The glitter/sparkles do come off. I think it takes many washings before all comes off. I don't actively avoid the glittery fabric, and I don't worry too much about what happens to the glitter. i suppose I would worry more if I'd gotten some in my eye, though. There was some glittery glow in the dark fabric with cat eyes that just called to me a few years ago. It was very stiff, and still is even after washing.