How do I best remove lint from shirts?

The most effective method is a lint roller. Alternatively, set your tumble dryer to cool and run the shirt for 5–10 minutes – the lint collects in the trap. Sticky tape also works in a pinch when you're on the go.

Should I turn shirts inside out before washing?

Yes, this is a simple but very effective trick. Turning shirts inside out protects the outer surface from abrasion and lint. Additionally, the collar and cuffs should be folded inward.

Can the tumble dryer remove lint from shirts?

Yes! Set the dryer to cool or air only and run the shirt for 5–10 minutes. The lint is collected in the lint trap. Always check the care label first to make sure the shirt is dryer-safe.

Remove Lint & Fluff ✓ 7 Tips That Really Work

Q: What is the difference between lint and pilling?

Lint consists of loose fibres that come off other garments and land on your shirt. Pilling (bobbling) is caused by friction on the fabric itself. A fabric shaver helps against pilling, while a lint roller works best against lint.

Q: Does a laundry bag help against lint on shirts?

A laundry bag is actually counterproductive when it comes to lint. While it protects the fabric, it prevents lint from being rinsed away. It's better to wash shirts separately or only with smooth fabrics.

Lint and fluff on shirts are a common annoyance. But don't worry: With the right tips you can remove lint and prevent it in the future. Here you'll learn how to keep your shirts lint-free for good.

1. Prevent Lint When Washing

The most important step against lint starts right in the washing machine. Keep these points in mind:

High water level: Use programmes with plenty of water – this reduces friction between fabrics
Wash similar fabrics together: Only wash shirts with other smooth fabrics
Avoid lint-producing fabrics: Wash knitwear, underwear and socks separately
Sort by colour: White shirts only with whites, dark shirts only with darks

⚠️ Important: Flannel shirts made from long-fibre fabrics should never be washed together with business shirts – they are the most common cause of lint!

2. Turn Shirts Inside Out Before Washing

A simple but effective trick: Turn your shirts inside out before washing. This protects the outer surface from abrasion and significantly extends the garment's lifespan.

💡 Extra Tip

Also fold the collar and cuffs inward. This protects these delicate edges from friction inside the drum.

3. Laundry Bag Against Lint – Useful or Not?

Surprisingly: A laundry bag is actually counterproductive when it comes to lint! While the bag protects the fabric, it prevents lint from being rinsed away. The lint and fibre residue may actually stay on your shirt.

✓ Laundry bag useful for:

Delicate lace
Bras and lingerie
Fine knitwear

✗ Not useful for:

Business shirts
Lint-producing clothing
Heavily soiled laundry

4. Use the Tumble Dryer to Remove Lint

The tumble dryer can be your best friend in the fight against lint – if you use it correctly:

How the dryer trick works:

Place the shirt in the dryer
Set the programme to "cool" or "air only"
Run for 5–10 minutes
Lint is collected in the lint trap

📌 Please note: Always check the care label first! Not every shirt is suitable for the dryer. Unsuitable fabrics may shrink by 1–2 sizes.

5. Watch Out for Lint When Ironing

Lint can also appear during ironing – caused by a dirty ironing board cover.

Check the ironing board cover for lint before every ironing session
When in doubt: use a new ironing board cover
Clean the iron's soleplate regularly

More tips on perfect ironing?
→ How to iron a shirt properly

6. Store Shirts Properly – Avoid Lint

Proper storage is key to keeping your shirts lint-free:

Best Method

Reserve a separate shelf or wardrobe section exclusively for your shirts. This keeps them away from lint-producing garments such as knitwear or fleece.

For Dark Shirts

Dark or black shirts are particularly prone to visible lint. Store them in a garment bag with zip and only turn them right-side out shortly before wearing.

7. Removing Lint: The Best Methods

If despite all precautions lint ends up on your shirt, these tried-and-tested methods will help:

Method	Effectiveness	Suitable for
Lint roller	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	All fabrics, quick application
Tumble dryer (cool)	⭐⭐⭐⭐	Dryer-safe shirts
Damp cloth	⭐⭐⭐	Delicate fabrics
Sticky tape	⭐⭐⭐	On the go, in an emergency
Fabric shaver	⭐⭐⭐⭐	Stubborn bobbles (pilling)

Tired of Lint?

Non-iron shirts by Marvelis are particularly easy to care for and less prone to lint.

Discover Non-Iron Shirts →

Frequently Asked Questions About Lint and Fluff

Shirts made from long-fibre fabrics (such as flannel) or with a high cotton content are more prone to lint. Synthetic fibres and non-iron shirts are less susceptible.

Lint cannot be completely prevented. However, with the right washing routine, separate storage and regular care, you can reduce the problem to a minimum.

Lint consists of loose fibres that come off other garments and land on your shirt. Pilling (bobbling) is caused by friction on the fabric itself. A fabric shaver helps against pilling, while a lint roller works best against lint.

✓ Summary: 7 Tips Against Lint

Wash shirts separately or only with smooth fabrics
Turn inside out before washing
Don't use a laundry bag for shirts
Use the tumble dryer on cool to remove lint
Use a clean ironing board cover
Store shirts separately from knitwear
Keep a lint roller handy for quick fixes