Extension Communications
3614 Administrative Services Building
Ames, Iowa 50011-3614
(515) 294-9915
2/12/01
Contacts:
Janis Stone, Extension Textiles and Clothing, (515)
294-6712, jfstone@iastate.edu
Carol Ouverson, Extension Communication Systems, (515)
294-9460, couverso@iastate.edu
Trying to Stay Warm this Winter?
AMES, Ia--Meeting the challenge of keeping warm this winter can be a difficult task. One way to help fight off the cold is by purchasing a new blanket, suggests textiles and clothing specialist from Iowa State University Extension.
"When you shop, remember to consider not only cost, but also warmth, durability and care requirements," said specialist Janis Stone. "The market place offers a wide variety of blankets and consumers should have no problem finding a blanket that suits their needs."
The warmth of a blanket is determined by its thickness, resilience and fiber content, said Stone.
"The benefits of the different types of blankets will vary depending on each specific blanket," said Stone. "For example, cotton thermal-weave blankets are washable, very durable and warm with an additional blanket placed on top. Vellux‚ blankets are velvet-like and very lightweight, yet warm. They are washable, but don't wear as long as other types of blankets."
Wool blankets are probably the most costly, but also the most durable blanket. Care is critical to how well they perform.
"If considering an electric blanket, consumers need to consider safety issues and precautions before making a purchase," Stone recommends. "Electrical fires have occurred when good safety precautions were not followed."
For more information on textiles and clothing, contact the local county office of ISU Extension or access the Web site at http://www.extension.iastate.edu/.
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Extension programs are available to all without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, or disability.