How to Delint a Sweater

By: Kimbry Parker

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A lint-filled sweater can transform your outfit from chic to sloppy. Lint is the result of broken or short fibers that’s caused when the fabric is rubbed together against other fabrics, or against itself through normal wear. Picking off each lint ball one by one will delint your sweater, but you’d spend quite a bit of time doing it. Pursue a more efficient option to delint your sweater to get it back in circulation in your wardrobe.

Step 1

Lay the sweater on a flat surface, such as a table, counter or ironing board. Spread it out so the fabric is taut.

Step 2

Move a clean, sharp disposable razor over the sweater, turning the sweater on its side and back to treat all of the linted area. Apply light pressure and move the razor slowly to avoid cutting the fabric. Wipe the blade with a rag after each pass to remove the collected lint. Continue doing this until the entire sweater has been delinted.

Step 3

Use a sweater stone or electric pill shaver if any lint remains. Run the shaver or stone slowly over the sweater to lift the lint. Pick up any loosened piles of lint from the sweater with your fingers.