May 2005 Issue
In this months Issue:
Poncho, Coat or Slicker? What to Wear in the Rain
No More Smelly Mothballs
Rain, Rain, Go Away!
Home Laundry Tip
Poncho, Coat or Slicker? What to Wear in the Rain
Last month, we focused on the many different types of fabrics available for rainwear. This month, we'll take a closer look at the design options offered. After all, there's more to selecting rainwear than just deciding what type of fabric it's made from! Here are some features to consider when buying a raincoat.
Parkas and Jackets: This type of outerwear usually comes with a full-zip front so they are easy to take on and off. That's great for convenience, but zippers can mean leaks. Look for storm flaps over the zipper to prevent leaks.
Ponchos: They're inexpensive, waterproof, and allow lots of ventilation. In a heavy wind, a lighter-weight poncho might blow around and not provide as much coverage or overall protection.
Hoods: Yes, they can mess up your hair, but they can also protect you in a steady downpour. The best types of hoods are those that are permanently attached to the jacket or coat, since they will best protect against leaks. Hoods that can be adjusted....either by tabs on the back or with elastic cords with toggles..are your best bet if you're looking for comfort and visibility. Some hoods can be rolled up or folded away when not in use, providing a less bulky look.
Vents: If you're going to be exercising or doing a lot of movement, vents are crucial so the garment can breathe. The larger the vent, the better the airflow, but the greater the chance of leaks.
No More Smelly Mothballs
Let's face it, no one likes the smell of mothballs, but they're often viewed as a necessary evil to keep clothes bug and hole free! Well, we've got an alternative for your woolen items that takes a little bit of work, but it's guaranteed to make your nose happier!
Try this one night before going to bed! Peel a lemon, orange or grapefruit and cut the peels into small strips. Preheat your oven to about 300 degrees, place the peels on a cookie sheet in the oven and then turn the oven off right away. Leave the peels in the oven overnight.
Place the dried peels with woolen items you are planning to store in plastic bags or containers, trunks, etc. You can even put the peels in the pockets of a suit or coat.
Rain, Rain, Go Away!
Since our theme is rain, how can we not include information about buying umbrellas?
Before purchasing an umbrella, hold it up to the light. If a lot of light comes through, rain probably will, too. Look for a lot of ribs in the umbrella; this will make it stronger. Also examine the number of tacks holding the fabric to the ribs; the more the better.
We know umbrellas that open automatically, with the push of a button, seem very attractive, but they do tend to be weaker&and they're more likely to turn inside out in a heavy wind or downpour.
Once you've purchased your umbrella, you can keep it in good working order by occasionally rubbing a little petroleum jelly on the hinges. Not only will this help it open and close more easily, it will also help prevent rust.
Now, let it rain!
Home Laundry Tip
Do you feel as though your clothes aren't holding up well? After a few washings, are they looking worn? The culprit might be too much chlorine bleach. That's because chlorine is very tough on fibers and can quickly wear them down, especially more delicate or loosely woven items. The good news? You don't have to get rid of chlorine bleach; you just have to be careful. Be sure to add it to the cycle at the correct time, and also consider diluting it a bit before pouring it into the machine. Your clothes will thank you!