No matter how nice an outfit looks from far away, it’s a problem if it’s covered in lint, stray hairs, or pills up close. Come winter, pilling sweaters threaten to throw the style equilibrium off its axis, Particularly at risk: my favorite season-old Extreme Cashmere sweater, which is my go-to piece for cold days.

It doesn’t matter how plush or expensive a sweater may be — high-friction areas like the elbow, armpit, and waist become covered in furry little bits of fabric that can make something fancy into something unpolished. And though there’s something satisfying about pulling off little pills individually, it’s ultimately way too time-consuming.

Luckily, the solution is small enough to slip into my purse: a sweater brush or comb.

Updated December 4, 2025: Updated prices and ch

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