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MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY
TEXTILES, CLOTHING AND REL/7‘ITED RT?
COLLEGE OF HOME ECONOMICS

//éOMPILATION OF THE CONSUMER'S INTERPRETATIONS
OF CARE INFORMATION AS FOUND ON
FOUR LABELED PIECES OF STRETCH FABRE;//

by

Catherine Anne Hartman

//

A PROBLTM

Submitted to
Michigan State University
In partial fulfillment of the requirements
for the degree of

MASTER OF ARTS

Department of Textiles, Clothing and Related Arts

196h

I8?
‘7':

THE

ACKNOW LE'DGMENTS

Many people have contributed help, interest,
suggestions, and encouragement in the development and
execution of this research.

I am grateful to the members of my committee:

Dr. Mary Gephart and Dr. Elinor Nugent; I appreciate
especially the time, interest, and patience given by
the director of this research, Mrs. Stephanie Winkler.

I wish to acknowledge the advice and assistance
of the staff of the Klean King Center, also the cooper-
ation of the women who comprised the sample for this
study.

And finally, I wish to thank my friends for moral

support in this enterprise.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page
(QCMOXB‘LEDGI‘V’ENTS...0............OOQOCCOOOOOOO0......O.‘ 11

LIST OF TABLES........................................ v
LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS.................................vii
CHAPTER

I. INTRODUCTION.................................. 1

Statement of Problem....................... 1
Review of Literature....................... 1
Summary.................................... 12
Focus of Study............................. 13

II. ImTHODOLOHOO......OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO0.0....0... 15

seleCtion or NiethOdOOO....OOOOOOOO0.0...... 15
Choice of Fabric.............. ...... ....... 17
Development of the Instrument.............. 19
The Pretest................................ 21
The Community Setting...................... 22
Selection and Description of Sample........ 23
Method of Analysis......................... 28

III. FIIDFDINGS-eeoeeeeeeeoeeeeeoeeoeeeeooeeoeeeeeeee 29

Experiences in Buying and Caring for .

ClothingOIOOOOOOO000......00.0.0..000. 29
Consumer Care Practices for Four Pieces

of Labeled Stretch Fabrics............ 33
Consistency in Choice of Cleaning Method

for Four Fabrics...................... 43
Selected Cleaning Methods in Relation to

Age and Income........................ “9

IV. SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS, AND RECOMMENDATIONS..... 57
SummaryOIOO00......OOOOOOOOOOCOOOOOOOOOO’OO 57

Conclusions................................ 61
Recommendations............................ 63

iii

TABLE OF CONTLNTS - Continued

. Pa e
BIBLIOGRJAibfiYOIOOOOO‘O.....‘OOOO......OOOOOOOOOOOOOog‘. a

APPENDIX A Samples of Fabrics Used................. 68

Interview Schedule and Background
Information Questionnaire.s.....s... 70

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX C

Experiences with Cleaning New Fabrics... 74

APPENDIX D Inappropriate Cleaning of Fabrics....... 77

APPENDIX E

EXperiences in Caring for Stretch
FabricSOOOOOOOOOOOOIOO......0.00.... 80

iv

LIST OF TABLES

TABLE Page

1. Number and Percentage of Customers Interviewed
at a Laundromat in Each Age Group............... 2

2. Number and Percentage of Customers Interviewed
at a Laundromat at Each Educational Level....... 25

3. Number and Percentage of Husbands of Women
Interviewed at a Laundromat at Each Occupational

Level-IOOIOOOIOOOO0.00IOIOOOOOOOOOOO......OOOOOOO 26

A. Number and Percentage of Women Interviewed at
a Laundromat at Each Occupational Level......... 26

5. Number and Percentage of Women Interviewed at
the Laundromat with Children at Each Age Level.. 27

6. Number and Percentage of Women Interviewed at
a Laundromat in Each Family Income Level........ 27

7. Number and Percentage of Women Acquiring the
Majority of Family Clothing through Gifts,
Purchases, and Hand-me-downs during the Past

Year.0.000000000000COOOOOOOO00.0.00.00.000000... 30

8. Number and Percentage of Women Utilizing Each
Cleaning Practice for Four Fabrics.............. 3h

9. Number and Percentage of Women Utilizing Each
Water Temperature for Four Fabrics.............. 36

10. Number and Percentage of Women Utilizing Each
Type of Cleaning Agent for Four Fabrics......... 37

11. Number and Percentage of Women Who Would or F
Would Not Use Fabric Softeners for Four Fabrics. 39

12. Number and Percentage of Women Utilizing Each
Drying Practice for Four Fabrics................

in
\o

13. Number and Percentage of Women Utilizing Each
Pressing Practice for Four Fabrics.............. ”1

LIST OF TABLES - Continued

TABLE
11;.

15.

16.

17.

18.

19.

20.

21.

22.

230

25.

26.

27.

28.

Page
Number and Percentage of Women Indicating
Each Iron Temperature for Four Fabrics.......... 42

Percentage of Respondents Who Showed Consistency
of Cleaning Procedure in Relation to Method..... “A

Percentage of Respondents Who Showed Consistency
in Choice of Cleaning Agent for the Fabrics They
\Ilould WBShOOOOOOO‘OAOebeeeeedeedede‘eeeeoeeoeoeo “LL

Percentage of Respondents Who Showed Consistency
in Decision to Use Fabric Softeners for Fabrics
They YVOUId Wash.....................bb.étd£...oo 45

Percentage of Reapondents Who Showed Consistency
in Drying Technique for Fabrics That Were Washed 46

Percentage of Respondents Who Showed Consistency
of Pressing Procedure in Relation to Method..... 47

Percentage of Respondents Who Showed Consistency
by Indicating a Specific Pressing Temperature
in Relation to Pressing Temperature............. “8

Summary by Rank Order of Consistency and
Variability by Percentage of Interviewees, and
information Available on the Label.............. “3

\

Percentage of Respondents in Each Age Group '
Compared with Cleaning Practices for Four Fabrics5i

Percentage of Respondents Who Showed Consistency
of Cleaning Procedure in Relation to Age........ 51

Number and Percentage of Respondents in Each
Income Category Compared with Cleaning Practices
for Four Fabrics00OOOOOOOOOOIOOOOOOOO0.000...... 52

Percentage of Respondents Who Showed Consistency
of Pressing Procedure in Relation to Age........ 53

Percentage of Respondents Who Showed Consistency
by Indicating a Specific Pressing Temperature in
Relation to ARBOOOOOOOOOOOOOIOOO0.00.00.00.00... 53

Percentage of Respondents in Each Age Group
Compared with Pressing Practices for Four Fabrics55

Percentage of Respondents in Each Age Group
Compared with Indication of Pressing Temperature
for P’our Fabr1c8000000IOOOOOOOOOOOOOCCOOOOI.00".

1rd

LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS

FIGURE Page

1. Percentage Distribution of Family Purchasing
Habits for Fifty Women in a Lauhdromat......... 30

vii

CIAPTER I

INTRODUCTION

Statement of the Problem

The purpose and major objective of this problem are
to determine how the consumer interprets care information
presented with selected stretch fabrics. The investigation
will test consumer interpretation of care factors in hypothe-
tical situations and self-reported past experiences. In this
study, care will be limited to the process of cleaning the
fabrics, specifically: method of cleaning, water temperature,
type of detergent, use of water softener, drying technique,
and pressing technique. Interpretation is defined as the
expression of the person's conception of the labeled fabric.

The writer hopes that this study will contribute toward
curriculum development and instruction in home economics, as
well as point out the continuing need for communication among

the textile industry, the home economist, and the consumer.

Review of the Literature

Relatively little research has been conducted on home-
makers' interpretations of caring for new fabrics on the
market. This review of books, periodicals, bulletins, and

1

2

theses relates to the following aspects of the researcher's
investigation: (1) the adequacy of labeling: (2) consumer
awareness and use of labels; (3) consumer interpretation of
care instruction; and (h) care properties of four stretch
fabrics available on the market..

The Adequacy of Labeligg: The interpretation and mean-
ingfulness of textile terms has been of concern to home
economists. There is reason for concern.because the effective-
ness and value of promotional and educational materials depend
on common interpretation and understanding of the terminology.
The accuracy of some responses to certain research question-
naires and interviews also depends upon common interpretation
and understanding of words used. The matter has become
increasingly important because new developments are constantly
appearing and it is almost impossible for the home economist
and the consumer to be completely and currently informed.

Today, the textile industry offers the consumer wide
choices in beauty, variety, and serviceability as a result
of recent developments. An increasing number of manrmade
materials with new surface effects have been appearing on the
consumer market. Well-known natural fibers have been modified
to alter chemical and physical properties as well as appearance.
Thus, knowledge obtained through consumer education is probably

more necessary today than ever before.

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3
Because of the large number of items which are packaged
and the numerous characteristics which are not recognizable
even when the article can be examined, labels are potentially
a most important source of information to the consumer.1 Any
written or printed information attached in any manner to the

fabric at the time of the sale may be defined as a label.2

Wingate3 defines a label as informative when written in a
simple, easy-to-grasp, understandable form, giving the inherent
qualities of the merchandise. An informative label should

give the consumer a definite idea of the quality of the product
by listing composition and construction, performance, uses,

h

and care. This basis for intelligent choice enables the

consumer to compare the qualities of textile products.
In the book, "Consumer Economics, Principles and ProblemsN‘
Wilhelm and Heimerl state:

"What an article is made of determines to a large extent
what it will do as well as how it should be laundered, ironed,
and otherwise cared for; therefore, it is essential to know
the fiber content. Making this knowledge available to the
buyer is the main objective of government regulations.
Consequently, labeling textiles and garments to show what
they are made of is mandatory."

 

lIrma H. Gross and Elizabeth Walbert Crandall, Management
for Modern Families (2d ed.; New York: Appleton-Century-Crofts,

1963)! p. 13;;

2Jessie V. Coles, Standards and Labels for Consumer
Goods (New Ybrk: The Ronald Press Company, lqh9), p. 56.

3Isabel B. Wingate, Textile Fabrics and Their Selection
(New Jersey: Prentice-Hall, Inc., 196h), pp. 11-12.

“Roger Lolcott, Informative Labeling (New York: National
Consumer-Retailer Council, Inc., 19hl), p. 1h.

 

5Fred Wilhelm and Ramon Heimerl, Consumer Economics,
Principles and Problems (2d ed.; New York: McGraw-Hill Book
CO.’ Inc., 1956), p. 203.

 

13.

Effective labeling is the responsibility of manu-
facturers, retailers, and consumers.6 Consumer protection
through effective labeling has been attempted and provided
to a certain extent through legislation. In 1939, the
Wool Products Labeling Act was designed "to protect producers,
manufacturers, distributers, and consumers from the unrevealed
presence of substitutes and mixtures in spun, woven, knitted,
felted or otherwise manufactured wool products. . ."7 The
Fur Products Labeling Act also provides consumer protection
against "misbranding, false advertising, and false invoicing

8

of fur products and furs."
In 1958, the Eighty-second Congress passed the Textile
Fiber Products Identification act. It serves "to protect
producers and consumers against misbranding and false adver-
tising of fiber content of textile fiber products. . ."9 The
textile label must be affixed visably to the product and must
state plainly: (l) "the designation with equal prominence
of each natural and manufactured fiber in the textile fiber

product by its generic name in the order of predominance by

 

6Phyllis Drake and Mary Anna Grimes, Lgbgliggof Readye
made Street Dresses (Texas Agricultural Station, Bulletin 9H3,
November, 1959), p. 2

 

7U.S., Statutes at Large, LIV, Part 1, p. 1128.

