Abstract: Among other things, the disclosure features a thermal blanket including a unitary fabric element having predetermined discrete regions of contrasting insulative capacities arranged based on insulative needs of corresponding regions of a user's body. In one or more first discrete regions of the unitary fabric element, one of the predetermined discrete regions of contrasting insulative capacities consists of loop yarn having a first pile height, and in one or more other discrete regions of the unitary fabric element, another one of the predetermined discrete regions of contrasting insulative capacities consists of loop yarn having another pile height different from and relatively greater than the first pile height. The unitary fabric element comprises fibers having an axial core surrounded by a multiplicity of radially extending, axially-elongated whiskers, separated by axially-extending grooves.

Abstract: An insulated composite fabric that includes an inner fabric layer, an outer fabric layer, and an insulating-filler fabric layer enclosed between the inner fabric layer and the outer fabric layer. The insulating-filler fabric layer is a textile fabric with a raised surface on at least one side of the fabric. The insulating-filler fabric layer comprises fibers having an axial core surrounded by a multiplicity of radially extending, axially-elongated whiskers, separated by axially-extending grooves.

Abstract: The disclosure features a fabric comprising polymer fibers and an antimicrobial system. The antimicrobial system comprises a sequestering agent and an agent binding the sequestering agent on surfaces of at least some of the polymer fibers. In some implementations, at least some of the sequestering agent remains on polymer fiber-surfaces after 50 cycles of laundering.

Abstract: Fabric having a fabric body defines a first surface and an opposite second surface, with at least one of the first and second surfaces incorporating fibers having an axial core surrounded by a multiplicity of radially extending, axially-elongated whiskers. The whiskers are separated by axially-extending grooves. The fibers have denier of about 0.3 dpf to about 10.0 dpf. Garments formed of such fabric are also described.

Abstract: A medical health care blanket or fabric, formed of micro-denier fibers, e.g., polyester or other suitable polymer, has at least one raised surface, and incorporates an antimicrobial system having durable antimicrobial properties after at least 50, 100, 150, or even up to 200 industrial laundering cycles. A method of contributing to a sanitary health care environment is also described.