Down is known for its superior insulation properties and you will find that the likes of goose down duvets and pillows are some of the best you can buy. However, duck down bedding also has its advantages and all of this should be considered.
If you've decided to purchase a down product, you can be assured that you are choosing a quality material to fill your coat, duvet or pillows.
However, there is a lot of choice when it comes to purchasing down, and it can be challenging to know which type is right for you. Most down options come from ducks and geese.
When comparing these two types of down, you're probably wondering what the difference is and is one better than the other?
In this guide, we'll run through everything you need to know when comparing duck and goose down options for bedding.
What Is Down?
Down is a super-soft material sourced from ducks and geese, found underneath birds' outer feathers. Down is renowned for its fluffiness and thermal qualities and is used to fill coats, pillows, duvets and more.
It has many characteristics that make it a superior filling, including superb insulation properties, exceptional comfort and high-quality durability. Choosing any down-filled product will give you exceptionally soft and comfortable bedding.
However, down will differ depending on which bird the feathers are sourced from and the region of the world.
What Are The Differences Between Duck Down And Goose Down?
You may not have known that there was more than one type of down. In fact, there are various downs from different birds as well as from many countries around the world, all with their own properties.
Varieties of down differ in price, comfort and insulation, among other distinctions. Of all the types of down available, goose down is considered the premium filling.
When comparing duck and goose down, there are many things worth considering. The most common questions are:
- Which offers the best insulation?
- Which is more comfortable?
- Is duck or goose down more expensive?
- Which type of down is more resilient and lasts longer?
Which Down Offers The Best Insulation?
All down products have extremely good insulating properties, keeping you cosy through the night. You may have come across the term 'fill power' in down product descriptions.
The higher the fill power, the better insulation the down provides. Goose down has larger clusters than duck down, giving it a higher fill power. This means that goose down will keep you even warmer throughout the winter.
Is Duck Down Or Goose Down More Comfortable?
All down-filled products are known for being exceptionally soft and comfortable. However, goose down pillows and duvets are considered to be the more luxurious choice.
In every 30 grams of goose down, there are around two million fluffy fibres. These fibres mesh together, forming insulating air pockets. These are what keep your bedding so soft and comfortable.
What Type Of Down Is More Expensive?
Duck down is the more affordable choice for a high-quality filling in your bedding or winter jacket. In contrast, goose down is usually more costly. Goose down varieties, such as Hungarian and Siberian goose down, are usually the most expensive options on the market.
Is Duck Down Or Goose Down More Durable?
When choosing between duck and goose down products, you probably want to know which down is more resilient and will last longer. While duck down is typically the more economical choice, it is also less durable.
If you purchase pillows filled with cheaper down, don't be surprised if they begin to lose their shape over time. Goose down is known for its durability and retains its quality for a longer time. Products which use goose down are sure to regain their original bounce and form after a night's sleep for many years.