8U.S., Statutes at Large, LXV, p. 175.

9U.S., Statutes at Large, LXXII, Part 1, p. 1717.

5

weight; (2) the percentage of each fiber by weight exclusive
of ornament and those not exceeding five per cent of the total
weight; (3) the manufacturer's name or other identification
issued and registered by the Federal Trade Commission; and

(h) if the textile fiber is imported the name of the country

where it was processed or manufactured."lo

McBride, in a 1953 investigation, suggests that if
consumers are to evaluate the relative merits of available
fabrics and garments, without an excessive expenditure of
time and money, they need adequate statements of fact about
the quality and performance of such items. McBride also
disclosed that these women did not read labels carefully
although three-fourths of them understood the meaning of
various textile terms. This observation indicates that con-
sumers could use such information if it appeared on the
label.11

In 1956-57, Drake and Grimes found very little informa-
tive labeling concerning care on ready-made street dresses
in Dallas and four smaller cities. Less than one-half of
the dresses contained instructions to wash or dry clean
although 82 per cent of the women indicated that this infor-
mation was helpful to them. Only one-fourth of the dresses

that could be laundered had washing instructions; two-thirds

 

1oIbid., pp. 1719-1720.

11Betty L. McBride, "Informative Labeling and Advertis-
ing of Ready-to-wear Garments" (Unpublished M.A. Thesis,
Library, University of Chicago, 1953).

6

of the women found these instructions helpful.12

The adequacy of labels on women's garments made from
synthetic, natural, or mixed fibers was examined by Abell in
1957. The study suggests that more satisfactory service
from any textile product results when the fabric or product
is used as intended, and is cared for according to the manu-
facturer's directions. Research was limited to care informa-
tion on labels accompanying slips, foundation garments, blouses,
dresses, and suits. The labels on 520 garments were analyzed;
187 labels provided laundering directions, 1h gave instructions
for pressing, and 38 recommended dry cleaning. Care instruc-
tions were weakened by the lack of uniformity in laundering
information, and the vague terms used which passed for launder-
ing information.13

Awareness and Utilization of Labels: Good shopping
techniques depend not only on adequate labeling of merchandise,
but also on the consumers' awareness and utilization of that
information.

A study by Myers in 195A indicated that consumer induced
failures on garments are largely traceable to (1) poor laun-
dering, (2) antiperspirants and deodorants, and (3) accidents.
Poor laundering accounted for a large percentage of the

mechanical damage, as well as color and shrinkage failure.

 

12Drake and Crimes, op. cit., p. A.

13Marion A. Abell, "A Study of the Adequacy of Labels
on Women's Garments Made from Synthetic, Natural, or Mixed
Fibers" (Unpublished M.S. Thesis, Edwin Watts Chubb Library,
Ohio University, 1957).

7

According to laboratory test reports on consumer returned
merchandise, many failures classified as accidental care are
traceable to improper laundering. Myers suggested that a
labeling program should not only describe qualitative fea-
tures of a garment but also provide accurate information
concerning its care and most effective use.lu

iary L. Brown in 1959, indicated that 56 per cent of
the women interviewed in Boone and Boone County, Iowa, were
satisfied with the present blouse labeling; the other women
interviewed stated varying degrees of satisfaction. Informa-
tion which was rated high in importance by the consumer in-
cluded dry cleaning or washing instructions, name of fiber,
shrinkage control, and colorfastness to washing.15

Research concerning consumer satisfaction with women's
blouses was published by the Agricultural Experiment Station
at the University of Rhode Island. Over half the consumers
reporting care instructions on their blouses stated that they
followed them; over one-third of the women interviewees said
that they did not follow them. Principle reasons stated for
not following recommended care instructions were: "Know how
without labels because of previous experience"; "Easier or

takes less time to do my way"; "Prefer not to wash"; and,

 

1LISamuel L. Myers, "Textile and Apparel Testing and
Lagfiling" Harvard Studies in Marketing Farm Products No. 5-H,
19 .

15Mary L. Brown, "Labeling Preferences of Consumers

of Blouses" (Unpublished M.S. Thesis, Ames, Iowa Library,
Iowa State University of Science and Technology, 1959).

8

"Didn't know what the label said."16

Consumers want to know whether garments can be washed
or dry cleaned. According to Drake and Grimes, 82 per cent
of the women interviewed found this information on labels
helpful. Some women preferred to dry clean all dresses with
perhaps the exception of everyday cottons: Many of the women
stated that they would home launder dresses that retained an
attractive appearance with reasonably careful treatment.

Sixty-seven per cent of the women used the instructions
for laundering although the labels did not always give complete
information. The instructions may have included directions
to machine or hand wash, how to drip dry, use of bleach,
whether to machine dry, whether to avoid wringing or twisting,
temperature of water, kind of detergent to use, directions
for pressing with steam or dry iron, and ironing temperature
to use.17

Taber made a study of the clothing and buying habits
and preferences of home economics students. Washing and
ironing instructions were looked for most often by 107 students
answering the questionnaire; 97 students said that they read

labels on outer garments under consideration for purchasing.

Twenty-five per cent of the students said they always understood

 

16Consumer Satisfaction with Women's Blouses (I - Labor-
atorygwezr Studies, Rhode Island Agr. Exp. Sta. Bul. 3&2: 1958),
pp. 3 -3 .

17Drake and Grimes, op. cit., p. 5.

are.

to.

s

9
the information and 75 per cent sometimes did.18
Interpretations of Cleaning Instructions: A 1961 study
by Muscetti was concerned with the interpretation of washing
instructions on labels of winter skirts. No matter what
the manufacturer's instructions for washing included, the
homemakers gave most of their attention to the fiber content
of the skirts they were evaluating. Homemakers were more
willing to wash a skirt that consisted of all man-made fibers
or one that contained a high percentage of man-made fiber.
On the other hand, these homemakers generally preferred to
have all wool, or skirts with a high percentage of wool, dry
cleaned. This reaction of homemakers indicated that, in
general, the respondents had some knowledge of the washability
characteristics of man-made fibers. These responses would
also tend to indicate that homemakers are not familiar with
100 per cent wool fabrics that have been chemically treated
to insure dimensional stability. Muscetti also indicated
that appearance was more important to the consumer than
washability; there was no significant difference from upper
and lower occupational categories in the relevant importance

of appearance and care.19

 

18Bennela D. Taber, “A Study of the Clothing Buying
Habits and Preferences of the Home Economics High School
Student" (Unpublished M.A. Thesis, Library, University of
Rhode Island, 1960).

1c)Kathleen Marie Muscetti, "Homemakers Interpretation
of Washing Instructions on Labels of Winter Skirts" (Unpub-
lished M.S. Thesis, Ames, Iowa Library, Iowa State University
of Science and Technology, 1961).

10

Care Properties of Four Stretch Fabrics Available on
the Market: The review of literature thus far has been
concerned with the adequacy, awareness and use, as well as
interpretation of the information found on labels. There
has been with the introduction of the new element of stretch,
a need for labels for consumer information regarding care
and properties of stretch fabrics. The main theme of the
Textile Salesmen's Association meeting in New York City was:
"Are you Ready for Stretch?“ E. R. Dwelle, supervisor of
apparel merchandising Chemstrand Co. stated:

"The industry must admit to the great need of education
at the consumer and retail level - not only what you can
expect frgg stretch - but what you cannot expect from
stretch.

One of the means by which stretch is produced in fabrics
is slack mercerization. This process is used to produce
stretch in the filling direction for 100 per cent cotton
fabrics. Generally, cotton may be machine washed and dried,21
and no special precautions in ironing are necessary.22 Lab-
oratory studies show that the process of slack mercerization

does affect the launderability qualities of cotton. The

results point toward a need for improved dimensional stability

 

20"Are You Ready for Stretch?," Modern Textiles, XLV
(July. 196A). p. 25~6.

21American Home Economics Association, Textile Handbook
(Washington, D.C.: American Home Economics Association, 19537,
front inside cover.

 

22Norma Hollen and Jane Saddler, Textiles (2d. ed.;
Nei York: The Macmillan Co., 1964), p. 3

9..-

VA

 

(J

 

11

after repeated laundering.23 If the fabrics are stabilized

by resin treatment or compressive shrinkage, laundering will
have less effect on stretch properties.2h There is an

increased harshness of some slack mercerized products that

may be overcome by the use of softeners. Permanent or durable
softeners are a need for the future success of stretch cotton.25
Slack mercerization causes some wash-and-wear properties, but

26

to obtain a rating higher than four, the application of

wash-wear cross-linking agents is necessary.27’ 28
A stretch denim fabric is available in 75 per cent
cotton (warp direction) and 25 per cent nylon (filling
direction). Launderability of this fabric is affected by the
presence of the thermoplastic yarns: nylon. Therefore, care
in temperature selection should be followed because nylon is

heat sensitive. Following temperature precautions, the fabric

may be machine washed and dried. A warm iron is recommended

 

23C. H. Fisher, "Stretch Cottons: Their Properties and
Their Promise," Modern Textile Magazine, ALIV (March, 1963),

pp. hS-A7.

2Apillian G. Sloan, Milton J. Hoffman, Helen M. Robin-

son, Harry B. MOore, and Albert S. Cooper, Jr., "Stretchable
Cotton Fabrics - Properties and Processing Techniques,"
American Dyestuff Reporter, LII (May 27, 1963), pp. h12-h18.

25Fisher, loc. cit.

26A five point scale is utilized, five being the best
rating in terms of appearance after washing.

27Fisher, loc. cit.

28William G. Sloan, Alton L. Murphy, Milton J. Hoffman,
Harry B. Moore, and Albert 3. Cooper, Jr., "Cotton Stretch
Fabrics by Slack Mercerization: Part 1, The Effects of Yarn
and Fabric Construction," Textile Research Journal, XAXIII
(March, 1963), pp. 191-198.

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for touch up ironing.29

One of the lengthwise stretch fabrics available is 70
per cent rayon and 30 per cent DuPont stretch nylon. Because
of the greater percentage of rayon, this fabric should be dry
cleaned. According to the "Textile Handbook," published by
the American Home Economics Association, rayon can be laundered
although it has a tendency to shrink. Rayon does not withstand
the same care treatment that can be given cotton or linen. The
nylon content of this fabric introduces heat sensitivity and
should be pressed only with a cool iron.30

A fourth type of stretch product is composed of 60 per
cent Dacron polyester, 32 per cent cotton, and 8 per cent
Lycra spandex. This fabric may be either washed or dry cleaned.
When washing, warm water should be used allowing fabric to
drip dry or dry in a dryer on 'warm.‘ High temperature and
stretching should be avoided. The synthetic setting (or
slightly higher) of the iron would be satisfactory for press-

ing.31

Summary

Very little research attention has been given to the

investigation of consumer interpretations concerning care

 

29American Home Economics Association, op. cit., back
cover.

