Fleece sheets are getting popular these days. Numerous stores and retailers are observing just how many benefits fleece sheets offer, and they are stocking more and more options in these linens.

There are two definitions for fleece that are currently popular: one refers to the wool shorn from sheep and lambs, and the other refers to the synthetic material, created for use in blankets, clothing and sheets that is popular today. The latter is called polar fleece, or merely, fleece. Let's look at the history of synthetic fleece, especially pertaining to its use in fleece sheets and other products that are commonly used today.

Synthetic Fleece: a History
Up until 1979, wool was the warmest material used for blankets, clothing and other uses. However, in 1979, Polartec LLC (formerly Malden Mills), based out of Lawrence, Massachusetts, created its 'polar fleece' produce. Made from polyethylene terephthalate (commonly known as PET), this lighter, stronger fabric is superior to wool in many ways, due to its ability to breathe and to remain a good source for insulation even when wet. It is machine or hand washable, dries very quickly and can be used for a variety of different reasons. These are the reasons why fleece sheets are appreciated by more and more people around the world.

Polar fleece is very inexpensive to make, and its designer, Aaron Feuerstein, chose not to patent it in order to make it available for a variety of vendors to reproduce and sell it. One of the truly great benefits of fleece is that it can be made from recycled PET bottle in addition to recycled fleece, itself.

As a material, it is highly recommended for those who have adverse reactions or allergies to wool. If treated with flame-retardant material, it can be very safe for use in children's pajamas and the like. Nightgowns, pajamas, blankets, pillow cases and sheets, all provide a warm, comfortable fabric that can help bring about a good night's sleep.

The Many Uses of Synthetic Fleece
Polar fleece is used in a variety of different clothing styles. Popular as jackets, it is also use in hats, gloves, scarves, shirts, sweatpants, 'hoodies' (hooded jackets), socks and sweaters. One of the more popular uses for fleece today is evident in the 'ponchos' you see that are available for purchase. They basically cover the entire body, like a blanket, but fasten in the front (or around back) to allow for the arms to move about freely, while keeping warm. Sometimes, fleece slippers can be found that will compliment pajamas or nightgowns made from the same light, nicely insulated material.

A highly popular trend for polar fleece is noticeable in the use with regard to baby blankets, or throw blankets for children or adults. Baby blankets can be doubled up to provide the ultimate warmth for a small infant, especially when moving them about in the outdoors. Children's clothing, gym clothing and strong outdoor clothing (for outdoor sports extremists) are other popular uses for fleece. Jumpers and suspenders are very popular for toddlers and younger children, too. But one of the best things to consider is how warm you can be, when you need to sleep at night, through the use of sheets and blanket sets.

Fleece sheets and blankets are often used in areas that experience cold daytime or nighttime temperatures. This is especially true for areas that encounter snow or freezing rain. Often, throw blankets can be seen over easy chairs or rocking chairs in homes where such temperatures exist since it can help to thwart the high cost of heating, when used with warm slipper and other similar clothing. Nightgowns and pajamas made from polar fleece are very popular, especially in the winter time.

» Go to Part 2: Superb Over Wool

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