Matted fleece is a common problem, whether you’re dealing with your favorite fleece jacket, a cozy blanket, or even a pet’s plush toy. That soft, inviting fabric can quickly become a tangled, unsightly mess if not properly cared for. But don’t despair! In most cases, you can revive matted fleece and restore its fluffy glory. This comprehensive guide will walk you through various techniques, preventative measures, and helpful tips to tackle matted fleece and keep it looking its best.
Understanding Why Fleece Mats
Before diving into the fix, it’s crucial to understand why fleece mats in the first place. This understanding will help you prevent future matting and choose the most appropriate restoration method.
The primary culprit behind matting is friction. Think about how fleece is made: it consists of synthetic fibers, usually polyester, that are knitted or woven together and then brushed to create a soft, pile-like surface. When this surface rubs against itself or other materials, the fibers can become entangled and compressed.
Other factors contributing to matting include:
- Washing and Drying: Harsh detergents, high heat, and aggressive agitation in the washing machine and dryer can damage the delicate fibers and contribute to matting.
- Lack of Care: Infrequent washing and neglecting to brush or comb the fleece allows tangles to accumulate and worsen over time.
- Dirt and Debris: Dirt, dust, and other particles can become trapped in the fleece, acting as an abrasive and promoting matting.
- Static Electricity: Static cling can cause fibers to attract each other and become entangled.
- Fiber Quality: Lower-quality fleece with shorter or weaker fibers is more prone to matting than higher-quality fleece.
Assessing the Damage
The first step in fixing matted fleece is to assess the severity of the matting. This will determine the best approach for restoration.
- Light Matting: This type of matting is characterized by slight clumping or flattening of the fleece fibers. It’s usually easy to fix with gentle brushing or washing.
- Medium Matting: Involves more significant tangles and compression. The fleece may feel stiff or rough to the touch. This may require more effort and specialized tools.
- Severe Matting: This is the most challenging type to fix. The fleece is heavily matted, with large, dense clumps that are difficult to separate. In some cases, severe matting may be irreversible.
Once you’ve assessed the damage, you can choose the appropriate method for fixing your matted fleece.
Methods for Fixing Matted Fleece
Several methods can be used to fix matted fleece, ranging from simple techniques to more involved processes. The best method will depend on the severity of the matting and the type of fleece.
Gentle Brushing and Combing
This is the simplest and often most effective method for dealing with light to medium matting. It involves using a soft-bristled brush or a wide-toothed comb to gently separate the tangled fibers.
- Tools: You’ll need a soft-bristled brush (like a pet brush or a baby hairbrush) or a wide-toothed comb. Avoid brushes with hard or sharp bristles, as they can damage the fleece fibers.
- Technique: Lay the fleece item on a flat surface. Starting at one end, gently brush or comb the matted areas in the direction of the fibers. Use short, gentle strokes to avoid pulling or tearing the fleece. Work your way through the entire matted area, carefully separating the tangled fibers. Be patient and avoid forcing the brush or comb through the mats, as this can damage the fleece.
For more stubborn mats, you can try using a fabric softener spray or a mixture of water and fabric softener to lubricate the fibers and make them easier to separate. Spray the solution lightly onto the matted areas and let it sit for a few minutes before brushing or combing.
Washing with Care
Washing can sometimes help to loosen matted fibers, especially if the matting is caused by dirt or debris. However, it’s important to wash fleece carefully to avoid making the matting worse.
- Preparation: Before washing, turn the fleece item inside out to protect the outer surface. Remove any loose debris or pet hair with a lint roller.
- Washing Machine Settings: Use a gentle cycle with cold water. Avoid using hot water, as it can shrink the fibers and worsen matting.
- Detergent: Use a mild, liquid detergent specifically designed for delicate fabrics. Avoid using harsh detergents, bleach, or fabric softeners, as these can damage the fleece fibers. Some people even use baby shampoo as a very gentle cleanser.
- Extra Rinse Cycle: Add an extra rinse cycle to ensure that all the detergent is removed. Detergent residue can contribute to matting.
- Drying: Avoid putting fleece in the dryer, as the heat can cause the fibers to shrink and mat. Instead, gently squeeze out excess water and lay the fleece item flat to air dry. You can also hang it on a clothesline, but avoid using clothespins that can leave marks.