3°;2;g., front and back covers.

31E. I. Du Pont De Nemours & Co., Inc., Textile Fibers

Dept., Tips for Home Sewing; Stretch, Woypn Fabric of "Dacron,“
Cotton, and Lycra‘I (New York: American Thread CompanyT.

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I

arr
-

13
information on new textile products. The label issue has
been a subject of much research and legislation, and according
to McBride, both labels and advertising are more informative
today than they were in the 1930's.32 Even so, few groups
are satisfied with current labeling practices. The problem
of what information should be provided on textile labels

remains unsolved.
Focus of the Study

Based on the reported research, there is a need for
continued study in the area of consumer interpretations of
label information. The purpose of this study is to determine
how the consumer interprets information presented on the
relatively new stretch fabrics. Consumer's experience with
stretch fabric may be limited, however answers will reflect
previous experiences in reading labels and caring for other
fabrics.

The specific assumptiauzand objective guiding this
study are as follows:

Assumptions:

1. The consumer in this study can Speak and read

English.

2. The majority of the consumers look at textile

labels either in the process of buying or using

the textile product.

 

32McBride, loc. cit.

 

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1h

3. Labels are informative and provide a service to the
consumer.

Objective:

1. To determine the consumers' interpretations of care
information as found on four labeled pieces of

stretch fabric.

CHAPTER II
METHODOLOGY

Because a very limited amount of data has been recorded
concerning consumers' interpretations of care information,
a large part of this study will be exploratory in nature.

This chapter includes a discussion of (1) selection
of method, (2) selection of fabrics, (3) development of the
instrument, (h) pretest, (5) the community setting, (6) selec-
tion and description of sample, (7) administration of instru-

ment, and (8) method of analysis.
Selection of Method

Consumers were carefully studied in formulating the
research method to be used in this study. Availability of
time and creating an atmosphere for willingness to take part
were seriously considered in selecting the technique that
would yield the best response.

Data procurement devices used by researchers in similar
studies were analyzed. After careful study, particularly of
the Steinhoff instrument,1 a combination of interview and

questionnaire was chosen.

 

1Jeanne Joubert Steinhoff, "A Study of Consumer Awareness
and Utilization of Garment Labels" (Unpublished M.A. Problem,
Department of Textiles and Clothing Library, Michigan State
University, 1963).

15

16

Data concerning care of stretch fabrics, past exper-
iences in care of fabrics, and buying practices was collected
by interviewing. One of the advantages of the interview
method is that it can be used on almost all segments of the
population.2 In fact, in contrast to the questionnaire, a
frequent problem in interviewing is that of limiting the
reaponses of the verbose individual.

Surveys conducted by personal interview have an addi-
tional advantage over questionnaires in that they usually

yield a much better sample of the general population.3

Many
people are willing and able to cooperate in a study when all
they have to do is talk.

Another advantage of the interview is its flexibility.h
In an interview there is the possibility of repeating or
rephrasing questions to make sure that they are understood,
or of asking further questions in order to clarify the
meaning of a response. Its flexibility makes the interview
a superior technique for the exploration of areas where

there is little basis for knowing either what question to ask

or how to formulate them.

 

ZClaire Sellitz, Marie Jahoda, Morton Deutsch, Stuart w.
Cook, Research Methodsgin Social Relations (New York: Holt,
Rhinehart, Winston, 1963Y: p. Zul.

31bid.

thid.

17

The interviewer is in a position to observe not only
what the respondent says but also how he or she says it.

The interviewer can, if she wishes, follow up contradictory
statements. If need be, the interviewer can directly chal-
lenge the subject's report in order to see how consistent
the answers will be.

A heavy reliance is placed on the subject's verbal
report for information about the experiences she has had and
for the knowledge of her behavior.5 Usually the investigator
has not obServed the events discussedt

Because some interviewees might be reluctant to openly
report personal data concerning their education, occupation,
and income, this information was obtained through a one page
background questionnaire presented at the end of the interview.

Utilization of stretch fabrics added a note of interest
in obtaining the interviewees' attention and cooperation

throughout the study.
Choice of Fabrics

Fabrics with which the interviewees had had little
experience were chosen for the study.6 The consumers' answers
would then.reflect previous experience in reading labels and

caring for other fabrics.

 

51b1d.
6

 

See Appendix A for samples of fabrics: p. 68.

18

Woven stretch fabrics suitable for outer garments
were chosen for the study, not only because they were new,
but also because there were recommended ways to care for
them depending on fiber content, finishes, and the property
of stretch.

Fabric A, a red vertical stretch material, was composed
of 70 per cent rayon and 30 per cent DuPont stretch nylon.

The label from the bolt presented the following information:

 

6

 

70% Rayon 30% DuPont Stretch Nylon
Crease Resistant

Dry Clean

 

 

 

The fiber content of Fabric B, a red stretch denim,
was 75 per cent cotton (warp direction) and 25 per cent nylon
(filling direction). The following label information was

presented with the fabric:

 

Welcome to

 

crossway stretch

Wash and Wear- Wash

Same as Cottons- Avoid

Chlorine Bleaches- Drip

Dry on Rust Proof Hang-

ers. Touch up with harm
Iron as Desired.

Fabric: 75% Cotton, 25%
Nylon

 

 

 

 

6

A trade name was provided on the fabric.

7A trade name was provided on the fabric.

19
Fabric C, a predominantly blue plaid, was 100 per
cent cotton. The label attached to the fabric included the

following information:

 

H-O-R-I-Z-O-N-T-A-L S—T-R-E-T-C-H

Fashion's newest ingredient, built into 100% combed cotton to
create a revolutionary new fabric. There‘s great givrn take-
it moves in the direction you move; stretches around for action
with complete ease of fit. Made for give, 393 for the pulled
look. Continues to retain its shape.

wNeeds little or no ironing *Wrinkle resistant
whashfast colors wNeeds no starch

 

flachine or hand wash. Drip or tumble dry. Do not use bleach.

8

 

 

 

Fabric D was a solid light blue hue and composed of
60 per cent Dacron polyester, 32 per cent cotton, and 8 per
cent Lycra-spandex. The following information was taken

from the bolt:

 

60% Dacron Polyester
32% Cotton
8% Lycra-Spandex

hash or Dry Clean

 

 

 

Development of the Instrument

Although constructed to focus on care for a new product,
the interview-questionnaire was divided into four parts to
gain the necessary information. The parts were: (1) per-

sonal background of the consumer; (2) consumers' interpretations

 

8A trade name was provided on the fabric.

20
on care from given information on the stretch fabrics; (3)
consumers' past experiences with caring for fabrics; and
(h) consumers' experience in purchasing clothing.
Preliminary interviewing gave the researcher some skill
in directing the responses of the subjects. Attention was
given to broadening and limiting responses as well as

restricting the possibility of influencing responses.

Reliability

The reliability of any test refers to and depends on
the extent to which repeated administrations to the sample
population will yield the same results. The reliability of
the instrument was not determined. Genuine change would be
possible in the time lapse between two administrations of
the instrument. Personal experiences and consumer education
could affect the answers of a later test using the same

fabrics.

Validity

The validity of an instrument refers to and depends
on "the degree to which a measurement procedure measures
what it purports to measure."9 As a result of the pretest,
the test was assumed to be valid. The assumption was based

on the fact that in the pretest and in the development of

 

9Marie Jahoda, Morton Deutsch, and Stuart W. Cook,
Research Methods in Social Relations (New York: The Dryden
Press, IQSTY) P. 109.

21

of the instrument, a number of women were interviewed to
determine whether or not the interpretation of the questions
by the reapondents was the same as that which was intended by
theresearcher. The interview was modified to convey the
intended interpretations. The responses obtained from the

pretest were similar to those of the final instrument.

The Protest

The pretest was conducted at a Lansing, Michigan
laundromat near the East Lansing City Limits. Consumers
who met the requirements of the study were asked to parti-
cipate. Eight women were interviewed. These women proved
to be ideal for the pretest and were later included in the
final population sample.

The purposes of the pretest were to provide a base
of experience for the researcher, to test the interview-
questionnaire technique in the laundromat atmOSphere, and
to see whether or not the length of the interview was within
the time span available to a laundromat customer.

When a logical moment in the washing cycle had arrived,
the consumer was asked to take part in the study. The inter-
viewees looked at the fabrics and told how they would care
for them. Prior to the actual interview, the researcher
made introductory remarks such as the following:

Would you like to look at these fabrics? (pause) How

would you care for garments made of these fabrics if they
were a part of your wardrobe?

22

The woman's answers were recorded by the researcher
on a pro-coded check sheet during the interview. At the end
of the interview, the reapondent was asked to fill out a
personal background sheet.11

The length of the interview for the pretest ranged from
ten to fifteen minutes, which did not seem to interfere with
washing schedules. As a result of the pretest, two questions

12 The remainder of the instrument for data

were omitted.
collection and the interview technique proved to be satis-

factory for the research requirements.
The Community Setting

The community from which the sample was derived is
Lansing-East Lansing, Michigan. The community is atypical
in many respects. Michigan State University affects a large
segment of the East Lansing population in relation to such
elements as age, mobility, occupation, and income. Lansing,
the capital of Michigan, is the fourth largest city in the
state. The major employers of Lansing are the State of
Michigan, and Oldsmobile-Fisher Body Division of General
Motors Industry. In East Lansing, Michigan State University

is the major employer.

 

11See Appendix B for interview-questionnaire schedule: 9. 70.

12Inspection of the results seemed to indicate questions
concerning bleach and starch for the test fabrics could be
eliminated without adverse effects on the study. These revi-
sions narrowed and helped focus the study.

23

In 1960, persons of age twenty-five and over of East
Lansing had a median 15.8 years of schooling compared to
11.9 years forche City of Lansing. The median age of the
East Lansing residents was 22.2 years, whereas 28.9 was
the median age in Lansing. Fifty-four and eight-tenths per
cent of the population moved into their present homes in
East Lansing after 1958; 31.h per cent of the Lansing residents
have moved into their homes after 1958. The average effective
buyigg ingomg 992.902399919 in East Lansing, excluding students,
is $13,176 and in Lansing is $7,652.13

It can be seen from the statistical information above,
that the two cities vary greatly, and that at least some of
these factors migit affect the sample.

Selection and Description of Sample

The respondent in this study was restricted to females
who cared for clothing in their families. All of the women
had to be able to read and speak English in order to under-
stand the interview and fill out the background questionnaire.

The Sample

 

The sample was obtained from customers at a laundromat
within a period of one week. The researcher interviewed at
different times during the day and evening in order to take

as diversified a sample of the laundromat's population as

Possible. An attempt was made to approach all of the

 

13Statistics available at the Chamber of Commerce of
Greater Lansing.

