Frequently Asked Questions

ARE THE BLANKETS FIRE RISISTANT?

This is the most frequent question we get asked.  And there are many debates about fleece blankets vs wool, especially as many are taken on camp and worn around scout and guide campfires.

POLYESTER VS WOOL

So how safe is polyester fleece?  In normal conditions, fleece won’t catch fire, so it isn't flammable.  In fact polyester is known for its fire resistance.  However whilst polyester is flame-resistant, it is not entirely fire-retardant and can melt when hot (hence why you don't iron polyester).  The melting temperature of polyester is quite hot - 482°F (295°C).  Polyester fleece has so many fantastic properties it is by far the most popular blanket we sell.  It is also worth noting that many coats, hoodies and even tshirts are made from polyester so run the same risk around a campfire.  

Wool, being a natural fabric, is well known for being flame resistant and offers a greater level of fire safety than other fibres.  However it is rather scratchy, heavy and has a higher cost than fleece and once you start adding badges/patches (which are usually made from polyester) onto the blanket it's flame resistance is reduced.

Traditional army blankets are made from wool and mixed fibres and have good flame resistance.  They are softer than 100% but are pretty heavy.

Both fabrics have their pros and cons and they are great fabrics in their own right.  The best choice for you depends on what characteristics you look for in a fabric and your budget.

No loose clothing should be worn around flames, so if you go close to a fire remove anything flapping around, no matter what material. 

FABRICS WE USE

If you wish to have a sample please contact us.

Anti Pil Polyester Fleece
The plain colour fleeces are made from high quality 280gsm 100% polyester anti pil fleece.  Anti pil means you don't get the 'bobbling' common among lesser quality fabric.  Polyester is a manmade fabric and is perfect for a warm blanket, being lightweight, non-absorbent, quick drying and durable.  It is very easy to wash but should not be ironed.

Cuddle Fleece
Cuddle Fleece is a super soft and luxurious fleece, made from 100% polyester.  Our high quality cuddle fleece has mid length fibres both inside and on the outer side for extra softness that makes you want to stroke it!

Digital Bubs Fleece
This is a relatively new way of creating wonderful designs on polyester fabrics.  It is digitally printed on one side and left blank on the other.  Our Bubs fleece is white on the inside and has short fibres.  We use the highest quality, 300gsm polyester fleece that gives wonderful softness.

Mixed Fibres
The material we use in our army surplus blankets are 55% wool and 45% mixed fibres.  It is a woven material, not as soft as fleece, but still feels gentle on teh skin.  As it gives a little more fire resistance than the polyester fleece, its a great option for those who like to be around campfires.  These blankets should be dry cleaned only.

100% Wool
Our wool blanket ponchos are made with high quality boiled wool, and are often chosen by those around campfires a lot as wool has natural fire resistant properties.  The fabric is boiled to prevent shrinkage, and is of a rougher texture but is fabulous at keeping you cosy. These blankets should be washed in a gentle cold-to-lukewarm bath (an actual bath would be good where it can spread out and not need moving about much) with a specific wool wash. Avoid agitation or wringing. Carefully rinse and roll and press in a towel to remove excess water.  

HOW DO I KEEP MY FLEECE BLANKET SOFT?

The way to keep your fleece blanket soft is to simply wash it.  Use a cool wash and don't use fabric conditioner as it doesn't work well with fleece fibres.  

HOW FAST WILL MY ORDER ARRIVE?
It depends if I have the blanket you have ordered already made up.  If I have one it will go out within one or 2 days.  However, I generally make them to order, and I try to get them into the post within 3 days, depending on how busy I am.  If you have a deadline to receive the item please drop me a message and I can let you know current timescales. 

 

 

 
Information about Polyester Fleece taken from https://fireproofdepot.com/fleece-flammable/