Balancing Sun Safety and Vitamin D

Vitamin D is essential for bone health, immune function, and overall wellness, and the sun is a primary source of it. However, determining how much sun exposure leads to excessive vitamin D is tricky because the body regulates vitamin D production naturally.

Key Points:

• The body self-regulates vitamin D: When you're exposed to sunlight, your skin synthesizes vitamin D, but the body has a mechanism to prevent overproduction. Therefore, it's unlikely you will get too much vitamin D from sun exposure alone.

• Recommended Sun Exposure: For most people, 10 to 30 minutes of midday sun a few times per week is sufficient to produce enough vitamin D. The exact time depends on factors like skin type, location, and time of year. Darker skin may need more time in the sun, while lighter skin may need less.

• Risk of Sun Damage: While overexposure to the sun may not result in vitamin D toxicity, it increases the risk of skin damage (such as sunburn) and long-term risks like skin cancer. To avoid sun damage, it's best to limit exposure during peak UV hours (10 a.m. – 4 p.m.) and use sunscreen and UPF+50 sun protection shirts and apparel after your short vitamin D exposure window.

Vitamin D Toxicity:

• Vitamin D toxicity typically results from excessive supplements, not sun exposure. Taking more than 4,000 IU/day of vitamin D over long periods can lead to toxicity, causing issues like hypercalcemia (high calcium levels in the blood), which can harm the kidneys, heart, and bones.

Conclusion:

While your body won't produce too much vitamin D from sunlight alone, too much sun exposure can lead to skin damage. To balance it, enjoy 10-30 minutes of unprotected sun exposure and then apply sunscreen or wear UPF+50 sun shirts to prevent harm from UV rays.

BLTees Custom Printed +50 UPF Sun Shirt

It's so easy to design your custom printed 50+ UPF sun shirts online. If you need to add sun protection for your family vacation or need to find a cool uniform for your employees. Our sun shirts are cool and made of moisture wicking materials that look and feel great.

Visit our website or call us for more information.

Discover Camo!

Re-Think Camo!

Get Noticed With Our Safety Colored Sun Shirts

Investing in safety-colored sun shirts for your business can offer numerous benefits, particularly if your work environment involves outdoor activities or exposure to sunlight. Here are several reasons why purchasing safety-colored sun shirts may be advantageous for your business:

1. Increased Visibility: Safety-colored shirts, especially those in bright hues like neon yellow or orange, enhance visibility, making it easier for your employees to be seen, particularly in low-light conditions or areas with high traffic.

2. Safety Compliance: Depending on your industry, there may be regulations or standards regarding high-visibility clothing to ensure worker safety. Utilizing safety-colored sun shirts can help your business comply with these requirements and avoid potential fines or penalties.

3. Reduced Risk of Accidents: Enhanced visibility can reduce the risk of accidents, such as collisions or being struck by moving vehicles or equipment, by improving the ability of others to see your workers, especially in environments with heavy machinery or vehicular traffic.

4. Protection from UV Radiation: Sun shirts designed specifically for sun protection offer +50 UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) ratings, shielding your employees from harmful UV radiation exposure. This can help reduce the risk of sunburns, skin damage, and long-term health issues such as skin cancer. Increase your protection with hooded sun shirts.

5. Comfort and Performance: Quality safety-colored sun shirts are typically designed with lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics that keep workers cool, dry, and comfortable, even in hot and humid conditions. This can enhance employee morale and productivity by ensuring they remain focused and perform their tasks effectively.

6. Professional Image: Providing safety-colored sun shirts for your employees demonstrates your commitment to their safety and well-being, fostering a positive company culture and enhancing your business's reputation both internally and externally.

7. Brand Visibility: Customizing sun shirts with your company logo or branding elements can serve as a form of free advertising, increasing brand visibility and recognition among clients, customers, and the general public.

8. Cost Savings: While there may be an initial investment in purchasing safety-colored sun shirts, the long-term benefits, such as reduced accident rates, lower healthcare costs due to fewer sun-related illnesses or injuries, and improved employee retention, can result in significant cost savings for your business over time.

Overall, investing in safety-colored sun shirts for your business can contribute to a safer, healthier, and more productive work environment while also aligning with regulatory requirements and enhancing your brand image.

Brief Explanation of What Dye Sublimation Printing Is

Dye sublimation prints have distinct characteristics that make them unique and visually appealing:

Vibrant Colors:  Dye sublimation produces prints with vibrant and intense colors. The process allows for a wide color gamut, resulting in rich and saturated hues. This is particularly effective for reproducing intricate designs and photographs.