2“
customers although at busy times this was impossible.
The description of the fifty women comprising the sample
includes: age, education level, husband's occupation, own

occupation, age of children, and family income.

Age of sample.- Table 1 shows the distribution of the
sample according to age. The sample varied and was in keeping
with the figures available for Lansing and Bast Lansing. The
largest percentage (to per cent) of women were under the age
of twenty-five.

TABLE l.--Number and percentage of customers interviewed at
a laundromat in each age group

--‘

 

 

 

Age group Number Percentage
Under 25 years 20 to
25-h0 years 17 3h
hl years and over 13 26
Totals 50 ' 100

 

Education level.- Educational background of the sample

 

is described in Table 2. The sample was diversified, the
largest groups being high school (32 per cent) and college
graduates (30 per cent). The sample seemed to represent both

Lansing and East Lansing.

25
College majors included elementary Education (h),
Home economics (h), Mathematics, music, Nursing, English-
Science, Education, Humanities, and Lnglish Studies.

TABLE 2.--Number and percentage of customers interviewed at
a laundromat at each educational level

 

 

 

Educational level Number Percentage
Less than M years 11 22
of high school
High school graduate 16 32
Vocational school,
business college, A 8
completed
Junior college, part of
college completed h 8
College completed 15 30
Totals 50 100

 

Occupations of husbands.- Occupations oi the husbands

 

varied although the largest groups were professional (16 per
cent), skilled workers (16 per cent), and students (16 per cent),
as shown in Table 3.

Occupations of interviewees.- Fifty per cent of the‘

 

women interviewed were employed in various occupations (see
Table h). The remaining women were unemployed dependents,

retired, students, or housewives.

26

TABLE .--Nunber and percentage of hquands of women interviewed
at a laundromat at each occupation level

3
L

 

 

 

 

Occupation level Number Percentage
General worker 4 8
Office worker 2 4
Small business 3 5
Professional 8 15
Salesman l 2
Skilled worker 8 15
Student 8 16
Totalsa 34 68

 

o I Q 0 _P .1
“Some of tne women were not married; several 01 tne women's
husbands were retired.

 

TABLE 4.--Number and percentage of women interviewed at a
laundromat at each occupational level

 

 

 

 

Occupation level Number Percentage
General worker 7 14
Office worker 9 18
Small business 1 2
Professional 6 12
S“leswoman l 2
Skilled worker 1 2
Totals: ‘ 25 50

 

C"Fiity per cent of the women were not employed.

 

27
Age of children.- In Table 5, the distribution of the
sample bv the age of children is tabulated. Forty-eight per
cent of the women had children.

TABLJ S.--Number and percentage of women interviewed at the
laundromat with children at each age level

 

—_—

 

 

 

Age level of children Number Percentage

None 26 52

Preschool, kindergarten 16 32
through grade six

7th grade and above 10 20

Totalsa 52 1Q4

 

aTwo women had children in both age groups.

 

Family income.- Amount of family income varied, although
a diSproportionate amount fell between w3,000 and w79h99-

Categories were based on the average family income (see Table 6)

TABLE 6.~~Number and percentage of women interviewed at a
laundromat in each family income level

 

 

 

 

Family income level Number Percentage
Below ”3,000 6 12
.3,ooo-r7.h99 22 an
7,500-w9.999 7 1h
W10,ooo-vlh,999 10 20
Above g15,000 l 2
Totals: 27 #55

a.

 

aFour women preferred not to answer the question.

 

23

Method of Analysis

Tabulation was done entirely by hand. In order to
describe the data, the researcher wishes to (1) characterize
care practices typical of the group, (2) indicate how widely
the groups vary in terms of care practices, and (3) Point
out some possible relationships among the different variables
in the data.

Whenever possible, percentage comparisons are made.

In some cases, the number of responses was insufficient for
accurate comparison. In these cases numerical summarization

was used. All questions were analyzed.

CH’PTJR III
FINDINGD

The findings of this problem are grouped into four
sections: (1) experiences in buying and caring for clothing,
(2) consumer care practices for four pieces of labeled stretch
fabric, (3) consistency in choice of cleaning method for four
fabrics, and (A) selected cleaning methods in relation to age

and income.
Experiences in Buying and Caring for Clothing

An analysis of reported experiences in buying and caring
for clothing will be the focus of this section. Each member of
the sample was asked five questions. (1) Who purchases most of
the clothing in your family? (2) How has most of your family's
clothing been obtained during the past year? (3) Have you had
any experience in cleaning "new" fabrics? (h) Have you ever
washed a garment and later wished you had dry cleaned it? and
(5) What experiences have you had taking care of stretch fabrics?
Who purchases most of the clothing in_your family?-The percent-
age distribution of family clothing purchase habits is shown
in Figure l. Sixty per cent of the women purchased the clothing
for their families, and 28 per cent purchased clothing for
themselves. Four per cent of the interviewees purchased

29

30
clothing with other members of their families, and in one

case, the husband purchased all of the clothing.

FIGURE 1.--Percentage distribution of family purchasing
habits for fifty women in a laundromat

 

 

Family member

 

 

 

Other :Zj

Both :3

Husband 3

hife J
Self V]

 

 

 

o 10 20 30 no so 60 7o 80 90 100
Percentage

How has most of your family's clothing been obtained during the
past year?-Clothing obtained during the past year by the reapon-

 

dents and their families was classified into three groups:
(1) gifts, (2) family purchases, and (3) hand-me-downs. Table 7

shows how family clothing for this sample was acquired.

TABLE 7.--Number and percentage of women acquiring the majority
.of family clothing through gifts, purchases, and hand-me-downs
during the past year

 

 

 

 

Family member's Gift Purchase Hand-me-down

clothing No. $ No. _% No. %
Children's clothing 2 9 20 91 -- --
Men's clothing -- -- 3L 100 -- --

homen's clothing —— -- 50 100 -- --

 

31

The majority of clothing for men, women, and children
was purchased by the family unit. Gifts accounted for "part"
of the clothing for men, women and children. Four children
received a part of their clothing through hand-me-downs, and
one interviewee stated that a small part of her clothing was
obtained through hand-me-downs.

Based on the data from the first two questions, the
specific population interviewed has had experience in purchasing
clothing. The families obtain most of their clothing through
purchase, and the reapondents do most of the buying.

Have you had any experience cleaning "new" fabrics?- The word
"new" may have had different connotations to the consumers.
(i.e. the word "new" may be used to describe all fabrics except
cotton, wool, and silk; or, "new" may mean the fabrics, finishes)
etc. presented to the market within the last five years).

The respondents were asked what experience they had had
in cleaning "new" fabrics. Fifty-two per cent described various
experiences concerning the cleaning of "new" fabrics; #2 per
cent stated they had no experience with "new" fabrics; while
six per cent stated they had little experience in caring for
"new" fabrics.

Appendix C, p. 74, contains a list of reaponses which the
interviewees used to describe as "new" fibers or fabrics. In
addition the appendix includes the respondent's descriptionsxxf
care of the fabric, problems in care, and whether they expressed

approval or disapproval of the fabric.

32

Havegyou ever washed a garment and later wishednypu had dry

 

cleaned it?- Replying to this question, 58 per cent of the con—
sumers said "Yes!" while #2 per cent said "No." One-third of
the respondents who gave the negative reply added that they

dry cleaned when in doubt. Several of the women stated that
they had dry cleaned garments that they wished they had washed.
Appendix D, p. 77, contains a description by the reapondents

of problem fabrics or garments, the care given them, the results
of the care, and remedies. Change in shape and color, loss of
finish, raveling, and pressing problems were most often
mentioned.

What experience have you had in caring for stretch fabriggfi-

The consumers were asked what experiences they had had in caring
for stretch fabrics. Thirtybeight per cent had no experience
with stretch garments. A wide range of descriptions of fabrics,
garments, and care practices was stated by the remainder of the
respondents. Only 30 per cent of the sample could describe the
stretch fabric which they had encountered, while the remain-

ing 32 per cent described stretch garments which they possessed.
The fabric with which they had the most experience was stretch
denim, and the garments most often mentioned were pants or
slacks. Appendix E, p. 80, contains a description of experiences
women had with stretch fabrics. The answers were divided into
four areas: the garment or fabric, care given, problems of care,
and an expression or approval or disapproval of the fabric.

The last three questions have dealt with the experiences

33
the respondent has had in cleaning fabrics. Approximately
half of the women described unfortunate incidents in cleaning.
Also, nearly half of the women referred to examples in cleaning
"new“ fabrics. Almost two-thirds of the sample described
experiences with stretch fabrics mostly consisting of winter
stretch garments, such as ski pants.
Consumer Care Practices for Four Pieces of Labeled Stretch
Fabrics

Findings related to care of the four fabrics were divided
into the following groups: (1) cleaning practices, (2) water
temperature, (3) type of cleaning agent, (h) use of fabric
softener, (5) drying practices, and (6) pressing practices.
Cleaning practices.- The number and percentage of women utiliz-
ing each cleaning practice for the four fabrics is described
in Table 8.

According to the label on Fabric A, dry cleaning was
the advised procedure. Eighty per cent of the respondents
said they would dry clean the fabric; lb per cent, wash the
fabric by hand; and six per cent, wash by machine. Past exper-
iences, personal resources, appearance, and the label directions
may have influenced over three-fourths of the consumers to make
the correct choice.

The label on Fabric B recommended washing the same as
cotton. Machine washing was chosen as the method used for clean-
ing this fabric by 50 per cent of the sample, hand washing by
30 per cent, and dry cleaning by 20 per cent. The fact that
cottons may be cared for in different ways is reflected by the

choices of the consumers for Fabric B.

3“

Machine or hand wash were the directions on Fabric C.
Forty-six per cent of the women recommended washing by hand.
Thirty-six per cent preferred to machine wash Fabric C, while
18 per cent would dry clean it. Consumers might be influenced
by their past eXperiences with denim, as well as the appearance
and label of the fabric.

Directions on the label of Fabric D read wash or dry
clean. The interviewees recommended the following care
practices: dry cleaning, 38 per cent; hand wash, 3h per cent;
and machine wash, 28 per cent. Since there was no wrong
choice possible, it might be expected that the consumers would
base their choices on appearance, past experience, and their
resources.

In the majority of cases, the consumer's choices of
cleaning practices for all fabrics were similar to those given
on the labels.

TABLE 8.--Number and percentage of women utilizing each cleaning
practice for four fabrics

 

Wash by hand Wash by machine Dry Clean

 

No. % No. % No. %
Fabric A 7 1h 3 6 to 80
Fabric B 15 3o 25 so 10 20
Fabric 0 23 we 18 36 9 18
Fabric D 17 3k 1k 28 19 38

35
Water temperature.-Table 9 provides a description of the
number and percentage of women utilizing each water temperature
for the four fabrics.

Since the label for Fabric A states dry clean, no
directions concerning water temperature were provided. The
eleven respondents washing the fabric, all said they would
use warm water.

The directions on Fabric B recommended to wash the same
as cotton. warm water was selected by 70 per cent of the
interviewees, and hot water by only six per cent.

