply buying the right kinds of sheets. High quality flannel is less likely to pill. In order to tell the quality of the sheet that you are consider, feel its weight. Good flannel will feel thick and soft between your fingers. When rubbed, it should not shed too much and it should be almost opaque when held up to the light. Those whose sheets meet these criteria will find that they last longer, and they get far more use out of them before they must be retired.
Even if you have high quality bedding, it is still important that they be properly cared for. Using a mild detergent can help eliminate the wear to which the fabric is subject, with can lead to pilling. Avoid any detergents that contain bleach and only wash your sheets as often as you must. Washing too frequently, even with an organic detergent, can cause fading and pilling and will make your sheets look old prematurely.
If possible, try to avoid placing your flannel items in the dryer. Again, dryers can cause shrinking as well as pilling. Line drying these delicate items is the best way to preserve them for future use.
Good flannel care is the best way to lessen the pilling of flannel sheets. If you do notice some pilling, a lint remover can help you rid your sheets of these unattractive pieces of wool.
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