There are different types of raw materials used to make clothes. They include: wool, cotton, leather, silk, nylon, linen, rubber, etc…
- Wool: Absorbs and removes water slowly. It traps moist air between its fibers hence, is a poor conductor of heat. It is therefore good for cold weathers.
- Cotton: It absorbs sweat easily and produces a cooling effect. It’s fibers trap very little air hence, it is good for warm weathers, sport wears, etc…
- Linen:Conducts heat faster than cotton and can only hold a small amount of mixture. It absorbs and loses water poorly. It does not easily pick up dirt or germs. It is good for hot weathers, but not for underwear.
- Silk:It is a better conductor than wool. It absorbs water slowly and easily becomes wet. It is not as good as cotton for underwear.
- Nylon:It is not absorbant and it dries quickly. It takes the temperature of the atmosphere hence; it is not good for hot or cold weathers. It is good for night wears and for rainy days with moderate temperatures.
- Leather:Good for cold weather because it acts as wind-proof. It is not good for hot weather because it retains heat since it does not easily absorb sweat. It is good for boots, shoes and heavy sweaters.
- Rubber: It is a very good water-proof material hence, it is good for rain coats and boots.
Reasons why we put on clothes
- To cover our nakedness
- To decorate ourselves
- To keep the body warm during cold weathers
- To protect our bodies from germs
- To protect the body against hot sunlight
- For cultural identification
- For the identification of a group of person, example: the students of C.O.H.A.S have a uniform that identifies and differentiate them from students of other schools
- For prestige, example: luxurious suits, party gowns, etc…
- To protect the body from mechanical injuries, example: boots worn in workshops