Label information on Fabric C may have influenced the
women in choice of water temperature. This information included
directions to machine or hand wash.the washfast colors. The
interviewees suggested the following water temperatures: warm
water, 76 per cent; and cold water, six per cent.

hater temperature information was not available on the
label of Fabric D. harm water was chosen by 56 per cent of
the sample, cold by six per cent, and a hot temperature by
two per cent.

Almost all of the women said they would use warm water
on these fabrics. Choices of water temperature may have been

influenced by the color of the fabrics.

36

TABLE 9.--Number and percentage of women utilizing each water
temperature for four fabrics

 

 

 

Hot . Warm Cold
No. % No. % No. %
Fabric A _- -- 11 22 -_ --
Fabric B 3 6 35 70 -- -_
Fabric 0 -- -- 38 76 3 6
Fabric D 1 2 28 56 3

Type of cleaning agent.- None of the fabrics provided informa-
tion as to what type of cleaning agent to use. A description
of the number and percentage of women utilizing each type of
cleaning agent for the four fabrics is provided in Table 10.1

For Fabric A, ten per cent of the woman named an all-
purpose cleaning agent, ten per cent mentioned a mild cleaning
agent, while two per cent gave no particular brand.

Forty-two per cent of the sample suggested an all-purpose
cleaning agent for Fabric B; 22 per cent would use a mild
cleaning agent; 20 per cent did not use any particular brand.

Fabric C would be washed with an all-purpose cleaning
agent by AZ per cent of the sample, a mild cleaning agent by

30 per cent, and no particular brand by 16 per cent.

 

1Examples of mild cleaning agents were Lux, Ivory, Vel,
and Dreft. Examples of all-purpose cleaning agents included
Duz, Rinso, Dash, All, Salvo, Fab, Surf, and Tide.

37

Thirty-six per cent of the sample would use an all-
purpose cleaning agent on Fabric D; 20 per cent choose a
mild cleaning agent. Twelve per cent did not state a partic-
ular brand.

The rank order by first choice of cleaning agent for all
of the fabrics is as follows: all-purpose cleaning agents,
mild cleaning agents, and no particular brand.

TABLE lO.--Number and percentage of women utilizing each type
of cleaning agent for four fabrics

 

 

 

Mild All-purpose No particular brand
No. % No. % No. %
Fabric A 5 1o 5 1o 1 2
Fabric B 11 22 21 A2 10 20
Fabric 0 15 3o 21 A2 8 16
Fabric D 10 2o 18 36 6 12

 

Use of fabric softeners.- Information concerning fabric soften-

 

ers was not available on the labeled stretch fabrics. The
majority of women stated they would not use fabric softeners
on the sample fabrics, as shown in Table 11.

When asked if they would use a fabric softener on Fabric
A, 16 per cent answered "No," and six per cent, "Yes." For
Fabric B, 22 per cent suggested using a fabric softener whereas
56 per cent stated that they would not use one. Fifty-six per

cent of the sample preferred not using a fabric softener on

38
Fabric C, while 30 per cent chose to do so. Eighteen per
cent said "Yes," and h8 per cent, "No," when asked.if they

would use fabric softeners for Fabric D.

TABLE ll.--Number and percentage of women who would or would
not use fabric softeners for four fabrics

 

 

 

Yes No
No. % No. %
Fabric A 3 6 8 16
Fabric B 11 22 28 56
Fabric 0 15 3o 28 56
Fabric D 9 18 28 LB

 

Drying practices.- The rank order of drying practices differs

 

slightly among the four fabrics. Hanging on the line was most
often mentioned; drip dry and tumble dry were mentioned approx-
imately the same number of times; while flat dry or rolling
in a towel and laying out flat were each mentioned once. The
number and percentage of women utilizing each drying practice
for the four fabrics is recorded in Table 12.

A drying technique was not provided on the label of Fabric
A. Ten per cent chose to hang the fabric on the line; six
per cent, drip dry; four per cent, tumble dry; and two per
cent, flat dry.

The label of Fabric B states drip dry on rust proof

39
hangers. Thirty-four per cent of the women said, "Hang the
fabric on the line;" 22 per cent, "Tumble dry;" 20 per cent,
"Drip dry;" and two per cent, "Roll in towel and lay the garment
flat." Other factors besides the label seem to influence the
consumer's choice in drying technique for this fabric. Resources,
for example apartment conditions and rules, may play an impor-
tant part in the consumers choice.

Drip or tumble dry is recommended by the label on Fabric
C. The interviewees advised the following methods for the
fabric: hang on line (38 per cent), tumble dry (22 per cent),
and drip dry (22 per cent). No wrong choice was possible,
therefore, it might be expected that the choice of method was
based on resources, past experiences, and appearance.

Drying directions were not provided for Fabric D.
Twenty-six per cent of the women preferred to hang the fabric
on the line, 20 per cent stated they would drip dry the fabric,
while 16 per cent suggested the tumble dry method.

TABLE 12.--Number and percentage of women utilizing each drying
practice for four fabrics

 

 

 

Flat Hung on wDrip dry Tumble wBoll in towel

Dry line ' dry lay out flat

No. % No. % No. % No. % No. %
Fabric A 1 2 5 10 3 6 2 u -- --
Fabric B —- -- 17 3h 10 2o 11 22 1 2
Fabric 0 -- -- 19 38 11 22 11 22 -- --
Fabric D -- -- 13 26 10 2o 8 16 -- --

M

#0

Pressinggpractices.- More respondents chose the practice of
steam ironing than dry ironing; no ironing and touch-up
ironing were also mentioned. The number and percentage of
women utilizing each pressing practice for the four fabrics
is listed in Table 13.

Fabric A was labeled crease resistant. Forty-eight
per cent of the women suggested a steam iron whereas 36 per
cent preferred a dry iron for this fabric. Sixteen per cent
of the interviewees said they would not press the fabric at
all, and four per cent said they would do touch-up ironing.
Several women were concerned about pressing dirt in this fabric
between dry cleanings. The practice of no ironing was recom-
mended most often for this fabric.

Touch up with a warm iron as desired were the directions
on Fabric B. The respondents mentioned the following prac-
tices: steam iron, Sh per cent; dry iron, 3k per cent; no
ironing, 12 per cent; and touch-up ironing, ten per cent.

There seemed to be little relationship between label instructions
and the replies. Other factors, such as resources, past exper-
iences, and appearance may be affecting the consumer.

According to the label, Fabric C is wrinkle resistant
and needs little or no ironing. Fifty-six per cent of the
women would use a steam iron Whereas 38 per cent chose the
dry iron. Eight per cent indicated touch-up ironing and six
per cent of the women would not press the fabric at all.

Fabric C is similar to Fabric B in that few consumers

#1
seemed to pay much attention to the label which stated that
little or no ironing was necessary.
Fabric D gives no information concerning pressing.
Steam pressing was suggested by 50 per cent of the women as
the method they would choose, dry ironing by 38 per cent, touch-
up ironing by four per cent, and no ironing by 12 per cent.

TABLE 13.--Number and percentage of women utilizing each pressing
practice for four fabrics

 

 

 

£3.1roniné figuch—up ironing Ngteam% ggy fl
Fabric A 8 16 2 h 2t 88 18 36
Fabric B 6 12 5 10 27 SA 17 3t
Fabric 0 3 6 t 8 28 56 19 38
Fabric D 6 12 2 u 25 50 19 38

 

Half of the reapondents mentioned a specific pressing
temperature for each of the four fabrics. A cool temperature
was most often designated. The number and percentage of women
indicating each iron temperature for the four fabrics is indi-
cated in Table 1A.

A specific pressing temperature was not indicated for
Fabric A. Forty-four per cent of the respondents suggested a
cool temperature, and six per cent a medium temperature.

Touch-up with a warm iron if desired were the directions

on Fabric B. A cool temperature was recommended by 30 per

#2

cent of the women, a medium iron by 12 per cent, and a hot iron
setting by eight per cent.

The label of Fabric C did not provide a temperature guide.
Iron temperatures suggested for the fabric were: cool, 26 per
cent; medium, 12 per cent; and hot, 16 per cent.

A pressing temperature was not available on the label of
Fabric D. Twenty-six per cent of the women advised a cool iron,
whereas 1h per cent mentioned a medium iron, and ten per cent
a cool iron.

It would seem that the respondents were concerned about
heat sensitivity with these stretch fabrics. Greatest concern
was given for the rayon-nylon fabric (A), and secondly, the
cotton-nylon fabric (B). Although directions concerning iron
temperatures were provided only for Fabric B, responses for
B, C (100 per cent cotton), and D (Cotton, Dacron, Lycra)
were quite similar.

TABLE lh.--Number and percentage of women indicating each iron
temperature for four fabrics

 

 

 

Hot Medium Cool
No. % No. _% No. %
Fabric A -- -- 3 6 22 ht
Fabric B u 8 6 12 15 30
Fabric 0 8 16 6 12 13 26
Fabric D 5 10 7 it 13 26

 

Care practices in relation to labels for four stretch

43

fabrics were discussed in this section. In some cases, there
was a similarity in label directions and treatment; in others,
a difference was noted. The label does not determine the care
given to the fabric, and other factors, such as appearance of
the fabric, the consumer's resources, and past experience, may

influence the consumer's decision.
Consistency in Choice of Cleaning Method for Four Fabrics

Consistency, or treating the fabrics in the same way, was
one of the factors explored in this study.

Consistency of cleaning procedure is described in Table 15.
Fifty-eight per cent of the women treat at least three out of
four fabrics in the same way. Directions to dry clean were given
by It per cent of the women for the four fabrics, whereas eight
per cent would always wash by hand, and two per cent always by
machine. Interviewees who were consistent three out of four
times included: 12 per cent who washed by hand, 18 per cent by
machine, and four per cent who dry cleaned. Consistency totals
for the three cleaning procedures were similar.

One out of four of the labels specifically stated the
fabric was to be dry cleaned. Two out of four labels implied
both machine and hand washing as possible care treatments. One
label read "wash or dry clean," which suggests that all three
methods are possible. Consistency in care treatment for three
fabrics is therefore possible without conflicting with label

recommendations.

.
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5

 

44

TABLE lS.--Percentage of reapondents who showed consistency of
cleaning procedure in relation to method

 

 

hash by Wash by Dry

 

 

Consistency criteria hand machine clean
£12

Identical rating on all fabrics 8 2 1h

Identical on 3 out of h fabrics 12 18 a

W 20 20 18

 

aRatings differed for #2 per cent.

 

Table 16 shows the consumer's consistency in choice of
cleaning agent. Ratings were provided only for those who
would wash more than one fabric. An all-purpose cleaning agent
was always suggested by 3h per cent, a mild cleaning agent by
2h per cent, and 1h per cent gave no particular brand. Twelve
per cent varied the detergent with the fabric. Specific types
of cleaning agents were not recorded on the labels.

TABLE l6.--Percentage of reapondents who showed consistency in
choice of cleaning agent for the fabrics they would washa

 

 

 

' A - N - ti 1 r brand
Consistency criteria Mi%d 11 pgrpose o par%cu a
Identical rating on
all washed fabrics 2h 3h 18

More than one ratingb
8Restricted to those who chose to wash more than one fabric.

bTwelve per cent varied the detergent with the fabric.

