Wool, Silk, Electric Blankets, and Polar Fleece for Winter Bedding

• Classic Wool Blankets

  Wickipedia says that "Wool is the fiber derived from the hair of domesticated animals, usually sheep." The hair is shorn from the sheep, spun into threads, and woven into a variety of grades, weights, and qualities of fabric.

  Because wool has natural lanolin, it is both fire -and water resistant. A resulting unique quality of wool is that it retains its warmth even when wet.

  According to Woolrich, "In the late 1700's, wool blankets were so important to comfort and survival that they were used as a form of currency between trappers and Native Americans." And today, fine wool blankets are cherished and passed from generation to generation.

  Moths love to chew away at good wool blankets, so when not in use, the blanket should be stored in a cedar-lined chest or closet.

  Wool blankets must be dry cleaned to retain their size and feel.

  Learn more about the benefits of wool and how to care for fine woolen pieces from St. Peter Woolen Mill.

• Luxurious Silk

  A silk-filled, silk covered comforter has one half the weight of a comparably-sized down comforter. The sense of luxury and softness cannot be surpassed.

  For over 2000 years, only the emperor of China could wear garments of silk, but now it is available for everyone's home.

  Silk fibers are breathable, lightweight, very supple, and constantly equalize temperature. A comforter of silk conforms to the body and is not as puffy as down. All silk products are naturally hypoallergenic.

  A silk comforter needs to be dry cleaned, so we recommend that you use a duvet cover to protect the comforter and prolong its life.

• Space-Age Polar Fleece

  Polar fleece is a man-made fiber of polyester. By trapping air in the hollow core fibers, polar fleece provides optimum warmth and softness.

  A polar fleece blanket is very lightweight and can fold up into a small space when not in use. It washes up beautifully and ]does not pill.

  See this page for more information and sources on choosing and caring for polar fleece.

• Toasty-Warm Electric Blankets

  The first electric bedding products were invented in the early 1900's, but the first model of blanket was invented in 1936.

  Electric blankets and mattress pads are a great solution if you want instant heat! If you turn the blanket about 5 minutes before hopping into bed, the bed will be warm and toasty when you get in.

  Though some people are concerned about sleeping with electric cords on their bed, I've used one for many years and find an electric blanket the ultimate solution to a chilly bed. And while electric blankets are not recommended for children, my two daughters have had them all their lives.

  Don't try to find an electric blanket in your favorite shade of blue. Color choices are few!

  Most electric blankets are machine washable and can be folded, taking care not to crimp the wires.

  Electric blankets are available in all the standard sizes and come with a variety of heat controls. For double, queen, and king beds, there are usually two controls so that each sleeper can adjust their side. Some new controls have timers and go off and on as desired.

  If you're curious about the origin of electric blankets, you might find this article from About's Guide to Inventors interesting.

Read about Feather Beds, Flannel Sheets, and Mattress Pads

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