As you wear and wash your clothes, small fibers from the fabric’s outer layers tend to detach, forming lint that clings back onto the garment. While there are preventive measures like emptying pockets before washing or using dryer sheets, there comes a point when you need to tackle lint that has already accumulated.
No need to worry, though! Removing lint is a straightforward process, and this guide will help you navigate through various methods. Check it out!
1. Lint-Roller
Let’s start with a simple solution – the lint roller, readily available in most supermarkets’ laundry sections, as well as textile and pet stores. Unwrap the roller section and roll it across the fabric you want to clean. You’ll notice the lint sticking to the roller.
As it becomes less adhesive, peel off a layer to reveal a fresh, sticky sheet underneath. Continue rolling to effectively remove lint from your clothes.
#2 Lint Brush
If a lint roller is not available, consider using a lint brush as an alternative. Resembling a hairbrush in shape, these brushes have a pad instead of bristles to catch lint.
Similar to the soft side of velcro, you need to brush the pad against the fabric to collect lint and remove it. The key is to brush the entire garment in one direction, starting from the top and moving towards the bottom hem.
#3 Dryer Sheets
Utilize dryer sheets, which are designed to combat static and prevent lint buildup. Take a dryer sheet and use it to wipe away lint in a single direction. You’ll notice the lint gathering, and you can then manually remove the accumulated lint.
#4 Wide Packaging Tape
Cut strips of wide packaging tape and place them on the garment, then peel them back to lift off the lint. Alternatively, wrap tape around your palm with the adhesive side facing out and press your palm against the fabric, lifting to achieve the same results as a lint roller.
For added convenience, you can wrap a rolling pin with tape, sticky side out, and roll it across the fabric to quickly remove lint from a larger area.
#5 Rubber Glove
A dishwashing glove made of rubber serves as an excellent alternative for lint removal. Simply wear the glove and gently rub your hand across the fabric in one direction.
This method effectively gathers lint and pushes it off the fabric as you continue rubbing. An added perk is that this trick works well for removing animal fur too.
#6 Shaving Razor
Surprisingly, a regular shaving razor is a brilliant tool for removing lint and pilling from fabric. Using a clean, dry razor, place it on the fabric and slide it downwards to “shave” off the top layer.
Shake the razor periodically to let the lint fall off, and continue shaving until all the lint is gone. Note: Be cautious not to apply too much pressure or hold the razor at an awkward angle, as this may damage the fabric.
#7 Damp Sponge/Scouring Pad
The abrasive nature of a wet sponge or scouring pad is effective for lint removal. After dampening the sponge or pad, squeeze out excess water and gently rub it against the garment. Utilize the rough side for better lint and loose fiber removal, working on small sections of the cloth at a time.
#8 Nylon Sock/Pantyhose
For a quick fix, a nylon sock or pantyhose can be used. Simply put your hand into the sock or pantyhose and use it like the rubber glove to rub away lint. The nylon material is effective in catching lint.
The accumulation of lint can impact the appearance of your outfit, but with the methods mentioned above, you can effectively remove lint from clothing regardless of the amount of fiber involved. However, prevention is easier than removal. Regularly clean your washer filters and dryer traps, and consider using white vinegar in your washes or dryer sheets in the dryer cycle to minimize static, preventing lint from sticking to your clothes.
