How to Care for Ribbed Leggings to Prevent Pilling

Quick answer

To prevent pilling on ribbed leggings, wash them inside out in cold water on a gentle cycle, skip fabric softener, and air dry flat. This reduces friction and keeps the organic cotton fibers smooth.

Step-by-step care routine

1. Turn leggings inside out: Before washing, turn the leggings inside out. This protects the outer ribbed surface from rubbing against other clothes in the machine. Always zip or button any other items in the load to avoid snagging.
2. Wash in cold water on a gentle cycle: Use cold water (below 30°C) and select a delicate or gentle cycle. Hot water and aggressive spinning weaken fibers and cause fuzz. If your machine has a low spin option, use it to reduce friction.
3. Skip fabric softener and bleach: Fabric softener coats fibers and can make them break more easily. Bleach is harsh and damages organic cotton. Use a mild detergent instead. Check the care label for any specific detergent recommendations.
4. Air dry flat: Lay the leggings flat on a towel to dry, away from direct heat. Tumble drying causes intense friction and is a major cause of pilling. Never wring or twist the leggings to remove water—press gently with a towel.
5. Store folded, not hung: Fold the leggings and place them in a drawer. Hanging can stretch the elastic waistband and create friction points. Keep them away from rough surfaces or Velcro that could catch the knit.

Products that benefit from this care

• Jersey Rib Leggings Jules - gravel melange: The Jersey Rib Leggings Jules are made from soft organic cotton jersey with stretch and a close fit. The stretchy knit moves with your child, but it needs gentle washing to keep the fabric smooth and pill-free.

  

• Secondhand Rib Leggings - rose dawn / 98/3y: The Secondhand Rib Leggings have a ribbed texture and a slim fit, made from a soft organic cotton blend. Ribbed texture is more prone to friction, so following these care steps helps preserve the fabric's look and feel.