While the fleece is still damp, you can gently brush or comb it to help separate the fibers and prevent them from matting as it dries.
Using a Fabric Shaver or Sweater Stone
For more severe matting, a fabric shaver or sweater stone can be used to remove the tangled fibers. These tools gently shave off the surface fuzz and pills, leaving the fleece looking smoother and more uniform.
- Fabric Shaver: Choose a fabric shaver with adjustable settings to control the depth of the shave. Start with the lowest setting and gradually increase it as needed. Gently glide the shaver over the matted areas, using light pressure. Avoid pressing too hard, as this can damage the fleece.
- Sweater Stone: A sweater stone is a pumice-like stone that is used to gently rub away pills and fuzz. Hold the stone flat against the matted area and rub it in one direction. Avoid using too much pressure, as this can damage the fleece.
After using a fabric shaver or sweater stone, you may want to gently brush the fleece to remove any loose fibers.
Steam Ironing (With Caution)
Steam ironing can sometimes help to loosen matted fibers and restore the fleece’s loft. However, it’s important to use caution, as high heat can damage the fleece.
- Preparation: Place a clean, damp cloth between the iron and the fleece. This will protect the fleece from direct heat.
- Ironing Settings: Use a low heat setting and plenty of steam. Avoid using a dry iron, as this can scorch the fleece.
- Technique: Gently iron the matted areas in the direction of the fibers. Use short, gentle strokes and avoid pressing down too hard. Lift the iron frequently to prevent overheating.
After steam ironing, allow the fleece to cool completely before handling it. You can also gently brush it to help separate the fibers.
Important Note: This method is riskier than others and is best used as a last resort for heavily matted fleece. Always test a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure that the heat doesn’t damage the fabric.
Preventing Fleece Matting
Prevention is always better than cure. By taking a few simple steps, you can prevent fleece from matting in the first place and keep it looking its best for longer.
- Wash Fleece Separately: Avoid washing fleece with other items that can cause friction, such as towels or jeans.
- Use a Laundry Bag: Place delicate fleece items in a mesh laundry bag to protect them from abrasion during washing.
- Avoid Overloading the Washing Machine: Overloading the washing machine can cause the items to rub against each other, leading to matting.
- Use Gentle Detergent and Avoid Fabric Softener: As mentioned earlier, harsh detergents and fabric softeners can damage the fleece fibers and contribute to matting.
- Air Dry Fleece: Avoid putting fleece in the dryer. Air drying is the best way to prevent shrinking and matting.
- Brush Fleece Regularly: Regularly brushing or combing the fleece can help to prevent tangles and matting.
- Store Fleece Properly: Store fleece items in a clean, dry place. Avoid storing them in tightly packed spaces, as this can cause the fibers to become compressed.
- Avoid Excessive Friction: Be mindful of activities that can cause friction, such as wearing a backpack over a fleece jacket.
Additional Tips and Considerations
- Pet Fleece: For fleece items used by pets, such as blankets or toys, regular washing is even more important to remove dirt, pet hair, and saliva, which can contribute to matting.
- Expensive Fleece: For expensive or delicate fleece items, consider taking them to a professional dry cleaner for cleaning and restoration.
- Static Guard: A static guard spray can help reduce static cling and prevent fibers from attracting each other.
- Patience is Key: Fixing matted fleece can take time and patience. Don’t get discouraged if the first attempt doesn’t completely restore the fleece. Keep trying different methods until you find one that works.
- When to Give Up: In some cases, severe matting may be irreversible. If you’ve tried all of the above methods and the fleece is still heavily matted, it may be time to replace it.
By following these tips and techniques, you can successfully fix matted fleece and keep it looking soft, fluffy, and inviting for years to come. Remember that prevention is the best approach, so prioritize gentle care and regular maintenance to avoid matting in the first place. With a little effort, you can enjoy your favorite fleece items for a long time.
Why does fleece become matted in the first place?
Fleece fabric, particularly synthetic fleece like polyester, tends to matt due to a combination of friction, heat, and improper washing techniques. Constant rubbing against other surfaces, such as during wear or storage, causes the fibers to tangle and interlock. Heat, from washing machines or dryers, can further exacerbate this process by causing the fibers to melt slightly and fuse together, making the matting more pronounced and difficult to remove.
