Bike blankets: composition and sizes
Many people associate a bike blanket with home comfort, a familiar feeling that comes from childhood. The flip-flop product contains only natural cotton with an admixture of wool or viscose fibers. The presence of synthetics indicates a fake. Bike items are versatile, easy to care for and serve as bedding for a long time. It is pleasant to sleep and rest under the delicate fabric.
Description and composition of the material
To get an idea of what a bike is, it's worth going back to history. The exact information about where exactly the baize matter was invented is unknown. The first mention of it dates back to 1668. In Russia, the bike came into use in the 18th century. Probably, the popularization of the fabric in the domestic open spaces was promoted by the reforms carried out by Peter the Great. The fabric began to be used for sewing garments, wardrobe items and blankets.
Initially, only wool was used for the production of this fabric. Its name is indirectly related to this fact - often the wool was brown, which in Latin sounds like badius. The original fleece fabrics were dark in color.
In addition, it is widely believed that the name "bike" could have contributed to the old French word baie - woolen fabric.
Soon they switched from the production of woolen varieties to semi-woolen ones. This decision not only led to a reduction in the cost of the material, but also had a positive effect on its strength characteristics. Modern production of flannel material is based on the use of 100% raw cotton. Therefore, most consumers, when they mention a bike, imagine it is a cotton blanket.It is important that no synthetic additives are included in its composition.
The bike blanket is distinguished by its softness, lightness and delicate texture. Quality duvets with cotton fibers are completely hypoallergenic and environmentally friendly. For effective thermal insulation and density, a small addition of woolen threads to the composition is allowed, and strength and elasticity are provided by the addition of viscose.
Density is an indicator of the total number of warp and weft threads per area of 10 cm2. The bike is characterized by a dense structure created by a certain weave of threads. A blanket made of this fabric keeps warm well and remains during active use.
If on the label of a blanket similar to a bike blanket it says "100% polyester" or "100% acrylic" - it has nothing to do with the properties of a bike. In the absence of thermal conductivity, active sweating begins under such a blanket.
Modern technologies for the manufacture of bike blankets are automated and regulated by GOST 27832–88. It consists of the following working steps.
- Natural materials are cleaned on special equipment from particles of debris and seeds. Both cotton and wool, if used, are cleaned. It is treated with alkali.
- Refined materials are used to create thin threads of various thicknesses and degrees of strength.
- The threads obtained at the previous stage are woven into a canvas, creating a fabric. The threads are intertwined and a suitable width is laid during the weaving process. Cut to length later.
- The canvas is bleached.
- Staining is in progress.
- Drawing is in progress.
- The garment is brushed to create a hairiness that keeps fabrics soft and warm.
- The final step is cutting the textiles with subsequent processing with an overlock.
The process of creating a picture deserves special attention. It is applied in the following ways:
- direct - cover white or dyed fabric with a pattern;
- etching - a chemical is used that destroys the dye of the fabric, as a result of which a bright background is painted with white patterns.
It should be noted that, in addition to standard bike blankets, there is also a jacquard variety. Due to the special method of weaving of threads, such a blanket in everyday life is not threatened with creases and breaks. And if an ordinary bike is dyed entirely, then jacquard is made of dyed threads. Due to this, it is possible to achieve an effective pattern on both sides of the fabric.
Advantages and disadvantages
In addition to the listed advantages, bike blankets have other positive characteristics.
- The material has excellent breathability. Oxygen is freely supplied to the body. Optimum moisture level and a feeling of comfort are created under the biker fabric.
- It is unusual for cotton fiber to become electrified.
- With a high density of fabric, the blanket has a low weight.
- The bike is a hygroscopic material that perfectly absorbs moisture and dries quickly.
- Doesn't need any special care. Easy to wash, including in a typewriter.
- Comfortable during operation. It is very cozy under the soft fleecy fabric.
- It can be used in many different ways.
- Safe material. A small child will not be able to choke with short villi.
- Durability. High level of wear resistance. When used carefully, the blanket will last for decades.
- The use of persistent dyes gives the product an aesthetic appearance for the entire service life.
- Color solutions. The decor is constantly being improved. Many modern designs may well serve as blankets or bedspreads.
- Soft bedding is hypoallergenic and is indicated even for sensitive skin.
- Compact size with good bike density. The thing is convenient to use as a home blanket and take on trips.
- The material protects well from cold at a relatively low weight.
- Versatility.With their characteristics, duvets are great for consumers of all ages, including babies.
- Low cost. Affordable products with good wear resistance are an indispensable item in kindergartens, camps, sanatoriums and barracks. At the same time, the low cost does not detract from the quality of the products. When buying an army model, there is an opportunity to significantly save money.
This blanket has no significant drawbacks. But if fibers of synthetic origin are added to the composition, the product will soon lose its presentation, become tough, knocked down and excessively dense.
Dimensions (edit)
Bike blankets are presented in a wide assortment and in a large size range. The parameters are standard. The exact information is indicated on the label.
Double
Designed for 2 adults. Can serve as a bedspread. The size of the "double" flannel blanket is 200x220 cm. The products are decorated with drawings with geometric ornaments and plant motifs.