Consistency in the decision to use fabric softener is

recorded in Table 17. The percentages represent interviewees

 

 

 

' ‘ ' ‘ .. I V
.
U I ‘
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. .oO- ' 0-.
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45
who chose to wash more than one fabric. Seventy-six per cent
(Sh per cent no, and 22 per cent yes) stated an identical reply
concerning the use of fabric softeners. Eight per cent of the
respondents varied the decision to use fabric softener with the
fabric. Directions concerning fabric softeners were not provided
by the labels.

TABLE l?.--Percentage of respondents who showed consistency in
decision to use fabric softener for fabrics they would washa

 

 

 

Yes No
Consistency criteria % %
Identical rating on all
washed fabrics 22 5h

More than one ratingb

 

8Restricted to those who chose to wash more than one fabric.

bEight per cent of the respondents varied the decision to use
fabric softener with the fabric.

 

The percentage of respondents who showed consistency in
drying techniques were restricted to those who chose to wash
more than one fabric (see Table 18). A total of 58 per cent
of the respondents gave identical drying techniques for the
fabrics they would wash. The rank order of consistency in
drying technique was hanging on the line (28 per cent), drip
dry (18 per cent), and tumble dry (12 per cent). Twenty-six
per cent of the interviewees varied drying techniques with the
fabrics.

s».

'
o- 9
V‘ 1
n
u

 

46
Drying techniques were provided for only Fabrics B and
C, and it was possible to be consistent by choosing the drip
dry method. Twenty-six per cent of the interviewees varied
drying techniques with the fabric.

TABLE 18.--Percentage of respondents who showed consistency
in drying technique for fabrics that were washed8

 

Drying technique
Flat Hung on Drip Tumble Roll in towel

 

dry line dry dry and lay out flat
6. o v. w %
Identical
rating on -- 28 18 12 --
washed fab-
rics

More than one ratingb

 

8Restricted to those who chose to wash more than one fabric.

bTwenty-six per cent of the respondents varied drying tech-
niques with the fabric.

 

Table 19 gives the percentage of women who showed consis-
tency in pressing procedure. Information was provided for
fabrics B and C, stating that little or no ironing was nec-
essary, or touch up if desired.

Sixty per cent of the respondents were consistent on all
of the fabrics; 2# per cent were consistent on three out of
four of the fabrics. Pressing procedure was varied by 16 per
cent of the women. The rank order of total number of women
who were consistent three or more out of four times in each
method is: steam pressing, #8 per cent; dry pressing, 32 per

cent; and no pressing, four per cent. No one consistently used

4*

 

0
_ ...-
. ,.—‘
.-
‘ .
‘ -
‘.
v
A
, r. . "
6"“. I

 

47
the technique of touch-up pressing.
A definite trend toward using the same pressing procedure
for the four fabrics is noted. Information on the label did
not seem to influence the women.

TABLE l9.--Percentage of respondents who showed consistency of
pressing procedure in relation to method

A‘

 

 

 

’No Touch-upw
Consistency criteria Pr9%51n8 Sfiiam. 8%Z“PP6;81HS
Identical rating on all fabrics 2 36 22 --
Identical on 3 out of # fabrics 2 12 10 -—
W 1+ #8 32 --

 

aSixteen per cent varied their pressing procedure with the
fabric.

 

Fifty-two per cent of the women stated a specific pressing
temperature for the fabrics (see Table 20). More than half of
these women (30 per cent) usually used the same temperature for
all of the fabrics. Twenty per cent of the total sample indi-
cated that they varied pressing temperatures with the fabric.
The rank order of totals for consistency by temperature is cool
(16 per cent), medium (ten per cent), and hot (six per cent).
One fabric provided a specific ironing temperature: the label
on Fabric B stipulated a warm iron (classified as cool).

Past eXperiences may have lead women to be temperature
conscious for all "new" fabrics. Therefore the women would

tend to use a cool (or warm) iron for all of the fabrics.

p
nor...

.-.‘

. .
a
n
a
. .
4
. '\
..
‘ ‘II.
I”
~
)

o...

- c-o‘ . ‘4‘

‘-

0‘-- r‘...

1' -Q ..~

...... I
. 'f' l ' -
‘ ‘ ' 3. - -:
-. .' ...-.. .
‘s: '5
u.
- h‘
p'u
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- 1
,D
. .

48

TABLE 20.43Percentage of reapondents who showed consistency
by indicating a specific pressing temperature in relation to
pressing temperature

“41.1.. 4.49% ... AL‘Aninlixlu LAJWA- '1 Le a l .1

 

...— A _‘L 4 ‘al A L_ J - A11"Lh.i LA“. A _‘_A- AA LA A u—n 4 L.

 

 

Consistency criteria HOt Medium Cool

A in % % %
Identical rating on all fabrics -- 2 10
Identical on 3 out of # fabrics 6 8 6

Ratings differeda

 

aTwenty per cent indicated that they varied pressing tempera-
ture with the fabric.

 

A greater tendency in consistency was noted in use of
fabric softener, choice of cleaning agent, and pressing pro-
cedure for these fabrics. Interviewees were more likely to
vary cleaning procedure, pressing temperature, and drying tech-
niques (see Table 21). More information was available on the
labeled fabrics for factors in which the interviewees varied.
There is also a possibility that the differing care practices
might have a greater effect on the fabric if incorrectly used.
(i.e., (1) Is it a matter of personal preference as to whether
a woman uses a fabric softener or not? Would it be harmful or
beneficial if she chose or chose not to use a fabric softener?
(2) Is choice of cleaning agent a personal decision or does this
vary with the fabric? (3) Does it matter if the interviewee
chooses to use a steam or dry iron on these specific fabrics?)

In contrast, cleaning problems most often mentioned by the
women were related to choice of cleaning procedure (see Appendix
D). The interviewees varied most in choice of cleaning procedure.
This data seems to point out a possible relationship between

personal experience and choice of cleaning procedure.

.-
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*— -.".-'

 

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49

The manufacturers would seemingly provide information
about a preferred care practice. (i.e., The manufacturer might
provide a list of "Do's" and "Don'ts" for the specific fabric,
but is the manufacturer likely to provide information about a
care practice that does not benefit or harm the fabric?)

TABLE 21.-~Summary by rank order of consistency and variability

by percentage of interviewees, and information available on the
label

 

 

Label instructions

 

Care practice Consistent Varied available
a i %
Use of fabric softener 9O 10 0
Use of cleaning agent 86 l# 0
Pressing procedure 8# l6 2
Drying technique 69 31 2
Pressing temperature 62 38 1
Cleaning procedure 58 #2 #

 

Both past experience and the label may influence what the

consumer does for these fabrics.
Selected Cleaning Methods in Relation to Age and Income

The effect of personal background such as age and income
are explored in this section.

A comparison of age and percentage of women using each
cleaning practice for the four fabrics is described in Table 22.
A greater percentage of women under twenty-five than over forty-
one chose to wash the four fabrics by hand. Dry cleaning was
chosen by women over forty-one more often than by women under

twenty-five.

 

NV

 

 

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50

mm ma mm

 

 

a U E
QwOHO hHQ

ooapoman meanmoao some

mooapoeam mafifimoao peas oohemsoo enoam ems

am me an mm in mm mm ma we as acre
mm mm mm as NH em as am -u eeumm
on or o: co m em or or mm mm scene
8 MGHSOMB and”! new .4iomaws 23 We?!)

wnams mpsoosomwoh yo ommpsoonom

i-

moaapwm 950% now
some CH munoozommea go mumpsoohomla.mm Hausa

51
Consistency in choice of cleaning procedure was compared
to age in Table 23. Sixty-nine per cent of the women over
forty-one were consistent, 60 per cent of the women under
twenty-five were consistent, whereas #7 per cent of the women

between twenty-five and forty gave similar answers.

TABLE 23.-~Percentage of respondents who showed consistency
of cleaning procedure in relation to age

 

 

 

Consistency criteria B612? 25 25%h0 Ova; hl
Identical rating on all fabrics 15 18 #6
Identical on 3 out of A fabrics #5 29 23
Ratings differed #0 53 31

 

Income may also influence choice of cleaning practice
(see Table 2#). Because income groups were unequal it is dif-
ficult to point out Specific trends. Dry cleaning, the most
expensive method, was least chosen by the income group under
33,000. Other income groups used the dry cleaning method more
frequently. Washing by hand, the least expensive method, was
most often chosen by the income group under 83,000.

Table 25 describes the percentage of respondents showing
consistency of pressing procedure in relation to age. A dif-
ference is noted for identical ratings for four fabrics. Ratings
provided by the age group of under twenty-five were less consis-

tent in choice of pressing technique than older age groups.

I
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.
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5
l

52

TABLE 2#.--Number and percentage of respondents in each income
category compared with cleaning practices for four fabrics

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

FABRIC A
wash by hand wash by machine Dry clean
No. % No. % No. %
Below o3,ooo 3 SO 1 17 2 33
13.000-57.u99 1 h 1 20 g2
w7.500-w9. 99 1 1h -- *- 6 6
wl0,000-wl ,999 1 10 1 lo 8 0
Above 315,000 -- -- -- -- l 100
FABRIC
Wash by hand wash by machine Dry clean
No. 3% No. 4% No. %
Below ;3, 000 h 66 l 17 1 17
W3 000-w7, #99 i 23 13 9 t 18
.7 500 19 99 S7 3 3 -- --
al0.000-wl .999 2 20 5 50 3 30
Above 215,000 -- -- l 100 -- ~-
FABRIC
wash by hand wash by machine Dry clean
No / No. % No.
Below r3,ooo 6 100 -- -- --
w3.000-w7.h99 8 36 11 SO 31h
97.500-a9,999 h 7 2 29 1 1A
e10.000-71u.999 h o 3 3o 3
Above $15,000 1 100 -- -- -- --
FABRIC
‘wash by hand Wash by machine Dry clean
No. % No. B No. %
Below a3,ooo % 66 2 33 -- --
93.000-w7.#99 27 6 27 10 ts
a7.500-t9. 99 h 57 3 #3 -- --
elo,ooo-al ,999 2 2o 2 2o 6 60

Above 815,000 1 100

 

 

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.
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t
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53

Ratings varied for approximately equal percentages from each

age group.

TABLE 25.--Pcrcentage of respondents who showed consistency
of pressing procedure in relation to age

A;

A__A

Under 25 25-K0 Over hl

 

Consistency criteria g% A% %
Identical rating on all fabrics “5 71 69
Identical on 3 out of A fabrics ho 12 15
Ratings differed 15 18 15

 

The percentage of respondents who showed consistency by
indicating a specific pressing temperature in each age group is
recorded in Table 26. A comparison of totals for each age group
shows that the respondents under twenty-five may be more con-
scious of iron temperature, and vary their ratings more with

the fabric than other age groups.

