Small balls of fibre, often called pills, can appear on cashmere after repeated wear. They are usually found in areas that experience friction, such as under a coat, near a bag strap or around the edge of a scarf.
Pilling does not automatically mean that a cashmere product is defective or unsuitable. It is a natural surface change that can be managed with gentle care.
What causes pilling?
Pilling happens when loose fibres rise to the surface and become twisted together through friction.
The first few wears may release shorter fibres left from the spinning and finishing process. Continued rubbing can gather these fibres into small soft balls.
The amount of pilling depends on the yarn, the fabric construction, the way a piece is worn and the amount of contact it receives during the day.
Common sources of friction
A cashmere scarf may rub against:
- A wool or textured coat
- A shoulder bag
- A seat belt
- Rough jewellery
- Velcro or sharp accessories
- Other heavily textured fabrics
This does not mean that you must avoid wearing cashmere with outerwear. It simply helps to notice which combinations create the most contact.
How to remove small pills safely
The safest approach is patience and a gentle tool.
Lay the scarf flat on a clean surface. Use a cashmere comb or a fabric comb with light, controlled movements. Work in one direction and avoid pressing heavily into the fabric.
Do not pull individual pills aggressively. Pulling can loosen the surrounding yarn and create a larger uneven area.
A small pair of fabric scissors may be used carefully for an isolated pill, but never cut across the surface of the scarf.
What to avoid
Avoid shaving the surface with a disposable razor. A razor can remove more fibre than intended and may damage the yarn.
Do not use adhesive rollers directly on delicate cashmere. Strong adhesive can catch fibres and affect the surface.
Avoid brushing the scarf roughly or rubbing the same area repeatedly. Cashmere responds best to gentle handling.
Reduce pilling through everyday habits
A few simple habits can reduce friction:
- Let perfume and skincare dry before wearing the scarf.
- Check that coat fasteners are smooth.
- Avoid carrying a rough bag strap directly over the same area.
- Give the scarf time to rest between wears.
- Fold it loosely instead of compressing it under heavy clothing.
These habits do not stop every pill from appearing, but they help protect the surface.
Pilling and the life of a natural fibre
Cashmere is a natural material. Its surface may change slightly as it becomes part of your wardrobe.
With regular gentle combing and careful storage, a DOMOG scarf can remain soft, comfortable and visually refined. The goal is not to keep the fabric completely untouched. The goal is to care for it in a way that respects the fibre.
Wear it naturally
A cashmere scarf is made to be worn. Small changes in the surface are part of its use, especially when it becomes a favourite layer for travel, work and everyday movement.
Careful handling allows the material to develop with time while keeping its softness and character.