High Resolution:  Dye sublimation is capable of achieving high-resolution prints with sharp details and smooth gradients. The prints can capture fine lines and intricate patterns accurately.

Permanent and Fade-Resistant: The sublimation process embeds the dye particles into the fibers of the substrate, making the colors permanent and resistant to fading. This results in long-lasting prints that retain their vibrancy over time.

Smooth and Soft Finish: Dye sublimation prints have a smooth and soft finish because the dye becomes part of the material rather than sitting on top of it. This creates a comfortable feel, especially when applied to fabrics.

Photo-Realistic Quality:  The process excels at reproducing photo-realistic images. Dye sublimation is often used for printing high-quality photographs on various products, including apparel, home decor items, and promotional goods.

Common applications of dye sublimation printing include personalized apparel (such as sun shirts and T-shirts), promotional products, banners, flags, home decor items (like pillows and blankets), and more. The visual impact and durability of dye sublimation prints make them a popular choice for a wide range of products in the printing and customization industry.

Why Choose 50+ UPF Sun Shirts For Your Outdoor Business

 Five compelling reasons why UPF 50+ sun shirts are superior to cotton for working outdoors:

  1.  Enhanced Sun Protection: UPF 50+ sun shirts provide superior sun protection compared to cotton. The fabric is specifically designed to block harmful UV rays, preventing sunburn and reducing the risk of long-term skin damage. In contrast, traditional cotton shirts offer minimal protection against UV rays, leaving your skin vulnerable to sun exposure.

  2.  Moisture-Wicking and Quick-Drying: UPF 50+ sun shirts are often made from moisture-wicking fabrics that draw sweat away from your skin, promoting quick evaporation. This feature helps keep you dry and comfortable during outdoor work, preventing the discomfort and potential health risks associated with prolonged exposure to wet or sweat-soaked cotton clothing.

  3.  Cooling and Breathability: Many UPF 50+ sun shirts are designed with breathable materials that allow air circulation, helping to regulate body temperature. This feature is especially beneficial when working outdoors in warm conditions. Cotton, on the other hand, tends to absorb and retain moisture, potentially leading to discomfort and overheating.

  4.  Durability and Longevity: UPF 50+ sun shirts are often crafted from high-performance, durable materials that can withstand the rigors of outdoor work. These fabrics are designed to maintain their shape, color, and protective properties even after multiple washes. Cotton, while comfortable, may wear out more quickly and lose its shape and color over time, especially when subjected to the demands of outdoor labor.

  5.  Versatility Across Weather Conditions: UPF 50+ sun shirts are versatile and suitable for various weather conditions. Whether you're working under the scorching sun or facing unpredictable weather, these shirts provide consistent protection. Cotton, by contrast, may become heavy and uncomfortable when wet, potentially contributing to discomfort and making it less suitable for adverse weather conditions.

In summary, UPF 50+ sun shirts offer a comprehensive set of features, including superior sun protection, moisture-wicking properties, breathability, durability, and versatility, making them a practical and protective choice for those working outdoors.

The Sun-Savvy Solution: Long Sleeve Sun Shirts as Ideal Base Layers

 Title: The Sun-Savvy Solution: Long Sleeve Sun Shirts as Ideal Base Layers

Introduction

In the realm of outdoor adventures, selecting the right clothing can make all the difference in comfort and performance. While base layers are traditionally associated with insulation and moisture-wicking properties, the emergence of long sleeve sun shirts as base layer options has been a game-changer. These innovative garments not only provide a protective shield against harmful UV rays but also offer a range of benefits that make them ideal for use as base layers.

UV Protection: The Primary Advantage

One of the primary reasons why long sleeve sun shirts excel as base layers is their exceptional UV protection. These shirts are designed with specialized fabrics that boast a high Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF), effectively blocking the sun's harmful rays. Unlike traditional base layers, which focus on insulation, sun shirts prioritize safeguarding your skin from sunburn and long-term damage caused by prolonged exposure to UV radiation. Some brands of sun shirts offer a hooded option. This added sun protection makes them a must-have for outdoor enthusiasts who spend extended periods in the sun. Remember, the colder weather doesn't block those harmful UV rays.

