We’ve analyzed reviews for the most popular down pillows available on the market(read about our accurate unbiased method), compared side-by-side, and scored according to a range of factors including comfort, pain relief potential, durability, initial odor and heat retention ability.
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| Date Reviewed | February 11, 2015 | February 11, 2015 | February 11, 2015 | ||||||
| Scores | Pacific Coast Double Down-Around Pillow | White Goose Feather and Goose Down Pillows | Natural Comfort Classic White Goose Down Feather Pillow | ||||||
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What you should know
Down pillows are cases that have been stuffed with soft down feathers, which are taken from ducks or geese. This ensures that the pillow is incredibly soft, comfortable and warm for the user. They are also supportive, and last longer than traditional pillows.Fill power and firmness
These pillows are available in both single and dual shells, which help to make them far more durable, protecting the feathers from oil that leaves the users face and hair. The fill power of this pillow is represented by loft, quality and how long it will retain its firmness.
When a pillow has a higher fill power, it will last far longer, and remain firm for many years. These pillows do vary, and it will depend on the bird that the feathers came from initially. If there are large down clusters, the quality will be higher. This will also indicate that the feather were from a mature bird, and will be better at insulating.
Cleaning and Maintenance
You will need to wash the pillows at some point, and this can be off-putting due to the odor that occurs after washing. The smell is natural, and will vanish as long as you dry the pillows correctly after washing.
If your pillow has no rips or holes then you can machine wash, using a mild detergent and a program designed for down products. Pillows that are damaged can be spot cleaned with a wet cloth, before leaving to dry naturally.
The drying process is vital, and you need to make sure that you are patient, and allow the pillows to dry 100% before placing them back on your bed. Moisture can be devastating for your pillow, and can cause mildew and mold to grow on the feathers.
Ideally you want to dry the pillow outside in the sun for a whole day, if not longer, before fluffing and returning to your bed. You may want to use a dryer on a cool setting, but the pillow will need several hours drying this way.
Health and Safety of a Down Pillow
Hypoallergenic down pillows are available as many people are allergic to feathers making this style impossible to have on your bed. Often it is the particles that are produced from the feathers that cause an allergic reaction.
With the unique covers that are made for the pillows, you will be able to use the it without fear of allergies. Particles will not be able to escape through the cover; however, if you are incredibly sensitive, you may be better to choose another style of pillow.
Acne sufferers are often concerned that these pillows causing their outbreaks, however, as with all pillows they need washing regularly. If you are allergic to feathers you will have problems, but other people can use the pillows with confidence.
Asthma sufferers will also be safe to use these pillows as long as they are washed regularly, and dried correctly before use. These pillows are excellent if you suffer with eczema, and is the chosen filing for this form of skin problem.
They are also brilliant at helping with headaches as they will encourage you to lie in the correct position. They are beneficial for your back and neck, and will ensure that you have a decent night’s sleep. They contain no flame retardant chemicals, ensuring that you are not in danger when you sleep; however, they do attract dust mites.
Guide to the usage of Your down Pillow
If you are a natural side sleeper, you will discover that it help to support your neck and head without the need to fluff. A small percentage of people state that the pillows makes you hot, but on the whole the pillow is incredibly comfortable and do not flatten.
Lifespan of the Down Pillow
The lifespan of these pillows if cared for correctly is between 15-20 years, which is excellent. To help prolong the life of the pillow, you should ensure that you wash it regularly, and dry it correctly before returning to the bed.
As with all pillows these can wear out over time, which is why you should have it in a pillow protector. The down pillows can be placed in a dryer, on a cool setting, and can be washed in the machine on a distinct down program.