Down and Feathers – What’s the difference?

The outer protective covering and decorative plumage of birds like geese and ducks are the Feathers.  These give the birds the ability to fly as well as being water repellent. The fluff clusters under the feathers is Down and this provides the insulation that keeps the birds warm. Down is about 15% of the bird’s feather weight and is located on the bird’s bellies. Feathers, unlike down, are not washable (they repel water).

For what should you be looking before purchasing a Down or Feather product?

Fill Power describes the quality of the down. Higher fill power gives you a lighter weight product with better insulation. For the purposes of comparison take two comforters, i.e.: 50 ounces of 575+ fill power down; 30 ounces of 700+ fill power down.  Although the 700 fill power product will be lighter, they will both keep you equally warm. The 575 fill power product will be less expensive.

Thread Count is the number of threads per square inch of the outer fabric or Ticking. The higher thread counts (the more tightly woven) keep dirt from getting in and down or feathers from getting out.

Baffling is a type of construction. Cloth is sewn into the walls to keep the down or feathers in place so that no cold spots are created.

Should I use a Duvet Cover/Pillow Case?

Probably a good idea! Protecting your Down product is key to its long life. Frequent washing of down is not recommended. If you should choose to wash your product, please use a front loading washer with low sudsing detergent. Rinse twice and then use a high capacity dryer on low heat. Take all the time you need to dry completely or the down could develop mold.  

What about Size?

It is very important to take measurements of your bed before ordering. Due to health issues, we cannot take these products back (See Shipping Rules). Look for the comforter or pillow that will most closely match your bed size and perhaps even plan for a little overlap.