9 Effective Methods to Remove Lint from Clothing (Without a Lint Brush)

Lint is one of the most annoying laundry problems. Dealing with it constantly can be frustrating, especially when you don’t have a lint brush or roller handy. If you’re fed up with plucking lint off your go-to sweater or struggling with static and lint on your garments and linens, it’s time to take action.

Laundry professionals share straightforward tips to help you eliminate lint from your clothes and bid farewell to annoying fuzz. Discover their top strategies for lint removal when a lint brush or roller isn’t available.

Fabric Shaver

A fabric shaver is a handy electronic tool that effectively removes lint, pilling, and fuzz from various fabrics such as cotton, wool, and polyester. However, some delicate materials may not be suitable for this device, so always test it on a small, inconspicuous area first to avoid damage. 

“For tougher lint or pilling issues, a fabric shaver works wonders,” explains Tom Ceconi, CEO of Heritage Park Laundry. “Gently move it in circular motions across the fabric. Always test on a small section beforehand, especially with delicate materials, to prevent any potential harm.”

Razor

An inexpensive razor (the kind used for shaving!) can also tackle lint or stubborn pilling. Carefully glide the blade over the fabric. Like with a fabric shaver, avoid excessive pressure to prevent damaging the material, and never use it on delicate fabrics.

Duct Tape

In a pinch, duct tape or wide packaging tape can be a lifesaver. Wrap the tape around your hand with the sticky side facing out, then gently press it onto lint-covered areas to lift the lint away. 

“It might seem unusual, but gently patting your clothes with a strip of duct tape can effectively remove lint and fuzz,” suggests Logan Taylor, an interior designer and cleaning expert at Dazzle Cleaning Company in Seattle. “Just ensure you use a fresh strip each time to avoid transferring lint back onto the fabric.”

White Vinegar

“Adding half a cup of distilled white vinegar to the rinse cycle during laundry can work wonders,” says Ceconi. “The vinegar serves as a natural fabric softener, helping to loosen lint from the fabric. This method is especially beneficial for lint-prone items like towels.”

To take advantage of white vinegar’s ability to combat lint, pour it into the fabric softener compartment of your washing machine during the rinse cycle. This method is particularly effective for minimizing lint and static in items like towels and sweaters. 

Hang Drying

A natural way to prevent lint on clothing is to hang dry them. Another option is to partially dry clothes in the dryer and then allow them to finish drying in the air.

“Whenever feasible, hang drying clothes can reduce static, which tends to attract lint,” Ceconi explains. “If using a dryer, take out the clothes while they’re still slightly damp and let them air dry completely to reduce friction that causes lint.”

Moist Sponge

A simple DIY method for lint removal involves using a damp sponge. Lightly wet the sponge, squeeze out excess water, and gently wipe it over lint-covered areas. The moisture helps lift the lint from the fabric.

“A clean, slightly damp sponge can be gently rubbed over the fabric to remove lint,” advises Sam Yousif, owner of St George’s Laundry. “Use the soft side of the sponge, not the abrasive side, particularly for delicate materials. Wipe in one direction for optimal results and avoid soaking the fabric.”

Anti-Static Spray

Static electricity often causes fabric fibers to stick together, leading to lint and pilling. Using an anti-static spray can help mitigate this problem, keeping your clothes lint-free. 

“I always use anti-static spray on my clothes before wearing them,” Taylor shares. “It not only stops lint from clinging but also minimizes static cling. Just make sure to follow the product’s instructions and avoid over-spraying, as it can leave behind residue.”

Dryer Sheets

Dryer sheets are excellent for softening fabrics and eliminating lint. To remove lint, gently rub the fabric with a dryer sheet in one direction, similar to using a lint roller.

“A fresh dryer sheet can be rubbed over fabric to reduce static and remove lint,” Yousif explains. “It’s especially effective for delicate materials like polyester or synthetics that tend to attract lint.” Plus, dryer sheets leave a fresh scent and help prevent future static buildup.

Rubber Gloves

An alternative method for eliminating lint involves using moist rubber gloves on the fabric. This generates static electricity, effectively attracting and removing lint from garments.

“A unique and often overlooked approach to lint removal is utilizing rubber gloves,” Yousif explains. “Wear the gloves and gently rub them across the fabric. The resulting friction produces static, which helps lift lint from the material. Slightly dampening the gloves can enhance the effect. Employ small circular motions to collect lint into manageable clumps, making it easier to remove.”