How to Select Down Products

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Down comes from ducks and geese. To be called down, the Federal Trade Commission says the fill must have at least 75 percent down clusters. The rest can be down and feather fibers and small feathers. One down comforter provides the warmth of a dozen wool blankets because it draws moisture from your skin, so you don't overheat. So, let's find out how to buy the right down.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

How to Select Down Products

Step1

Know your fill power. The higher the fill power, the warmer you will stay. Light comforters have a 600 fill power; warmer ones can exceed 800. You can change comforters with the seasons if you wish.

Step2

Avoid allergies. Properly processed down is thoroughly washed and sanitized, so it should be free of 99 percent of natural allergens. Tightly woven casings add another barrier of protection. There are down alternatives if you are allergic to down.

Step3

Anything down filled should have a tight casing that does not allow feathers to poke through. Add duvet covers and pillow covers to keep down protected and clean longer.

Step4

Keep feathers in their place. When selecting comforters, be sure there are boxes sewn through the comforter so the down does not shift. Some down pillows are dual wrapped so they better hold their shapes.

Step5

Handle down with care. Do not use regular laundry detergent, but a small spoonful of a dishwashing detergent. Before washing your down, be sure your washer is up for it. Don't dry clean your down. When drying, use a low heat. A high heat can scorch the casing. Shake it during the drying cycle so it dries evenly.

Step6

Know when your down is dead. Down lasts longer then synthetic fibers, but a well used pillow will break down over time. If it doesn't fluff or have any loft left, it's time to let go.