How to Get Rid of Bobble on Bed Sheets

We’ve all been there at one time or another. Having treated yourself to a lovely new set of bed sheets—soft, smooth, stylish—only to find that just a few short weeks later, they’re looking a bit worse for wear and covered in those annoying little bobbles. You know, those tiny bobbles that appear out of nowhere and ruin the whole feel-good factor of your new bedding set.  

Bobbles on bedsheets can make things uncomfortable at bedtime. They also look slightly unsightly, especially if you’re a fan of minimalist design. So, what’s the solution? 

Well, you’re in luck. We have some great solutions to help you banish the bobbles and reclaim your new bedding bliss. And, we’ve even come up with some bobble-prevention tips too. Scroll on to unveil all 

What are bobbles? 

First of all, let’s try to understand what bobbles are and what causes them. Bobbles (or pilling, if we’re using the correct terminology) happen when fibres on the fabric’s surface get tangled up and form tiny balls. The main culprit of bobbling is usually friction. This means that every toss, turn, and duvet wrestle during the night is just adding to the problem.  

And the washing machine isn’t doing you any favours either! But as conscientious bed hygienists, not washing your bedding isn’t the answer either. In fact, most of us aren’t washing our bedding nearly enough as it is. That’s a separate issue you can read all about here.  

For now, let’s go back to the bobbles on bedsheets. The good news? It’s not you, it’s the sheets. 

The quick and easy fixes for bobbling on bedsheets 

Want to banish your bed sheet bobbles without having to buy a new set every time that you spot them start to appear? Stick with us. Let’s get rid of them. Here are the tried and tested sure-fire methods to get rid of bobbling on fabric: 

1. Grab a fabric shaver. Inexpensive but handy for bobbles on everything from bedsheets to your favourite sweater, a fabric shaver is about to become your new best friend. It’s actually just like the razor you might use on your face or legs, but for your bedding instead. Run it gently over the bobbly bits on your duvet cover, and voilà—smooth sheets in minutes. You can pick one up for under £15 online or you’ll find them in some DIY stores on the highstreets too. 

2. Use a razor (carefully!). Fancy saving that £15 or so for something a little more essential? With a bit of know-how, a basic disposable razor essentially does the same thing. Lay your sheets flat, hold them taut, and gently shave off the bobbles. Remember to be light-handed though—you don’t want to end up with unintentional air holes in those bed sheets. 

3. Sticky tape hack. At Bensons, we’re big fans of good hacks that actually work. If the bobbles on your sheets are restricted to smaller patches, try wrapping some sticky tape around your hand (sticky side out) and dab them away. It’s oddly satisfying, and it does work. Though using this method for an entire bedding set will take time. And a lot of tape! 

4. Velcro curlers. If you’ve got some of those old-school Velcro hair rollers lying around, you’ll appreciate this hack! Roll them over the bedsheets, and they’ll pick up those pesky bobbles like a charm. Great to find out something has a second use, isn’t it!? 

Stopping bobbles before they start to appear  

Prevention is always better than the cure. Here’s how to keep your bedsheets in top-notch condition and prevent them from bobbling before they start: 

• Pick the right material: Natural fibres like cotton (especially Egyptian cotton) tend to bobble less than synthetic blends. Treat yourself to some slightly pricier sheets and you’ll have less issues with bobbling later on (1). 

• Wash with intent: Turn your bedsheets inside out, use a gentle wash cycle, and avoid overloading the washing machine. In short, less friction = fewer bobbles. 

• Avoid high heat: Drying bedsheets on high heat can break down fibres faster (2). Opt for a cool or low setting—or better yet, air dry if you can. 

When to let go of bobbly bedsheets 

Sometimes, no amount of shaving or TLC can save a bobbled bed sheet. If yours are seemingly beyond repair, consider upcycling them into cleaning cloths or donating them to animal shelters (they are always need of bedding). Then treat yourself to a fresh set and start again. Only this time, you’ll be armed with all the anti-bobble insight you need to make sure they live on looking their best. 

Bobbles on bedsheets: final thoughts 

Bobbles don’t stand a chance against you now. Whether you’re shaving them away or washing smarter, your bed will be back to being the cosy escape in no time. And let’s be honest, there’s nothing better than climbing into a smooth, bobble-free bed at the end of a hard day. 

Sources: 

1. https://www.lenor.co.uk/en-gb/fabric-conditioner-tips/washing-different-fabrics/how-to-keep-your-jumpers-and-other-fabrics-from-bobbling 

2. https://www.modernistic.com/mod-blog/should-you-always-dry-your-clothes-on-high/