Moisture Management and Cooling

Long sleeve sun shirts are crafted from advanced moisture-wicking materials that efficiently pull sweat away from the body. This feature ensures that even in the heat of the sun, you remain dry and comfortable. As base layers, these shirts help regulate body temperature by efficiently managing moisture, preventing the discomfort associated with sweat-soaked clothing. The breathability of these shirts is an added bonus, facilitating air circulation and promoting a cooling effect during strenuous activities.

Versatility in Various Environments

Base layers are often associated with cold weather activities, but long sleeve sun shirts break this mold by offering versatility across a range of environments. Whether you're hiking, climbing, cycling, or engaging in water sports, these shirts provide a protective base layer that adapts to different conditions. Their lightweight and quick-drying nature make them suitable for both hot and cool climates, offering a year-round solution for outdoor enthusiasts.

Comfort and Freedom of Movement

The design of long sleeve sun shirts prioritizes comfort and freedom of movement. The fabrics used are often lightweight, soft, and stretchy, allowing for unrestricted mobility. This is particularly advantageous for activities that involve dynamic movements, such as rock climbing or trail running. The ergonomic designs and flat-seam construction of these shirts minimize chafing and irritation, ensuring a comfortable experience throughout your outdoor pursuits.

Durability and Easy Care

Sun shirts are designed with durability in mind, capable of withstanding the rigors of outdoor adventures. The fabrics are often resistant to abrasions, tears, and exposure to the elements. Additionally, they are easy to care for, with many options being machine washable and quick to air dry. This durability and low maintenance make long sleeve sun shirts a practical choice for base layers, as they can endure the demands of frequent use in various conditions.

Conclusion

Hooded, long sleeve sun shirts have emerged as a smart and practical choice for base layers in the world of outdoor activities. Their UV protection, moisture management, versatility, comfort, and durability make them a valuable addition to the wardrobe of anyone who enjoys spending time outdoors. Whether you're embarking on a sunny hike, hitting the waves, or tackling a challenging climbing route, these sun-savvy base layers provide the protection and performance needed for a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

How Not To Ruin Your Sun Shirts In The Wash

 

I decided to write this post after listening to my brother complain about his kid's dri-fit uniforms. He was complaining that even after washing with detergent and softener, the shirts still smelled awful. He also complained of massive amounts static cling, the shirts would attract any sock or animal fur within 10 feet. Additionally he griped about the fabric becoming weak and coming out of the dryer with holes. I asked him if he was washing them like the instructions on the tag suggested,  his look suggested to me that was a "no". After I explained some things to him, laundry day has been a lot more pleasant. 

Below are some tips on caring for your UPF Sun Shirts, Dri-Fit, Rashguards, or any other quick dry, moisture wicking polyester apparel. 

Washing instructions for sun protection clothing, often made from UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) fabrics, can vary slightly depending on the specific garment and material. However, here are some general guidelines:

1. Check the Care Label: Always refer to the care label on the garment for manufacturer-specific instructions.

2. Use Mild Detergent: Wash your sun protection clothing with a mild detergent. Avoid using fabric softeners, bleach, or products with enzymes, as they may damage the fabric's anti-microbial and other protective properties.

3. Hand Wash or Gentle Cycle: If possible, hand wash your sun protection clothing. If using a washing machine, select the gentle cycle to minimize wear and tear on the fabric. The sun protection comes from the tightness of the weave. The more the fabric is stretched and twisted, the more the sun protection can be compromised.

4. Cold Water: Use cold water for washing. Hot water can damage the fabric and may reduce its effectiveness in providing sun protection.

5. Avoid Wringing: After washing, avoid wringing out the clothing, as this can damage the fibers. Instead, gently press out excess water. You can even set them outside and they'll be dry in about 20 minutes.

6. Skip the Dryer: It's generally recommended to air-dry sun protection clothing. High heat from the dryer can damage the fabric and compromise its UV protection. If you must use a dryer, use the lowest heat setting. This will also cause colossal supply of static cling

7. Store Properly: Store your sun protection clothing in a cool, dry place when not in use. Avoid leaving it in direct sunlight for extended periods, (days) as this can degrade the fabric over time.

Using these simple tips will help keep your UPF+50 sun shirts protecting your skin and looking great.

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Are Co-Branded Shirts Right For Your Company?

