Pilling machines: features, types and selection

Pellets are a nuisance known to many that always happens inappropriately and for some reason with the most beloved things. Wearing a thing covered with lumps and pellets with the same feeling as before, when there were none, is no longer possible. Attempts to get rid of them have always been made, however, their success for a long time was very doubtful. At the end of the 20th century, several manufacturers of household appliances began producing machines for removing pellets at once.

The principle of operation and the device of the machine for removing pellets resembles the electric razor invented a century earlier. The difference is the lower speed of rotation of the blades, as well as a container for collecting the cut material.

The safety net ensures the safety of the device by protecting it from contact with the rotating sharp blades and minimizing the effect of the rotating structural elements on the fabric.

The cut pellets are carried away by the air flow into a special container. Most often it is made transparent, which allows you to control the degree of filling.

For a more effective removal of unwanted elements formed on clothing, it is recommended to lay the item on a flat, but not hard, surface. Before processing, it is advisable to try to smooth out all the wrinkles. It is necessary to process without haste, avoiding force, as this can lead to cuts in the main fabric of the fabric. It is important to follow the instructions when working with the device.

The advantages of the machine are obvious.The device is usually small, usually ergonomic. The fabric is cleaned quickly, without undue effort. The cleaning process is very effective and it won't take long for new lumps to appear.

The disadvantages of these simple units usually stem from their design and they may differ from model to model. Some are characterized by low power and are not suitable for cleaning a coat, and even more so a carpet. Others may not have a knife height adjuster and this can damage delicate and delicate fabrics. Battery operated machines require frequent replacement. Cordless cars need long-term charging.

In this section, all goods will be classified according to the type of power supply: from the 220 V electrical network, from the battery, from replaceable batteries.

Of course, in no case should you ignore products manufactured under well-known brands. As a rule, it is she who turns out to be the best in her category.

Let's start with the lightest battery-powered devices.

Of course, one of the best models with replaceable batteries can be considered Philips GC026. The device has an ergonomic body that fits comfortably even in a small hand. The weight of the machine is 0.3 kg. The wide mesh surface with various mesh sizes ensures safe work and perfect cleaning from pellets, lint and lumps. Large transparent container for cut waste can be easily removed for cleaning. The disadvantage would be the rather high price. But in this case, the price is a sign of quality.

Austrian company First is actively mastering small equipment, which includes machines for collecting pellets. There are several models of devices from this company on the market. All of them are equipped with stainless steel blades, a transparent capacious removable container and are lightweight. The company's models are distinguished by high ergonomics. However, the company has not yet come up with any original solutions to extend the service life of its products. No repairs or replacement of worn-out parts are provided.

The popular model is very original Dexp TLM-01. The unusual design will certainly draw attention to this very serious unit. The machine gives the impression of reliability, not only externally. The almost silent motor, thanks to its wide working surface, can handle a wide variety of spools on various fabrics. The blades are made of stainless steel. However, the height of the knives is not adjustable and you should be very careful when cleaning delicate items. Also, the non-removable handle makes the lightweight and compact machine rather inconvenient for transportation.

The well-known Chinese-Russian brand Scarlett offers several relatively inexpensive devices. Scarlett SC-921 - a very good alternative to expensive models. The container for collecting the pellets of this device is relatively small, but quite accessible for observation. Also, the machine is distinguished by a smaller diameter of the working surface. When cleaning a large product, you have to make more movements.

Scarlett SC 920 - another popular model of this company. The typewriter is slightly larger. The transparent container is visible and easy to remove. The mesh has a protective cover that prevents mechanical stress and the ingress of debris during storage or transportation. The absence of a battery charge indicator requires the constant availability of replaceable batteries.

Despite the popularity of the Maxwell brand, the company produces very affordable versions of the machine for cutting spools. Maxwell MW-3101 and Maxwell MW-3101 W... The advantages of the models can be considered compactness and lightness. The second machine has a comfortable grip, a spacious container for pellets, and a wide working surface. However, as a device that you can take with you on a trip, this machine will hardly work. Despite its lightness, it has a rather large size. The disadvantage of both products of the company is the insufficient hardness of the knives, which cannot be replaced.

Sindo SS 4046 - an apparatus designed specifically for cleaning woolen products. The features of the lattice do not allow handling things made of thin materials. Users do not always follow the instructions in the instructions, which is often the reason for serious complaints about this specialized unit. High power requires frequent replacement of batteries, and the lack of a charge indicator often does not allow you to notice the problem during.

Model Smile MC 3103 has a very compact, ergonomic body. The lint and pellet container is easy to assemble and dismantle. The model is great for travel or business trips, its weight does not exceed 200 g. It works great during the warranty period (12 months), but you should not expect long-term flawless work from it. Despite the fact that the knives are made of metal, they usually fail as a result of banal bluntness.

Universal unit VES V-HT 9 differs in the ability to work from different power sources. In addition to batteries, the machine can be connected to the mains. So its creators have significantly expanded the range of applications for their products. The typewriter can be used at home from the mains and on the road from the battery. The blades remain the weak point of this model.

