Down vs. Feather Pillows: What's the Difference?
Written by Mehran Uzair
Last Updated on Aug 08, 2022
People usually get confused between down and feather pillows and consider them to be the same. However, they are two different and luxe variants that can offer you a deep peaceful sleep. So, what’s the difference between down vs feather pillows? While down pillow fills are made from the feather cluster from the chest or underbelly of geese or a duck, a feather pillow uses feathers from wings and back. But there is so much more to it. Read to find out!
What are Down Pillows?
The word ‘down’ refers to the inner feathers present in a goose or duck's underbelly or chest area. So as aforementioned, down fills are quill-less feather clusters from birds. They are incredibly soft and almost feel like you are sleeping on cotton candy!
While the clusters get compressed as you lie down, you can always opt for a higher loft. Down pillows are considered the epitome of luxury, and rightly so because of the coziness they offer you.
What are Feather Pillows?
Unlike down pillows, they are pillows filled with feathers. These pillows are made from the feathers acquired from geese and ducks' wings and back. However, these feathers come with quills. So, when the cushion wears down over time, there are chances that the quills poke you while you are asleep.
But to avoid this, most feather pillows have some down fills to offer optimal comfort. So, if you are wondering, are feather pillows good? Well, it depends on your preference.
Down vs. Feather Pillows
Now that you know what down and feather pillows are, let’s take a look at their main differences.
| Parameters | Down Pillows | Feather Pillows |
|---|---|---|
| Softness | Fluffy and soft | Less softer |
| Structure | Clustered structure | Bit loose and gets compressed |
| Fill Power | Highest number is 850 Average fill power is 500 and anything above 650 is optimal | Not applies to feather pillows |
| Origin | Best ones come from Hungary | Best ones come from Hungary |
Why Buy a Down Pillow?
There are several advantages it brings you when it comes to down pillows. They include;
Softness: When you lie down on a down pillow, it feels like you are sleeping on a fluffy cloud. So even if you are someone who tosses and turns throughout the night, the structure of the pillow remains fluffy and stays that way the whole night.
Dependability: The quality of down pillows is almost the same throughout its variants. It offers you optimal comfort and lets you enjoy a cozy slumber throughout your sleep cycle.
Warmth: Down pillows can keep you warm and are an excellent choice if you live in colder climates. However, down pillows are also very breathable and can prevent uncomfortable humidity.
Durability: Down pillows offer good longevity and can last up to 5-10 years.
Why Is Down Preferred Over Feathers?
One of the key reasons that down pillows are preferred over feather pillows is their comfort. Down pillows are quill-less, hence, you don’t have to worry about them poking you when you are in a deep state of sleep. And the other advantage is that down pillows are durable. So you don’t have to worry about them wearing out. However, you will have to take care of them properly so they perform to their full potential.
Down Alternative Pillows
If the advantages down pillows bring you are something you enjoy but are looking for an animal-friendly option, a down alternative can be an excellent choice. Made from synthetic polyester, these pillows mirror all the benefits of a down pillow and are also hypoallergenic. So, if you are someone suffering from allergies, this is a wonderful option for you.
Down alternative pillows are very easy to maintain and can be easily washed in a washing machine, unless the care label says otherwise. Down alternatives are also cheaper compared to a down pillow and they start from $60 whereas a down pillow starts from $130.
When it comes to choosing between down vs feather pillows, take a look at all the advantages it brings you, and then proceed from there. Make sure that the pillow you choose fits your sleep needs seamlessly.
