subject: Goose down Comforters vs. Alternative Goose down Comforters [print this page]
A good comforter is an essential item for any comfortable bed. Goose down comforters are an especially popular type of comforter in many homes, though goose down alternatives offer many benefits for allergy sufferers. When choosing a comforter, consider factors such as cost, warmth and aesthetic appeal to help you make the right selection.
Goose down and Alternative Down:
Features: Contrary to popular belief, a goose down comforter is generally not filled with feathers. Instead it is filled with the soft, fluffy undercoating found beneath the feathers on ducks and geese. Alternative goose down comforters are filled with synthetic materials, like rayon or polyester, rather than traditional down. They may also use wool or cotton in place of goose down and synthetics. The exterior fabric on both of these types of comforters may be made from silk, cotton or synthetic blends.
Drawbacks: While goose down is very warm and comfortable, it can also be problematic for allergy sufferers. Some people may be allergic to the undercoating used to fill goose down comforters, while others are allergic to the dust mites that tend to live within the down. Alternative materials are usually much heavier than down, which can be uncomfortable for some people.
Benefits: One of the primary benefits to goose down is its superior level of warmth. No man-made material or alternative product has been found that can compare to goose down when it comes to warmth. Goose down is also breathable, which helps to wick moisture off the body. Goose down tends to hold its shape well and can be expected to last for many years. Goose down alternatives are safe for allergy sufferers, and are usually fairly resistant to water and moisture. Goose down alternatives keep their shape well, even when wet, and are machine-washable. Wool and synthetic comforters are also highly resistant to fire and dust mites.
Goose down Comforters vs. Alternative Goose down Comforters
