If you notice that your fabrics are starting to pilling, a clothes shaver (or anti-pilling razor) may be a good option for you. Using one is a technique that can help extend the life of your fabrics and make them look like new. Once you've located any lint and taken all the necessary steps to prevent it developing, the simplest next step for certain types of fabric is to use a clothes shaver. These handy devices offer an easy and affordable way to protect your jumpers and upholstery from bobbling.
But what is this accessory? How does it work, and how do you use it? Here's what you need to know before buying an anti-pilling razor.
What is this device?
The clothes shaver is designed to remove lint quickly and permanently from certain types of fabric. There are two types of tools for getting rid of lint: one is a shaver that runs on batteries or a rechargeable battery, the other is a cleaning brush.
Electric shavers consist of a stainless steel shaving head and a motor that rotates the blades. The efficiency of the models will generally depend on the speed of rotation of the blades (or revolutions per minute), but also their autonomy. It’s important to note that anti-pilling razors come with a drip tray.
The second tool is the manual version of the anti-pilling shaver, i.e., its equivalent in the form of a cleaning brush. Effective for removing pet hair, hair and other dust, the brush will not be as effective against fabric fluff as an electric anti-pilling shaver.
Why use this type of razor?
Obviously, the usefulness of an accessory like a clothes shaver depends on your wardrobe. If you only wear a shirt and jacket, or you’re an active person that mainly wears sports clothes probably won't need it. It's a tool that cares for items like jumpers and household linen. To find out if you need one, look to see if there are little fluffy bits on your fabrics.
Of course, you can remove pilling by hand, but it takes time and it’s hard to resist the temptation to use scissors and risk ending up with a hole! Instead, use a clothes shaver, like the one from SteamOne, which is a more effective, quicker and, above all, safer way to bring your favourite clothes back to life.
Why do some fabrics lint?
It's important to understand that some fabrics lint more than others. These balls of textile fluff are common on synthetic fabrics such as acrylic, nylon and polyester. Cotton, linen and wool can also lint, but their bobbles usually disappear with washing.
It's good to be aware that the weave of a textile can also influence its ability to fluff: tightly woven jeans fluff very little, whereas loosely woven fabrics do so much more. Knits and knitted fabrics also lint more easily.
Finally, the presence of small bobbles of fluff can also be explained by the repeated washing of your clothes. As you can see, you can't avoid washing your clothes, so you can't avoid fluff. That's why you need an anti-pilling razor.
Advice before buying an anti-pilling shaver for your clothes
Are you convinced that you need an anti-pilling razor? Before you start looking for the best anti-pilling shavers, here's our advice on buying this accessory.
If you want to save money on batteries, it may be tempting to buy a hair removal brush. However, you should be aware that the stones in these tools tend to disintegrate with use. So you'll probably have some residue to vacuum up when you're finished, which can be annoying. What's more, hair removal brushes require a little extra cleaning to maintain their ongoing effectiveness.
If you decide to opt for a powered clothes shaver, but stocking up on AA batteries isn't your cup of tea, you should know that some electric shavers, such as the SteamOne anti-pilling shaver, are equipped with a battery that can be recharged by USB cable. Not only is this practical, it's also more environmentally-friendly than using disposable batteries.
We’d also recommend that you opt for models that allow you to adjust the cutting height. This lets you fine-tune the cut for delicate fabrics, such as fine-knit jumpers. You'll also find this feature with the SteamOne clothes shaver, for example.
How do I use a fabric shaver?
To help you get to grips with your shaver, here are a few tips on how to use it.
To get started, simply run the razor's rotating blades over the surface of the clothes, using short strokes if necessary. The grid lifts and cuts or breaks loose fibres, leaving your clothes smooth and lint-free.
Whichever model of electric fabric shaver you use, you must use it with care to avoid damaging the fabric. For the best results with a motorised clothes shaver, hold the fabric taut when shaving. In addition, you don't need to press too hard: several light strokes are usually enough.
Brush-type options, such as jumper combs and stones, are equally compact and don't require batteries. They pull the fabric pellets and collect them on a metal comb or pumice-like stone that needs to be cleaned after use. The main problem is that the brush requires several goes to completely remove the beads, all the while taking care not to stretch or distort the fabric each time you pass the brush over it.
Conclusion
An anti-pilling shaver is the perfect tool for your autumn clothes, with their varied, thick fabrics. It's easy to use, gentle on your clothes, takes up very little space and is highly effective. What's more, it's very affordable. So don't hold out any longer: get yourself an anti-pilling shaver today!
