How to Buy a Goose-Down Pillow

Goose-down pillows feel luxurious.

Goose-down pillows are preferred by many people who want a soft, yet supportive place to lay their heads every night. Like any other pillow, the goose-down pillow you choose must be comfortable while relieving stress on your neck. Consider, too, that down pillows flatten over time, so buying a pillow that is firmer than what you really want may be the best way to guarantee a perfect pillow after the break-in period.

Instructions

1. Choose the amount of down that you want in your pillow. This is described as "fill power." A larger fill power -- 700 to 800 -- is more durable and long-lasting than a lower fill power. A higher fill power means that the down cluster is larger, is a higher-quality down and will retain its loft and firmness longer.

2. Choose the firmness of your pillow. Those who sleep on their backs may need firmer pillows than those who sleep on their stomachs, because their heads are propped up. Pillows that are made of goose down are softer than those made of goose down and feathers.

3. Decide what pillow size you need. A standard-size bed pillow is the type you see on most beds, and it provides a good amount of pillow for sleeping. Those who fold their pillows or lie on them may need a larger size.

4. Ensure that the pillow is a high-quality down, rather than just goose feathers. The down comes from underneath the goose, whereas the feathers come from all over the goose and aren't quite as soft as the down.

References

• Plumeria Bay: How to Choose a Down Pillow
• Down and Feather Company: How to Choose Pillows