What Is the Best Type of Down Comforter?

Goose Down

• Goose down is the most common, and generally more expensive type of down comforters available. Goose down ranges from Canadian, to Hungarian, to Siberian. In all three types, the down is made of the light, soft clusters of filaments found under the feathers of goose. The down keeps warm air next to the bird's skin, keeping the animal warm, especially in cold water. Because down acts as a good insulator, it makes a generous fill for warm comforters and throws.

Duck Down

• Duck down is often less expensive than goose down due to a lower fill amount. Higher fill amounts drive up the price of a down comforter. Nevertheless, duck down still provides a generous amount of warmth during winter months, similar to goose down. Duck down is also very popular and commonly used during spring and summer months by those who do not prefer puffier, and therefore, warmer comforters. Because duck down is generally a lightweight fill, duck down comforters can be ideal blankets for warmer weather.

Hypoallergenic and Hypodown

• Typically, those who have allergic reactions to down comforters do not react to allergens in the down; more likely, they have a reaction to the dirt and contamination that down comforters (goose and duck especially) can attract. Hypoallergenic down comforters are made up of synthetic materials, and also contain a high cleanliness count. This means the materials in the down have low oxygen numbers, and attract less dirt, fragments of dust, and other particles from air that may cause allergies. Hypodown comforters, in contrast, are made of milkweed, a plant native to the United States. Fibers in milkweed help trap and eliminate dust, dander, and other particles that may cause allergy problems.

Wool Down

• Wool down is as warm as a waterfowl down, but is composed of less fill material. With less fill, it is unlikely for people who use wool down comforters to become overheated, and can be used in the winter and summer months. Wool down (alpaca, sheep, and llama) is also hypoallergenic and dust-mite resistant. The animals are not treated with pesticides, and no alternative bleaches or dyes are used for manufacturing. In addition, wool down is biodegradable and is a fire retardant.