TABLE 26.--Percentage of reapondents who showed consistency

by indicating a specific pressing temperature in relation to age‘1

 

 

Consistency criteria Uhde; 25 25;h0 0V6; #1

f *7

 

 

Identical rating on all fabrics 15 6 15
Identical on three out of h fabrics 3o 12 15
Ratings differed 31 18 8
Totals 76 36 38

 

aFifty-two per cent of the women mentioned a specific tempera~
ture for the four fabrics.

 

54

Table 27 describes the percentage of respondents in each
age group compared with pressing practices for the four fabrics.
A greater percentage of women over forty-one than the other age
groups seem to choose the practice of no ironing.

The percentage of respondents in each age group were com-
pared with indications of pressing temperatures for the four
fabrics in Table 28. All age groups used a cool temperature
most often for the four fabrics. The youngest age group seemed
most likely to choose the cool temperature. Differences were
slight for medium and hot temperatures compared to age groups.

In summary, relationships have been described between
age and cleaning procedures especially the youngest and oldest
groups. The youngest group tended to do the following:

(1) Washed by hand more often than the other age groups.

(2) Rated second in consistency in choice of cleaning
procedure.

(3) Were less consistent in choice of pressing technique
than other age groups.

(h) were more conscious of iron temperature than other
age groups.

(5) Varied ironing temperature more for the fabric than
other age groups.

(6) Chose a cool temperature more often for all of the
fabrics than other age groups.

The oldest group tended toward the following practices:
(1) Dry clean more often than other groups.
(2) here most consistent in choice of cleaning procedure.

(3) Chose the practice of no ironing more than other
age groups.

The influence of income may also affect the answers of the

women. The income group under 93,000 was least likely to

55

 

I;

II as umbo

 

m an an mm ma ma we we m m u-
ma NH ma as we NH 0 u- we we NH .. oeumm
we mm o: co ma 0H me m 0H om 0H nu mm noes:
o o m e a o m e n ee m «

Hooo assume pom

macpwaomamp anammona some means mummenocmmn we emepcmoaem

 

 

 

 

mowanwm H509 no“ enducnocamp wnammoam no
Soapmodonfi and: oeammaoo macaw emu some SH mucoeaommen no owopneonomll.mm mqm¢e

 

 

an an an mm mm am an Hm an m me an a: cape
mm mm mm mm mm on no no u: 0 NH ma os.mm
we we we we we on m: m: 0H m 0H 0H mm amen:
o o awn « a sewem m 4 a o eomH oz a

eoapoeam mzammohm some demS mucoenomwon mo ammunoonom

 

 

unamwmnm Spar vehemeoo mdohm ewe

meannmu 9509 you meoapocnm

some SH mpnoosommeh no ommpcooaomll.nw mqm49

L.-

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I... K .

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I ...-4.
. vu-

55
choose the dry cleaning method whereas other income groups chose
to dry clean about equally for these fabrics. Washing by hand
was most often selected by the income group under V3.000. Other
income groups used the dry cleaning method more frequently

although other methods were also employed for all of the fabrics.

CHAPTER IV

SUMLARY, CONCLUSIONS, AND RmCOMMmNDATIONS

Summary

The purpose of this problem was to determine how the
consumer interprets care information presented with selected
stretch fabrics. Specifically, reported experiences in
buying and caring for clothing, consumer care practices for
four sample fabrics, consistency of care practices, and
selected practices in relation to income and age were analyzed.

Four labeled stretch fabrics were used as the basic
instrument to measure the consumer's interpretation of care
information. A questionnaire was also developed in order to
obtain certain background information about the interviewees.
The final instrument was administered to 50 women who were
customers at a laundromat. The women varied in age, amount
of education, occupational group, income, and number of children.

The findings of the study may be summarized as follows:

(1) Interviewees have had experience in purchasing

clothing and do most of the buying for the family.

(2) Respondents have had experience in cleaning fab-

rics. Approximately half of the women described

unfortunate incidents in cleaning; nearly half

57

(3)

(h)

58
referred to examples in cleaning "new" fabrics;
almost two thirds described experiences with stretch
fabrics, consisting mainly of winter stretch gar-
ments, such as ski pants.
Fabric A, composed of 70 per cent rayon and 30 per
cent nylon, was labeled, crease resistant and dry
clean. Four-fifths of the women said they would
dry clean the fabric; The following procedures
were recommended by the women who would use the
methods hand or machine wash. All of the women
suggested warm water; an equal number recommended
all-purpose and mild cleaning agents; the majority
of the women did not use a fabric softener; and
drip dry and hang on the line were named as the
drying procedure by two-thirds of the women.
More than four-fifths of the women would iron Fabric
A with a steam or dry iron. A cool temperature was
advised by almost one-half of the interviewees.
The composition of Fabric B was 75 per cent cotton
and 25 per cent nylon. Care information on the
label read, wash and wear - wash same as cottons -
avoid chlorine bleaches - drip dry on rust proof
hangers, touch up with warm iron as desired. Machine
washing was chosen by 50 per cent of the sample, hand
washing by 30 per cent, and dry cleaning by 20 per

cent. Almost three-fourths of the women recommended

(S)

59

warm water for the fabric. More women recommended
all—purpose cleaning agents than mild cleaning agents;
The majority of the women did not suggest a water
softener. A variety of drying practices were
mentioned, with only 20 per cent of the women advis-
ing the drip dry method. Fifty-four per cent of

the women recommended the pressing practice of steam
ironing; and 3h per cent, dry ironing. Only 10 per
cent suggested touch-up ironing. A cool ironing
temperature was advocated by 30 per cent of the

women and a medium temperature by 12 per cent.

Fabric C, composed of 100 per cent cotton, was

labeled machine or hand wash, washfast colors, drip
or tumble dry, needs little or no ironing. hashing
by hand was chosen by #6 per cent of the women; machine
washing by 36 per cent, and dry cleaning by 18 per
cent. Three-fourths of the women suggested warm
water. An all-purpose cleaning agent was chosen by
h? per cent of the women, whereas 3h per cent men-
tioned a mild one. Over half of the sample would not
use a fabric softener. A variety of drying techniques
were suggested, including hanging on the line (38} per
cent), tumble dry (22 per cent), and drip dry (22 per
cent). Steam ironing (56 per cent) and dry ironing
(38 per cent) were recommended ironing procedures.

A cool pressing temperature was mentioned by 26 per

cent of the women.

 

.0

...

‘- {V .

(6)

(7)

(8)

60
The label on Fabric D, 60 per cent Dacron polyester,
32 per cent cotton, and eight per cent Lycra-spandex,
provided directions to wash or dry clean. The .
interviewees recommended the following care practices:
dry cleaning: 38 per cent; hand wash: 3h per cent;
and machine wash: 28 per cent. The majority of women
chose to wash the fabric in warm water. An all-purpose
cleaning agent was suggested by 36 per cent of the
sample whereas 20 per cent recommended a mild one.
The majority of the women would not use a fabric
softener. A variety of drying techniques were men-
tioned including, hang on the line (38 per cent),
tumble dry (22 per cent), and drip dry (22 per cent).
Ironing procedures included steam ironing: 50 per cent
and dry ironing: 38 per cent. Twenty-six per cent
of the women mentioned a cool temperature for
pressing.
This sample of women showed greatest consistency in
care treatment for the fabrics in the following areas:
use of fabric softener, use of cleaning agent, and -
pressing procedure. Less consistency was apparent
in these areas: cleaning procedure, pressing temper-
ature, and drying techniques.
A relationship between age and cleaning procedure
may be noted for this sample in the youngest and

oldest groups. women under 25 tended to wash by hand)

’In.

61
were less consistent in choice of pressing technique,
were more likely to mention a specific ironing
temperature, and chose a cool iron temperature set-
ting for all of the fabrics more often than other
age groups. Women over hl in the sample were more
likely to dry clean, were more consistent in choice
of cleaning procedure, and chose the practice of
no ironing more than other age groups.

(9) Level of income may have affected the answers of the
women in this sample. The income group under $3,000
was least likely to choose the dry cleaning method,
whereas other income groups chose to dry clean about
equally for these fabrics. Washing by hand.was
selected most often by the income group under $3,000.
Other income groups used the dry cleaning method more
frequently, although other methods were also employed
for all the fabrics.

W

Although incomplete care instructions were provided, the
label appeared to affect women of this study in their choices a?
cleaning practices. Specifically, choices of cleaning practice

for these fabrics are similar to information provided on the

label.

62

When information was not available on the label, the women
in the sample tended to treat all fabrics in the same manner.
For example, few interviewees varied the use of fabric softener
and choice of cleaning agent with the four stretch fabrics.

Factors other than the label may have influenced cleaning
practices used by the women in this sample. The age group
under 25 and the lowest income group were more likely to wash
by hand and less likely to dry clean these fabrics, than the
age group over kl and other income groups. The young women
under 25 interviewed in this sample were more likely to vary
pressing techniques than interviewees over the age of hl.

Educational media could be increased considerably to
provide care information about new fabrics for consumers.
Informed personnel and effective illustrative materials in
cleaning establishments are two means of acquainting women
with factual information on the care of textiles. High school,
college, and non-credit classes may be used as means to distri-
bute information to help consumers make wise decisions on care
practices. Written materials concerning care information could
be made more available to the consumers through women's maga-
zines and extension bulletins as well as research journals. The
textile industry could increase and make more effective care
information tO'various communication medias at the time new
products arrive on the market, so that consumers will have a

body of knowledge on which to base their care decisions.

63

Recommendgtions

The major purpose of this study was to determine how the
consumer interprets care information presented with selected
stretch fabrics. As a result of the findings of this explora-
tory study, the following recommendations are made:

(1) Replication of this study with women in another

laundromat.

(2) Replication of this study with women who launder

clothing at home.

(3) Replication of this study with a larger sample

population in order to test more rigorously for
the association of age and incane to choices of

care practices.

BIBLI CG 2'; HI

61+

BIBLIOGRAPHY
Public Documents

Drake, Phyllis, and Grimes, Mary Anna. Labeling of Ready-
made Street Dresses. Texas Agricultural Station,
Bulletin 553, November, 1959.

Myers, Samuel L. Textile and A* arel Testin and Labelin .
Harzard Studies In Marketing Farm Products No. 5-H,
195 .

. Consumer Satisfaction with Women's Blouses.
I-EaSoratory-Wear Studies. 5Rhode Island Agricultural
Experiment Station Bulletin 3h2. 1958.

U.S. Statutes at Large. Vol. LXV.
U.S. Statutes at Large. Vol. LIV.
U.S. Statutes at Large. Vol. LXRII.

Books

American Home Economics Association. Textile Handbook.
Washington: American Home Economics Association,

1963.

Coles, Jessie V. Standards and Labels for Consumer Goods.
New York: The'Ronald Press Company, 19h9.

Gross, Irma H., and Crandall, Elizabeth Walbert. ganagement
for Modern Families. 2d ed. revised. New York:
Appleton-Century-Crofts, 1963.

Hollen, Norma, and Saddler, Jane. Textiles. 2d ed. revised.
New York: The Macmillan Co., 195H.

