Flannel material is often confused for cotton, but it is processed differently from most types of cotton in the market. It has a fuzzy and heavy texture which makes it ideal for use when the weather is cool or cold. The material can be made into different designs even though the most common one is plaid. Luckily, flannel can be used to make garments for children and adults making it a “must have” for individuals looking for eco-friendly materials that are not very common.
Popular garments made from flannel material
Flannel is easy to sew and can be made into different types of clothing depending on your preference. Although garments made from flannel are quite diverse, there are some that are quite popular such as:
· Blankets
Flannel blankets can maintain a temperature that is comfortable throughout the night. The blankets retain heat that ensures you sleep well regardless of the time you get into bed or the weather outside. They are also durable irrespective of the number of times they are washed, making them an excellent investment for the winter months. Also, they are sold in a variety of colors and patterns making it possible to choose one that matches your existing bedroom décor.
· Sheets
Flannel sheets are a favorite of homeowners that are looking for a soft yet warm fabric to use on their beds. The material has a cozy feel when it touches the skin and is ideal for months that are colder than usual. As the sheets trap air to keep you warm, they are also breathable making them the best option for individuals that do not like waking up sweaty and hot. The sheets can also be paired up with flannel blankets to provide maximum warmth in colder months. Also, cleaning them is easy as they can be washed by hand or machine and hanged on a clothesline to dry.
· Sleepwear
The most common type of sleepwear made from flannel material is pajamas. Flannel pajamas are versatile and are often made into bottoms, nightgowns and two-sets for men, women, and children respectively. These garments are quite warm and ideal for keeping the cold away during the night. Apart from the warmth it provides, the material is also available in various prints making it possible for you to choose the pattern that appeals to you. Additionally, the dense material can withstand regular use without it showing any deterioration in the short term.
· Cloth Diapers
Cloth diapers with flannel inserts have become popular over the years with many mothers using them for their babies. The material keeps the baby warm, comfortable and is soft on the skin making them an ideal choice for baby diapers. Aside from warmth, the material does not allow moisture to build up thus eliminating the development of diaper rash. Mothers can also buy flannel diapers in different colors and prints at affordable costs.
Why flannel material is eco-friendly
As the world gravitates towards the use of eco-friendly materials to reduce harmful emissions in the environment, textiles used in garment creation are not left behind. Flannel is a material that is used in the construction of different garments and is deemed to be eco-friendly and safe to use. Some of the reasons why the material is termed as organic are:
· Its production does not leave a huge carbon footprint
Although Flannel is a synthetic fiber, its carbon footprint after production is not as large as those left by other fabrics. Most times, it is blended with cotton making it an ideal fabric for the production of various types of garments that are eco-friendly. Wearing flannel garments does not negatively affect the environment as it processed from naturally grown cotton that is considered a natural fiber.
· It is friendly to the skin
Flannel does not irritate the skin in any way and is ideal for making garments for children and adults. It is often paired with cotton to give items such as beddings and pajamas a warm and soft feel when it touches the skin. The use of natural dyes in the development of the design and color of the fabric makes it a good choice for anyone seeking eco-friendly materials for their clothing or beddings.
· It is a sustainable fabric
Flannel material is used to make durable clothing that can be recycled, thus saving the environment from harmful emissions that are common with the production of synthetic fibers. The long-lasting nature of flannel makes it a favorite for people that are looking for a garment that they can wear over and over again. Majority of garments made from flannel are high quality thus ensuring a long garment life and less adverse impact on the environment.
· It is easy to dispose
Cloth diapers made from flannel are recyclable making them the best choice for those seeking not to add to the landfills already full of regular disposable diapers. The cloth diapers can be used for many years with only the inserts being replaced after they are soiled resulting in less pollution. Overall, using diapers made from flannel over and over again contributes to the preservation of the environment in the long run.
· It helps save on electricity
Electricity generation contributes significantly to harmful gas emissions which eventually damages the ecosystem. When using flannel sheets, you do not have to use power to warm yourself resulting in fewer emissions and lower bills. The sheets trap heat for long periods thus making it possible to spend the day without putting the house heater on. Also, the more flannel clothing items in your home, the less electricity you need to keep warm.
Overall, flannel material is worth investing in when looking for environmentally friendly garments. The fabric is designed for the benefit of the user especially in cold months without putting the environment in danger because of its use. So far, flannel is considered to be an eco-friendly material that can be used for making of garments across the world.