Furthermore, inadequate or harsh washing detergents can strip the natural oils from the fleece fibers, leaving them dry and brittle. This dryness increases their susceptibility to tangling and matting. Over time, dirt, dust, and body oils can also accumulate within the fleece, contributing to the clumping and solidifying of the fibers, thus accelerating the matting process.
What tools do I need to effectively de-matt fleece?
The success of de-matting fleece depends heavily on having the right tools readily available. A good quality slicker brush with fine, angled pins is crucial for gently separating tangled fibers without causing damage. A wide-tooth comb, preferably metal, is also helpful for working through larger mats and clumps, providing a more aggressive approach when necessary, while still being relatively gentle on the fabric.
In addition to brushes and combs, a seam ripper or small pair of scissors can be invaluable for carefully snipping away particularly stubborn or severely matted sections. However, it’s vital to exercise extreme caution when using these sharp tools to avoid accidentally cutting or damaging the underlying fleece material. A spray bottle filled with fabric softener diluted in water can also aid in lubrication and fiber relaxation during the de-matting process.
Can I use regular human hair detangler on matted fleece?
While the temptation to use human hair detangler on matted fleece is understandable, it’s generally not recommended as the primary solution. Many human hair detanglers contain ingredients, such as silicones and heavy oils, that can leave a residue on the fleece fibers. This residue can attract more dirt and dust, potentially worsening the matting problem over time.
However, a very small amount of a mild, silicone-free detangler could be cautiously tested on an inconspicuous area of the fleece to see if it aids in loosening the mats. Be sure to rinse the treated area thoroughly afterward to remove any residual product. It’s generally better to opt for fabric-specific softeners or conditioners diluted in water for a safer and more effective approach.
Will washing matted fleece make the problem worse?
Washing matted fleece can definitely exacerbate the problem if done incorrectly. The agitation of the washing machine can further tangle the fibers, tightening existing mats and creating new ones. High heat during washing or drying is particularly detrimental, as it can cause the fibers to fuse together, making the matting virtually impossible to remove.
However, washing can be beneficial if done correctly as part of the de-matting process. Use cold water, a gentle detergent specifically designed for delicate fabrics, and avoid excessive agitation. Consider using a mesh laundry bag to protect the fleece from friction. After washing, skip the dryer and allow the fleece to air dry completely, gently reshaping it as it dries to prevent further matting.
How can I prevent fleece from matting in the first place?
Prevention is key to keeping fleece soft and mat-free. Proper washing techniques are paramount; always wash fleece in cold water on a gentle cycle, using a mild detergent formulated for delicate fabrics. Avoid using fabric softeners, as they can leave a residue that attracts dirt and contributes to matting over time. Turn the fleece garment inside out before washing to minimize friction.
Equally important is proper drying. Never put fleece in a hot dryer, as the heat can cause the fibers to melt and fuse together, resulting in irreversible matting. Instead, air dry fleece flat on a clean surface or hang it on a padded hanger away from direct sunlight. Regular brushing with a soft-bristled brush can also help prevent tangles and remove loose fibers before they have a chance to mat.
How long does it typically take to de-matt a fleece garment?
The time required to de-matt a fleece garment can vary significantly depending on the severity and extent of the matting. Lightly matted areas might only take a few minutes to address with a slicker brush and gentle combing. However, heavily matted areas, especially those with deeply embedded knots, can take several hours of patient and meticulous work to untangle.
Factors such as the size of the garment, the type of fleece, and the tools you’re using also play a role. Larger items will naturally take longer, and denser fleece may require more effort. Be prepared to dedicate a significant amount of time and patience to the process, especially for older or heavily used fleece items. It’s often best to work in short intervals to avoid fatigue and frustration.
Is it possible to completely restore severely matted fleece?
While diligent effort can significantly improve the appearance and feel of severely matted fleece, it’s not always possible to completely restore it to its original condition. If the matting is extremely dense or if the fibers have been permanently damaged by heat or friction, some degree of stiffness or texture change may remain.
In cases of extreme matting, accepting a slightly less-than-perfect outcome may be necessary. The goal should be to remove as much of the matting as possible, improve the overall texture, and make the fleece more comfortable to use. If the damage is too extensive, consider repurposing the fleece into smaller items or using it for craft projects.