Jahoda, Marie; Deutsch, Morton; Cook, Stuart W. Raggarch
Methods in Social Relatiogg. New'York: The Dryden
Press, 1951.

Sellitz, Claire; Jahoda, Marie; Deutsch, Morton; and Cook,

Stuart W. Research Methods in Social Relations. New
York: Holt, Rinéhart, Winston, 1963.

65

66

Wilhelm, Fred, and Heimerl, Ramon. Consumer Economics,
Principles and Problems. 2d ed. revised. New York:
MO Paw- 3001‘ C00, Inc., 19590

Wingate, Isabel B. Textile Fabrics and Their Selection.
New Jersey: Prentice-Hall, Inc., 196E.

Wolcott, Roger. Informative Labelin . New'York: National
Consumer-Retailer Council, Inc., l9hl.

Articles and Periodicals

Fisher, 0. H. "Stretch Cottons: Their Properties and Their
Promise," Modern Textile Magazine, XLIV (March, 1963),

Sloan, William G., Hoffman, Milton J., Robinson, Helen M.,
Moore, Harry B., and Cooper, Albert 8., Jr. "Stretch-
able Cotton Fabrics - Properties and Processing Techniques
American Dyestuff Reporter, LII (May 27, 1963), pp. A12-

HIE.

Sloan, William G., Murphy, Alton L., Hoffman, Milton J., Moore,
Harry B., and Cooper, Albert 8., Jr. "Cotton Stretch
Fabrics by Slack Mercerization: Part 1, The Effects of
‘Yarn and Fabric Construction," Textile Research Journal,
XXXIII (March, 1963), pp. 191-198.

. "Are Ybu Ready for Stretch7," Modern Textiles,
"““XIV’TJa1y, 196A), p. 25-26.

Unpublished Material

Abell, Marion A. "A Study of the Adequacy of Labels on Women's
Garments Made from Synthetic, Natural, or Mixed Fibers."
Unpublished M.A. Thesis, Ohio University, 1957.

Brown, Mary L. "Labeling Preferences of Consumers of Blouses.”
Unpublished M.S. Thesis, Iowa State University of
Science and Technology, 1959.

McBride, Betty L. "Informative Labeling and Advertising of
Ready-to-wear Garments." Unpublished M.A. Thesis,
University of Chicago, 1953.

Muscetti, Kathleen Marie. "Homemakers Interpretation of
Washing Instructions on Labels of Winter Skirts."
Unpublished M.S. Thesis, Iowa State University of
Science and Technology, 1961.

.
.
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.
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.

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67

Steinhoff, Jeanne Joubert. "A Study of Consumer Awareness and
Utilization of Garment Labels." Unpublished M.A.
Problem, Department of Textiles, Clothing and Related
Arts, Michigan State University, 1963.

Taber, Bennela D. "A Study of the Clothing Buying Habits
and Preferences of the Home Economics High School
Student." Unpublished M.A. Thesis, University of
Rhode Island, 1960.

Other Sources

Chamber of Commerce of Greater Lansing. Telephone conversation
to obtain statistics on the communit of Lansing and
East Lansing, Michigan. August, 196 .

E. I. Du Pont De Nemours & Co., Inc. Textile Fibers Dept.,
Tips for Home Sewing: Stretch Woven Fabric of
"Dacron " Cotton, and ycra. ew ark: American
T ead Company.

APPENDIX A

SAMPLES 0F FABRICS USED

 

FA smc A FABRlC e

 

FABFHC C FABPdC D

APPENDIX B

INTERVIEW - QUESTIONNAIRE

7O

INTERVIEW WITH CONSUMERS

1. If you had garments made of these fabrics in your wardrobe,
and they became soiled, how would you go about cleaning them?

 

 

CLEANING:
a. wash by hand
b. machine
c. dry clean
d. other
WATER TLMBHRATURE
a. hot
b. warm
c. cold
d. other
CLEANING AGENT
a. mild
b. all purpose
c. brand name
d. other
BLEACH
a. yes
b. no
0. type or brand
d. other
STARCH
a. yes
b. no
c. type or brand
d. other
A TO sOFTLNLR
a. yes
b. no
c. type or brand
d. other
DRYING
a. flat dried
b. hung on the line
c. drip dried
d. tumble dried
e. removing excess
moisture between
towels, and lay
out flat to dry.
f.gther
PRESSING
a. no ironing
b. steam ironing
c. dry ironing
hot
medium
cool
other
d. touch up ironing
6. other

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

71

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72

Have you had any experience with cleaning new fabrics?

Have you ever washed a garment and.later wished you had dry
cleahed it?

What experience have you had taking care of stretch fabrics?
Who purchases most of the clothing in your family?
Wife Husband Both Other

How has most of your family's clothing been obtained during
the past year?

 

Purchased by

your fgmily

Gifts Hand—me-downs

children's clothing

 

men's clothing

 

women's clothing -

General Comments:

73

PERSONAL BACKGROUND OF'THE CONSUMER
Check these items which best describe you or your family.

A. General Background Information

In which age Group How many children do you have
do you belong? in each of these groupings?

(1) Under 25 years of age (1) None

(2) 25 to to years of age (2) Pre-school, kindergarten
through grade 6
(3) Over hi years of age (3) 7th grade and above

B. Educational Background

As of July 1, l96h how much education have you completed?
(1) Less than four years of high school

(2) Graduate of high school
(3) Vocational school or business college completed
(h) Junior college or part of a four year college program

(5) Graduate of college or university. My major area
in college is__ .

C. Occupational Background

What is/are the occupation (s) of the main contributers to the
income in your family? Indicate whether the occupation is for
the husband, wife, or others by writing in the position and
member of the family.

OCCUPATION FAMILY
MEMBER
(1) General worker (laborer, janitor, waitress, etc)

-(2) Offic? worker (bookkeeper, cashier, secretary,

etc.

(3) Owns or manages a small business (store, gaso-
line station, insurance agency, cafe, repair
shop, etc.)

(h) Owns or manages a larger business. How many
persons work for him? Name of business

(5) Owns or manages a farm

(6) Rents a farm

(7) Professional (lawyer, doctor, banker, teacher,
etc.)

(8) Salesman (insurance, real estate, retail store,

etc.)

(9) Skilled worker (carpenter, electrician, etc.)

(10)Other (Indicate what occupation)

Which, if any, of these occupations, are part-time?

 

 

 

 

 

D. Income Groupings
In which group will your family's yearly income fall?

——5 £2 9.2191". @1099“ —SE? 930'0093‘191299

APPENDIX C

EXPERIENCE WITH CLEANING NEW FABRICS

74

"Have you had any experience with cleaning new fabrics?"

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

EXPERIENCES
Fabric or fiber Care given Problems in Expression °f
classification care Spprova or
W
Knits Dry cleans
Silk, linen, wool
Dacron wear out
Wished she
Knits had dry
cleaned
?

"Marshmallow Doesn t know
f b i n how will

a r c clean

, “88th With
“Bares white clothes
Dacron Spots
Polyesters, Hand washes,
Celanese Acetate,
Arnel, Fortrel no ironing
Dacron “EShGS

successfully m_

Dacron and Doesn't stay
cotton white
Lycra stretch Dry cleans Wrinkles when

slacks gg and washes washed
Drip drys Likes
Blends Usually sticks

to cotton

 

75

..J-n-

I.
v

75
SINGLE t*“13;OII‘LS'LES DESCRIBING:

Fabric or Fiber Classification:

(A) Dacron
Drip drys
Wash and wear cotton
Stretch
Lycra
Synthetics
Polyesters

(2) Whipped Cream
Dacron blends
Tarpoon

Care Given:

Asks attendant
(h) Dry cleans practically all

Approval or Disapproval:

(2) Buy mostly cotton
Usually buy cotton or wool

APP 3ND IX D

INAPPROPRIATE CLEANING OF FABRICS

77

"Have you ever washed a garment and later wished you had

dry cleaned it?"

EXBERIQNCES

 

 

 

 

Description of Care given Results Remedy
problem fabric

or garment

Wool skirt Hand washed Shrinkage

Linen like Shrinkage

material Ravels

 

Trouble with Iron on the

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ironing wrong side
Dacron sweater Washed by hand Shrinkage
Loss of
Washed sizing Spray sizing
Washed in the
Mohair sweater machine Shrinkage
Hard to
Cordoroy clean
Knit-like Raveled
Wool Shrinkage
Hung up 12 inches
Nylon suit after washing longer
Rayon-cotton
blend Shrinkage

 

Washed in mach- Fits daughter's
ine, put through doll
dryer

Wool sweater

 

Opposite is
also true

Sweaters
(colors change)

 

78

79

 

 

 

 

Description of Care given Results Remedy
problem fabric

or garment A

Raincoat with Washed by Lint

fuzzy back machine

Sweaters Shrinkage

 

 

SINGLE RESPONSES DESCRIBING:

Problem Fabric

or Garment:

(3) Sweaters
Linen

Results:

Problems with pressing
Shrinkage

Stre

tches

Faded
(2) Change of shape
(3) Loss of body

Doesn't take chances
Careful, reads labels

) Dry
) Dry
Dry
Dry
The

cleans first

cleans when in doubt
cleans all but Dacron
cleans almost exclusively
opposite is also true

APPENDIX E

EXPERIENCE IN CARING FOR STRETCH FABRICS

80

"What experiences have you had in caring for stretch fabrics?"

EXPERIENCES

 

Description of
fabric or garment

Expression of
Approval or
Disapproval

Care given Problems

 

Stretch denim

Machine, hot
water, mangle

 

Stretch pants,
wool content

Dry cleans

 

Stretch pants

Washes

 

 

 

Slacks Dry cleans
Wash in machine,
Pajamas press with warm
iron
Washes in

Stretch denim

————

machine, dryer

 

 

Dryer Shrinkage
Stretch pants Machine
for baby h
Wool combination Dry cleans Balls

 

 

 

 

Children's Dry cleans all

clothinz but denim

Denim (heavier

than sample Machine A
Cotton knits Stretches

Winter fabric Washes

 

Part wool
stretch slacks

White Stag

Jack Winter,
winter slacks

Dry cleans

Faded replaced
Dry cleans by tn; store
Stretches, no

Dry cleans recovery

81

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Description of Care given Problems Expression of
fabric or garment Approval 0?
Stretch winter
slacks Dry cleans
Winter slacks Dry cleans
Winter slacks Dry cleans
Denim Machine
Winter Pants Washes by hand
(rayon)
Slacks Washes
Washes Stretched;
.now_dny_c1aans

 

Winter stretch
pants

Dry cleans

 

 

Stretch denim

Washes

 

Stretch slacks

Dry cleans

 

Stretch slacks

Dry cleans

Washed by hand,
gives more wrinkles

 

Stretch denim

Washes by
machine

 

SINGLE RESPONSES DESCRIBING:

Fabric or Garment:

(2) Stretch pants
Stretch denim
Bathing suits

Jersey

Care:

wash by machine
Sews like silk: place strip of paper in between
of fabric

Expression of Approval or Disapproval:

Doesn't like

109 °3’°4
38736

10