One and a half
Suitable size for teenagers and adults of average height. The choice is possible between widths 140x205 and 150x205 cm. Blankets are suitable for daily use. They fit easily into the drum of the washing machine. Patterns in the form of rhombuses and other shapes, including floral motifs, prevail. Three-color options are available in stores.
Baby
Bike blankets for kids vary in size. The most demanded size is 110x140. But the specific parameters depend on the manufacturer. Products for young consumers are distinguished by bright colors. They are often decorated with animal drawings.
For a newborn or for discharge
The smallest soft-bike blankets have dimensions of 80x100 and 90x90 cm. For discharge, you can purchase not only a miniature blanket, but also a larger version (100x140 cm). It is much more convenient to form an envelope from it. The bike blanket, depending on the composition, is suitable for the cool and warm seasons. A cotton blanket with the addition of wool can be used to cover a child in cool weather.
For a newborn, a fleece blanket will come in handy in the warm season. It is recommended by modern pediatricians. The optimal size is 1.10 cm in width and 1.40 cm in length. This is a very comfortable option for a walk. It is comfortable for a child, warmth is well preserved inside. At the same time, the blanket weighs little and is comfortable for the baby's body.
Bike material can look very elegant, therefore it is also suitable for discharge from the hospital. It is absolutely environmentally friendly, which is necessary for a thing designed for children. A variety of products are supplied to the shops.
Each parent can choose the color they like, or they can choose blue for a newborn son, or pink for a little daughter.
Manufacturers overview
The cost of the product is determined at the discretion of each manufacturer.
- "Firebird" (a company from the city of Ivanovo) - the cost of blankets from a bike starts at 260 rubles. for the minimum size and up to 650 rubles. for a 2-bed option.
- "Valetex" (Ivanovo). In this company, the price tag ranges from 580 to 1900 rubles.
- Bivik. Ivanovo manufacturer of inexpensive blankets, which are added with synthetic fibers. Prices - from 240 to 440 rubles.
- Ermolino. Kaluga TM "Eroshka". Produces premium textile accessories. A wide range of models and sizes, designed for a wide range of consumers. On average, the price is from 900 to 1700 rubles.
- Vladi. First-class products for sleeping and relaxing in single or double sizes and an attractive look.
How to wash?
Linen blankets should be washed at least once a month. Thus, the product will retain its original appearance and its positive properties for a long time.
If there are stains on the product, it is recommended to pre-treat the dirty spots. They need to be removed in a timely manner, otherwise it will be almost unrealistic to return the product to its original appearance.
You can wash a blanket from a bike with your hands and in a washing machine. If the second method is chosen, then the wash is carried out on a gentle mode, at a maximum of 40 degrees, in order to keep the dimensions of the product unchanged.
Basic rules of care
- For a bike, choose a liquid detergent.
- Delicate spin by hand or in an automatic type machine at minimum speed, so as not to cause deformation of the bike.
- Shown was wash with air conditioner.
- Cleaning is not recommended too often.
- The product is supposed to dry in the open air.
- It is advisable to put a duvet cover on the blanket.
- Blankets should be shaken out regularly.
- The humidity level in the room where the fleece blanket is located should be monitored. The same goes for the temperature regime. Regular ventilation is desirable.
- It is better to store a duvet made of flannel in a special cover made of breathable material.
- To give an old blanket an updated look, after washing it, you need to iron it and comb the pile with a brush.
With improper care, the product may undergo deformation, become smaller, and harder.
How to iron?
After the blanket is completely dry, it coarsens a little to the touch, so ironing is highly recommended. The iron temperature should not exceed 150-160 ° C. You will need gauze when ironing.
Through it, the blanket is ironed on both sides, and then carefully combed with a special brush with a bristle of moderate softness. The raised villi will return the required volume and pleasant fluffiness to the canvas.
How to choose?
If you want to get a fleece blanket, it is recommended to take into account some points.
- Determine for whom and for what purpose the product is supposed to be used.
- Make sure you need a specific size blanket.
- Examine the color fastness. Better to feel the thing, lightly rub and stroke the pile, wrinkle it with your fingers, especially around the edge. If the skin does not stain, it means that the product is dyed with high quality.
- A new blanket must be washed before use. A fleece with wool is prone to shrinkage. With this in mind, clean the bike in warm water.
- For every day, you should choose a blanket in a neutral, pastel color. For children, colorful options with drawings of their favorite characters, stars, clouds and cute animals are suitable.
- Look at the label for size and cleaning methods.
- When choosing bedding, the buyer should examine its edging. Ideal if it is made from a different fabric. If there is no edging, then sooner or later the blanket will have to be changed. The fabric will quickly stretch and lose its original shape. But some thick blankets do not need edging. It is important to check the density and quality of the weave.
Having evaluated the characteristics of bike blankets, we can confidently judge that such products combine comfort and lightness. For a reasonable price, you can purchase a durable, versatile product with high heat saving properties. And among modern colors, those who prefer classic quality, but gravitate towards a variety of decor, can get a good option.
A bike blanket with a natural composition and delicate pile will be an excellent gift for young parents, a car enthusiast, or suitable for a summer cottage, a picnic. No wonder this textile product evokes associations with comfort and serenity.