Interesting Facts About Down and Feather Pillows

Down pillows are filled with the smaller, softer feathers that are found on a goose or duck's chest or belly, under the outer layer of feathers. Down is a bird's insulation. If you've ever worn a down jacket or vest, you know how warm this material keeps you. It returns to its original shape easily. A feather pillow contains the larger, flat, external feathers. These have hard shafts than run down their center. As a feather pillow is used, the stuffing tends to flatten. The quills can stick out through the cover and poke you. Read this informative article and find out more interesting facts about down and feather pillows.

From Then 'Til Now

In early times, people used rocks, pieces of wood, bundles of grass, and straw-filled sacks as pillows before the comfort of down and feather pillows was discovered. Today, besides bed pillows, there are orthopedic and decorative pillows. Down and feather pillows are so versatile that they can fit in all three categories. In fact, down and feather pillows are considered to be the best-of- the-best.

Down and Feather Pillows and Allergies

Another interesting fact is, people miss out on the comfort of these pillows because of feather allergies. Studies show that some people may not actually be allergic to feathers, but rather to dust mites that accumulate because the pillows aren't cleaned regularly. People who are truly allergic can use non-allergen pillow covers to avoid health problems.

Down or Feather? How to Choose Which One's Right for You

Pillows that are stuffed with down are softer. They compress easier than the larger feathers, and regain their shape with a quick fluff. If you sleep on your stomach, choose a down pillow. If you sleep on your side or back, then a feather pillow is what you need. Feather pillows are firmer and provide more support. An advantage that down and feather pillows have is, you can move the stuffing around to provide the support where you need it.

No More Feather Pricks

In the old days, it was considered to be good luck if a few feathers popped out of the ticking while you were sleeping. The quills of the feathers sticking out of the ticking have long been a downside. According to MarthaStewart.com, if the pillow cover has a thread count of at least 260, you won't feel any pricks.

Long-Lasting

Another interesting fact about feather pillows is, they last a long time. The average lifespan of a down-filled pillow is 5 to 10 years. A feather pillow can last 8 to 10 years, while a polyester pillow may hold-up for 2 years max.

Resources

http://www.royalpillow.com/featherfacts.asp

http://www.duvetandpillowwarehouse.co.uk/blog/2009/06/facts-about-goose-feather-pillows/

http://articles.latimes.com/print/2000/dec/30/home/hm-6220

http://www.webmd.com/sleep-disorders/features/snuggle-up-with-the-perfect-pillow?page=2

http://www.shopdownlite.com/down_pillow_buying_guide.php

http://www.marthastewart.com/265286/pillows-101