Russian rechargeable car "Mig 6002" features a modern design and compact construction with a spacious container for cut pellets. The motor power is 2 W. The height of the blades of this model can be adjusted, which significantly expands the range of use. However, the clipper must not be used while charging, which can take up to 8 hours. Fully charged batteries allow continuous operation for 30 minutes. It is one of the lightest cordless models, weighing only 90g.

Battery device Sentek CT 2471 weighs no more than 200 g. Continuously without recharging can work for 30 minutes - this is enough for a thorough cleaning of several things. The working surface has a diameter of 6 cm, which allows you to process a large surface in one pass. The height of the machine's blades can be adjusted, thanks to which it can be used equally effectively for cleaning rough fabrics and for caring for delicate items. The disadvantage is long-term battery charging - at least 8 hours from a 220 volt electrical network.

Xiaomi Deerma DEM-MQ811 - the original model of a famous Chinese brand. This powerful machine is suitable even for cleaning carpets and furniture. It also successfully cleans fine fabrics. The working surface is wide, and the diameter of the holes in the mesh allows you to tighten the pellets and lumps of any size with an air flow. The set includes a USB cable that allows you to recharge the battery from a computer or through a power supply, which, unfortunately, needs to be purchased separately. A special feature is that the machine can work during recharging, you will not need to wait for several hours. The knives are made of stainless steel.

A small Chinese cordless machine with a cumbersome name - Fuzz Removing Mashine 803, was developed taking into account the wishes of users. The case turned out to be very comfortable. It is easy to operate the device regardless of hand size. The machine weighs only 190 g and fits into any luggage without problems. Batteries charged for 6 hours allow using the device for 45 minutes. The moving surfaces and grate are made of regular steel and will not be able to come into contact with water.

The Russian car has proven itself well "Mig 6011"... The model has a durable plastic case with a comfortable stationary handle. The power is 5 W, which is enough to clean absolutely any fabric. The mesh covering the rotating knives makes this domestic apparatus safe for both the user and the fabrics. The width of the working surface of 5 cm allows you to complete the work quickly enough. The length of a standard power cord is 1.5 meters, which is also quite convenient. Quiet operation of the device can be not the least among its advantages. But taking it on the road will be problematic, the dimensions of the product are quite large, and it is impossible to use it in the absence of an electrical network.

Another Russian apparatus "Mikma IP 1002" has a slightly lower motor power - 4 watts. But this is still more than that of cordless machines or their counterparts powered by batteries. An additional argument in favor of Mikma can be a blade height adjuster, and the working head, together with a metal mesh, has a floating structure and is capable of tilting changes in relation to the machine body. The complete set includes a protective plastic cover that prevents the penetration of dust and other contaminants to the working surfaces.

Chinese device Lint Remover YX-5880 has a 4 W motor, long power cord with adapter. The device removes both small and large lumps of lint equally well. The set includes replaceable blades, which significantly lengthens the service life.

To some, advice on what to base on when choosing such a seemingly insignificant element of modern technogenic civilization, like a machine for removing pellets, may seem superfluous among the abundance of complex technology. However, we dare to take on this task. So how do you choose this really useful gadget?

• First of all, the machine should be comfortable to use, this will not only increase productivity, but also protect the fabric from awkward movements when the working surface comes into contact with the fabric at an angle or too tightly. Before buying, it is advisable to hold the model you like in your hand, twirl it, analyzing your feelings. If you feel uncomfortable, it is better to try a different model.
• If you do not plan to handle things on an industrial scale or furniture upholstery and coats, an overly powerful model may not be justified.
• If you plan to clean things while traveling or on business trips, a model with replaceable batteries is ideal.
• For processing things at home, it is better to choose a powerful universal apparatus with adjustable blade heights and power from a stationary power supply.
• An important selection criterion can be the quality of the cutting surface of the knives. Stainless steel knives are ideal.

In use, the lint remover resembles shaving with an electric razor. Of course, if there is no need to clean the fabric, it’s better not to do it. But if lumps of matted pile do appear, they can be easily removed.

• To do this, you need to make sure that the safety net and the knives for cutting the spools are clean. Before collecting pellets, it is advisable to check the charge of the rechargeable battery or batteries.
• The thing that needs a haircut should be laid out on a flat surface, avoiding folds; an ironing board is well suited for this. If the machine is powered by the mains, care must be taken to ensure that the length of the power cord is sufficient.
• If the height of the knives is adjustable, use the instructions to set the appropriate height for the fabric.
• When the device is turned on, it is necessary to sequentially, at an average speed, pass along the straightened surface of the product.
• During operation, it is periodically necessary to check the cleanliness of the mesh and the degree of filling of the container for collecting fluff and pellets, and promptly clean them.
• Upon completion of the work, it is necessary to thoroughly clean the unit itself, and lubricate the cutting surfaces with special oil.

There are many reviews of the pellet collecting machines. It is hardly justifiable to analyze all the mentioned models within the limited framework of the article, let's try to summarize the often contradictory data.

Let's start with a positive assessment. For many, this is an irreplaceable assistant - the machine has given new life to things. She is able to renew a sweater and a coat, extending their wear by almost half.

Of course, there are also negative reviews. For some users, the knives became dull after six months. The appliance has to be thrown away as the blades are often irreplaceable.

Philips GC026 is said to be unreasonably expensive, the same effect can be obtained using the inexpensive Chinese model.

See below for an overview of the lint remover.