How do I wash flannel and brushed cotton pajamas without pilling?

Main answer

Wash flannel and brushed cotton pajamas inside out on a gentle cycle in cool or warm water with a mild detergent, and dry them on low heat or flat. The brushed surface is made of raised fibre ends that tangle into pills with friction, and the fabric tends to shrink in the first washes, so gentle care limits both.

Why flannel pills and shrinks

Flannel is a soft fabric whose surface is brushed to raise short fibres, which gives warmth and handfeel. Those loose fibre ends tangle easily when rubbed. Cotton also relaxes and shrinks when it is first washed and dried, especially if it was not relaxed or pre-shrunk before cutting. Garment shrinkage is measured with methods such as AATCC TM150 and depends on the washing and drying used.

Washing steps

Turn the pajamas inside out and wash them with similar soft items, not with jeans, towels or items with zips. Use cool or warm water and a gentle or normal cycle with a mild detergent. Do not overload the drum. Check the label for temperature, and avoid chlorine bleach on printed or coloured flannel, which can fade or weaken it.

Drying and finishing

Tumble dry on low and remove while slightly damp, or hang flat to dry. Hot drying is the main cause of extra shrinkage and a rougher surface. Shake the garments before drying to separate them, and clean the lint filter, since flannel produces a lot of lint. Fold pyjamas instead of hanging them, so that the shoulders keep their shape.

Labels and sleepwear rules

The FTC Care Labeling Rule requires apparel to carry care instructions, so follow them. For children’s sleepwear, additional flammability rules apply, and some products must be snug fitting or flame resistant. Washing instructions may then matter for safety, so check the label and the maker’s guidance. See pyjama manufacturing guide and how to slow pilling.