 Co-branding custom printed t-shirts can offer several advantages for the involved brands. Each brand can print their logo on different print locations of the shirt. For example one logo could be placed on the sleeve while the other is placed on the chest, or one logo on each sleeve. There are many options and many benefits of co-branding t- shirts:

1. Shared Costs: Collaborative efforts can lead to cost savings for both brands. Sharing production, marketing, and distribution expenses can be more cost-effective. You will be able to afford a higher quality shirt like a UPF+50 sun shirt or hoodie, or a larger quantity than if you are going it alone. Your employees will also appreciate the comfort and sun protection from first-rate sun shirts.

2. Expanded Market Reach: Co-branding allows brands to tap into each other's customer bases, increasing their exposure to potential customers who may not have otherwise been aware of their products.

3. Increased Credibility: Partnering with another established brand can enhance your brand's credibility and reputation. Customers may view your products more favorably if they associate them with a respected partner. As well as dressing your employees in higher quality apparel makes a huge impact on your customers.

4. Cross-Promotion: Co-branding can involve joint marketing efforts, where both brands promote the co-branded t-shirts through their marketing channels. This cross-promotion can lead to increased visibility and sales.

5. Targeted Marketing: By partnering with a brand that has a similar target audience, you can create a more focused marketing strategy, ensuring that your co-branded t-shirts resonate with a specific group of customers.

6. Strengthened Relationships: Collaborative projects can strengthen relationships between the brands and their customers. It can demonstrate that you are open to innovation and willing to provide unique experiences.

7. Increased Sales: The combined efforts of two brands can result in higher sales and revenue than either brand might achieve on its own. This can be especially advantageous for both parties.

8. Brand Association: Your brand can benefit from the positive associations consumers have with your partner's brand. If the partner brand is well-regarded, some of that goodwill can transfer to your brand as well.

However, it's essential to carefully select your co-branding partner and ensure that the collaboration aligns with your brand's values and objectives. A mismatched partnership could harm your brand's reputation rather than enhance it. Additionally, clear agreements and legal documentation are essential to protect the interests of both brands involved in the co-branding venture.

Benefits of Buying Custom Gear for Your Business

Investing in custom gear for your business can offer several benefits, including:

1. Brand Recognition: Custom gear can feature your company's logo, slogan, or design, increasing brand awareness and recognition. This can help you stand out in a crowded market and make a lasting impression on your customers.

2. Increased Employee Morale: Providing your employees with custom gear can boost morale and create a sense of team spirit. It also shows your employees that you appreciate their hard work and value their contribution to your business.

3. Professionalism: Custom gear can give your business a professional image and make your team look cohesive and put together. This can help to build trust with customers and establish your brand as a reliable and reputable business.

4. Marketing and Promotion: Custom gear can be used as a marketing tool to promote your business. You can give away promotional items at events, trade shows, or as part of a customer loyalty program, increasing your brand exposure and attracting new customers.

5. Cost-Effective: Custom gear can be a cost-effective way to promote your business, as it can be produced in bulk and distributed to customers and employees. It can also be used as a long-term investment, as it can be reused or worn multiple times.

Overall, investing in custom gear can be an excellent way to promote your business, build your brand, and increase customer loyalty and employee morale. 

Customizable Fishing Templates

Custom artwork can be a long and tedious process... not to mention expensive. B.L. Tees has come up with a solution, customizable templates. Our catalog includes artwork featuring saltwater and freshwater fish in nautical settings. We simply add your text and print the design on your choice of sun shirts. It's perfect for marinas, fishing charters, hotels, and fishing tournaments. Best of all it's a free service when used with B.L. Tees printing services. 

Some examples of the water color artwork is below.

Our catalog is growing larger each day, check it out.

If you've ever participated in a fishing contest or fun run, there's usually a team shirt involved. If you have 5 team members you'll have 5 opinions on how much you should be spending. Listen, we all want to save money but be aware of extra charges when cost cutting. You might save a little money on the cotton tee itself but after you add the set up costs of each color screen and cost per print, you might actually be spending more. No, I'm not putting down cotton shirts at all, I'm just saying that dri-fit sun shirts are better for active, outdoor events and are not going to empty your wallet. Make sure you are getting a quality sun shirt  that is rated UPF+50.

Screen printing is more cost-effective for larger quantities of shirts with simple designs and fewer colors. The initial set-up costs for screen printing can be higher than dye sublimation, but the cost per shirt decreases with larger quantities.

Dye sublimation, on the other hand, is better suited for smaller quantities of shirts with complex designs and many colors. We do not charge set up fees for dye sublimation but the cost for each print can be slightly higher.

