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Home Decorating Information and Care Guide

You are here: Top of Site | Home Decorating Information and Care Guide | Down and Feather Information

What is the difference between down and feather?

The following information is from our manufacturer:

Down Products:

Down is the soft fluffy undercoating that traps the body's naturally warmth. The down grows next to the body of the goose or duck underneath the protective layer of feathers. Each down cluster is made up of thousands of soft fibers radiating in all directions from a central point. The down cluster is three dimensional and does not contain a quill shaft. Because of this structure down clusters can loft without matting together. Lofting or filling up space is what creates trapped air and keeps us warm. Synthetic fibers are homogeneous and often mold together and clump.

Down clusters allow our natural body heat to keep us warm while allowing moisture to escape, therefore providing a level of comfort that is unsurpassed.

Feather Products:

Feathers provide a protective layer over the down. Feathers are structurally different and therefore functionally different than down. Feathers are two dimensional and have a shaft. While the structure of down provides for greater lofting and insulating value, the structure of feathers provide for a greater support. Feathers still have the soft natural fluffy feeling while having a spring-like quality to provide resilience and support. Feathers are ideal for cushions in upholstery, featherbeds, and for those who prefer firmer pillows.

Alternatives:

We are proud to offer a line of hypoallergenic down alternatives - PrimaLoft
Perfect for sensitive sleepers, it offers a similar level of comfort and warmth as down and is treated to be extremely easy to care for - and also to inhibit the growth and presence of bacteria and other allergy-causing agents.

Visit our Down Comforter section or visit our Down and Feather Pillow section.

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