So, you just purchased a new set of bamboo sheets and noticed a few little balls on the fabric (Pilling) after the first few washes. Pilling is common with all types of fabric including bamboo and causes bedding to wear prematurely.
Don’t worry though, there are some tips & tricks you can use to prevent pilling on bamboo sheets.
In this article, you’ll learn about pilling on bamboo sheets, why it happens, and what you can do to prevent it.
9 Tips to Stop Bamboo Sheets From Pilling
Almost all bed sheets are prone to pilling, including bamboo sheets. Following proper washing instructions and reducing friction will help reduce pilling in your bamboo sheets.
Here are nine additional tips to help prevent your bamboo sheets from pilling:
1- Only Wash Bamboo in Cold Water:
The first tip to reduce pilling in your bamboo sheets is to wash them in cold water. We know, getting into a cold bed sounds awful, but it will also help prevent pilling. Pilling occurs when fabrics rub together so the less friction the better. Washing your sheet set in cold water will reduce the amount of pilling.
2- Dry Bamboo on Low Heat:
The next tip to stop pilling in your bamboo sheets is to dry them on low heat. Piling occurs when fabric rubs or scrapes against another fabric causing pieces of the sheet to ball up. Drying your sheets on low heat will reduce the amount the fabric rubs together.
3- Use Gentle Detergent on Bamboo:
Another tip to help prevent pilling in your sheets is to use a gentle detergent. Using a gentle detergent will reduce the amount of friction between the sheets as they are being washed.
Avoid detergents that have any of the following in their ingredients:
- Bleach
- Dyes and Perfumes
- Phthalates
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)
- Petroleum Distillates
- Formaldehyde
4- Wash Bamboo Sheets Separately:
Be sure to wash your bamboo sheets separately from other items such as towels, jeans, or items with zippers, buttons, or other metal objects. And if you must wash with other items in the load, make sure they don’t have any zippers or buttons that may catch on the sheets. Try putting your delicate sheets in a laundry bag to protect them during the wash cycle.
5- Wash Your Sheets Less Often:
Another tip to help prevent pilling in your sheets is to wash them less often. The chances your sheets will pill increase with the number of times you wash them. Thus, washing your sheets less often will help reduce pilling.
You should try to keep your bamboo sheets clean for longer and reduce the number of times you need to wash them. I have put together a complete guide with simple tips to keep in mind before jumping into bed next time.
6- Buy the Correct Sheets Size:
Mattresses come in different shapes and sizes and using the wrong sheet size will cause them to stretch and develop pilling earlier. Sheet sets that fit too tightly will wear and are prone to pilling more than those that fit properly. To reduce pilling in, make sure you purchase a sheet set with the correct size so they don’t stretch and become too tight.
7- Avoid Direct Sunlight:
Keep your bamboo sheets away from direct sunlight. Prolonged exposure to UV light can damage the fabric and weaken it over time. This will make the bamboo fabric stiffer and less elastic and increase the chances of pilling.
8- Reduce Friction During Washing:
Consider putting your bamboo sheets inside of a pillowcase when washing and use the “delicate” setting on your washing machine. This will reduce friction between the sheets, minimizing the chances of pilling.
9- Avoid the Dryer if Possible:
Last but not least, don’t put your bamboo sheets in the dryer! Dryers cause the fabric to shrink and pill much more quickly than normal. Hang-drying your sheets will help reduce pilling and make them last longer by prolonging the time between washings.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Now that you have gone over some tips to help stop pilling in your sheets, you may be wondering if there is anything else you should know.
Below is a list of the most common questions customers ask us at Bamboo-Comfort about how to prevent pilling in their bamboo sheets:
What Is Pilling?
Have you ever worn a sweater or another type of knit item and noticed those little balls of fabric all over the surface? That’s pilling.
Pilling is a lot like those little knots that pop up in sweaters. It is the result of loose fibers that work their way out of the knit fabric to create those little balls. Pilling usually occurs after washing, but can happen over time due to abrasion.
Why Do Bamboo Sheets Pill?
The most common reason bamboo sheets pill is washing them in water that is too hot. Other reasons that can cause bamboo sheets to pill include; using harsh detergents, drying them in direct sunlight, or excess friction from a washing machine.
Do All Bamboo Sheets Pill?
All bamboo sheets will eventually start to pill at some point. This includes both bamboo rayon, as well as bamboo viscose sheets. Some bamboo blend sheets are more resistant to pilling, such as bamboo-microfiber blends. However, bamboo blend sheets aren’t as soft or breathable as pure bamboo sheets.
How Do I Get Rid Of Pills On Bamboo Sheets?
You can use a fabric shaver to remove pilling from all types of sheets, including bamboo. Catching pilling before it gets out of hand is key to keeping it under control.
You can also use a clothing razor to remove pilling, although this will take more time and be slightly less effective.
Conclusion
Pilling in bamboo sheets is common but can be prevented. Washing your sheets in cold water, using gentle detergents, and reducing friction will help reduce pilling. Furthermore, line drying your sheets will reduce pilling and is a great choice for preserving the fabric’s softness and quality over time.
If you do notice that your bamboo sheets are starting to pill then take the steps listed above to help keep pilling under control and extend their life. Follow these simple tips and you will significantly increase the lifespan of your sheets, making them last for years to come.
