I found that flannel from brand name like Moda, Riley Blake, etc. never fade, but for the pilling issue, you never know. Looking at the flannel backing of my quilt, I found more pilling in some area after only a few wash! But compared to the pilling of what I consider garnement flannel (the generic brand I buy from Joann or any big fabric store) it's nothing. I can live with a bit of pilling, but I don't want the fabric to become flimsy and faded.