In short, browse our website or contact us and we'll steer you in the right direction for all your apparel printing needs.

What to shop for in a base layer during the colder months.

Just because the temperature drops doesn't mean people are staying inside. Many are still out hiking, fishing, hunting, and other outdoor activities. You'll still have to protect yourself from the elements, and a good idea is to use a layer clothing system.

A good outer shell is recommended, along with a warmer mid layer. But some people forget how important the base layer is. This is the layer that is in contact with your skin so it's arguably the most important layer.

A good base layer would be made of a moisture management material . Wet clothing will not only keep you colder but will also cause more friction thus more discomfort and irritation. Make sure that your base is made of a quick drying material.

Keep in mind that the temperature may rise enough that you will strip down to only your base layer. The sun's harmful UV rays will still be damaging even in colder temperatures. Your base layer should be of a sun protectant material and we recommend a UPF +50. Find a base layer that is a comfortable weight while still providing adequate sun protection.

Some fabrics are odor-resistant and can be worn for days without washing. While this is not a major concern, your fellow travelers might appreciate if you wore clothing made with fibers that fight odors.

Whatever your outdoor adventure of the day is, just remember to put on a high quality base layer. It will keep your skin... and your friends happy.

 Here are some quality base layers at a great price.

Custom Printed Camo Sun Shirts

Many customers want full printed sleeves but due that requires pre printing the fabric before it is sewn into the shape of a shirt. This usually presents a problem for most buyers due to minimums and costs.

We now have a solution, pre-printed Camo Sleeves! These colored camo sleeves will get you noticed.

Choose from many different colors and still 50+ UPV sun protection.

These are available now on our online design tool.

Promoting Your Business With Swag

Any festivals, fairs, or business expos you attend, you're sure to end up with a bag of promtional products (AKA swag). Promotional products is a huge industry. Why is the industry thriving? Because logoed items like hats, T-shirts and bags are traveling advertisements that leave a lasting impression, making them crucial for building brand awareness. Every time you use a logoed canvas bag, can koozie, bottle opener, etc. You are reminded of that company's product.

Loyal customers love to show their support for their favorite brands buy buying swag. Some businesses might not have the man power, money, or time to sell their logoed products online. Well now B.L. Tees has a solution in our B2B program. We now can sell, print, and ship logoed apparel online without any effort from the brand's team. 

How it works is you contact a B2B rep and they'll walk you through the set up process. We set up a page dedicated to the brand on our multi vendor website. We have set prices for each apparel type and we mark up the retail price as much as you'd like. We process the fees and send you your cut at the end of the month. Companies have access to web analytics including traffic and sales volume.

Email us for the details.

Sizing Your Artwork for Custom Printed Shirts

What Size Should My Artwork Be?

https://www.blteeshirt.com/

Customers are always asking of what size their artwork should be. You don't need to read the print from across the street but you don't want to have to strain your eyes to read it either. Even though this is a matter of preference, there are some common measurements that you might be helpful in making your decision.
When choosing a left or right chest area, the most common size is between 3.5" to 4" across. If your artwork is taller then most customers stay within the 4" to 4.5" range.
If your artwork will be a full chest print, 12" is a popular size.
Back prints will usually be on the larger side, 12" to 13" across but shouldn't be larger that 15" in height.
Sleeve prints will usually be around 12"to 14" in height if you are printing text, artwork like a flag will be approx. 3"to 4" across.
Because artworks will be all shapes and sizes, these measurements are just guidelines and aren't written in stone. Use our online design tool to see what size would be to your liking, or we can mock up a virtual sample.
Our staff of graphic artists will be able to answer any questions you might have and help with any design issues you might have.

If you've ever worked with a graphic artists or any kind of designer, you know how tough it can be to explain what your visions of the project are. That's why we are creating a videos series to show you all the newest options in our online design lab. We call it a lab because now you can experiment with your designs, you're in charge of the design process. We've just added new artwork that you'll actually want to use. Not the run of the mill silhouette clip art, but full color professionally produced images. We've also added some new features that will allow you to enhance your text. You can add a shadow or a glow to the background. There's also an option to twist or turn the words so they will fit into a flag or banner image. Use a color fade to give your text a boost!

Below is our first in a series showing off the latest features. We will be uploading more videos and more artwork for you to use free of charge.

As always, please contact us with any questions you might have.

B.L. Tees Custom SPF Shirts