My name is Hiroki and I continue to study wool.
As I've written many blogs about wool and merino wool, I've suddenly realized that I've only written about good things... It's common knowledge that everyone and everything in the world has good and bad sides.
This time, we will summarize the "pilling problem," which is considered the biggest disadvantage of using wool, including merino wool. Please refer to this article if you want to keep your merino wool socks looking good and lasting longer.
【table of contents】
- The appeal and problems of merino wool socks
- Why do hairballs form? The reason and mechanism
- Easy ways to deal with hairballs at home
- Tips to prevent hairballs and keep your pet looking nice
- How to store your merino wool socks to preserve them
1. The appeal and problems of merino wool socks
Merino wool socks are great for cold seasons and outdoor activities. The warmth , moisture absorption , and soft feel that only natural materials can provide will make you want to wear them again and again. However, after wearing them many times, you may start to notice pilling . It's sad to see your fluffy socks slowly start to look worn out.
2. Why do hairballs form? The reason and mechanism
Merino wool fibers are very fine and soft, so when friction occurs during wear or washing, the fibers can get tangled and pill easily . Pilling is particularly likely to occur around the ankles and heels, which are areas that move and rub a lot. However, this is by no means a fault with the socks, but is a characteristic of the natural material. (It is an unavoidable fact when using wool socks.)
3. Easy ways to deal with hairballs at home
But don't worry. Even if pilling does occur, you should be able to restore your item to its original, beautiful condition with some simple care. (Please note that there are limitations.)
・Use scissors or a lint remover
If the pilling is noticeable, carefully cut it off with scissors or use a pilling remover. To use a pilling remover, just gently stroke the surface of the socks. The key is not to use too much pressure.
I found a YouTube video that shows how to remove hairballs with scissors, so please take a look.
I also found an article introducing a popular lint remover, so I've attached that as well!
[Comprehensive Comparison] Recommended Popular Lint Removers
・Finish with tape or sponge
If the lint is small, it can be easily removed by gently rubbing it with sticky tape or an old sponge (the back of the sponge (non-woven abrasive material) or the hard side used to remove burnt food from a pot).
*It is said that 3M's Scotch Brite is effective at removing mold.
4. Tips to prevent hairballs to keep your cat looking nice
In addition to taking care of hairballs, it will be even more reassuring if you regularly practice measures known as "ways to prevent hairballs."
- Wash inside out
To reduce friction, try turning your socks inside out before washing . You can also use a laundry net to further reduce damage. It's best to put each pair into the net individually if possible.
・Use neutral detergent and fabric softener
Using a neutral detergent for wool will prevent damage to the fibers. Also, using an appropriate amount of fabric softener together will reduce static electricity and reduce tangling of the fibers. However, using too much will reduce the moisture absorption properties of wool, so be sure to use the appropriate amount.
Hand washing is recommended
Hand washing is the best way to wash it (warm water + wool detergent). However, hand washing is difficult, so if you want to use a washing machine , be sure to select the "hand wash" or "dry" mode .
・Allow natural drying
The heat of tumble drying (a method of drying laundry by rotating it with warm air in a drum-type washer-dryer) can damage the fibers and cause pilling. It is best to dry naturally in the shade or on a flat surface as much as possible.
5. Conclusion
To extend the lifespan of socks, you should also pay attention to how you store them. After use, dry them thoroughly and store them in a place with low humidity. Also, when using insect repellent, it is best to store them in a bag so that they do not come into direct contact with the insects.
Above, we have introduced how to remove pilling from merino wool socks.
Merino wool socks are loved by many people for their comfort and functionality, but the only problem is that they are prone to pilling. However, by taking the right care and preventative measures, you can enjoy the unique fluffiness of merino wool for a long time. Please try the methods introduced here to extend the life of your expensive merino wool socks.
At OLENO, we also carry a variety of wool and merino wool socks for the outdoors, carefully selected by our wool-loving president (with 30 years of experience as a wool enthusiast), so be sure to take a look.
