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Goose versus Duck Down

Obviously, we love both Geese and Ducks, and they both produce beautiful down feathers that provide luxurious warmth. Here is how they differ:

Geese are bigger than ducks and live in colder climates, which contributes to the larger size of their down clusters. Larger clusters result in greater insulation, called "fill power", and thus greater warmth.

Ducks are also much more plentiful making duck down more affordable, and their down ideal for warmer climates. Filled with premium high fill-power duck down and encased in a shell of smooth, cotton cambric, our lightweight duck down comforters create a layer of opulent, insulating warmth that's perfect for any season.

If comparing duck with geese down, please also compare fill power and fill weight. Typically, goose down is warmer than duck, even with the same fill weight.

Whatever products you choose from our site: you are guaranteed that all raw materials come from responsibly sourced farms, where animal cruelty has no place.

The Myth of Siberian Goose Down: down products marketed as "Siberian Goose Down" have become popular on the Internet and, even in some stores. To put it plainly, there is simply no such thing. Though it is a cold and snowy place, Siberia does not have a known down harvesting industry. And while there is in fact a bird named the Siberian Goose, it is an endangered rare species, which happens to have deep red breast feathers - not suitable for bedding products.

 


Icelandic Eiderdown, as found in our high quality Engmo Dun Comforters:

 

Icelandic Eiderdown refers to the soft and luxurious inner plumage of the eider duck (Somateria mollissima) that is collected from the nests of these birds, specifically in Iceland. Eider ducks are native to many northern coastal areas, including Iceland, and are known for their unique nesting habits.

 

The benefits of Icelandic Eiderdown lie primarily in its exceptional quality and warmth, making it highly valued as a material for luxury bedding products such as duvets, comforters, and pillows. Some of its benefits include:

 

Exceptional Insulation: Eiderdown has an incredibly high insulation capacity, providing warmth without adding significant weight. It's known for its ability to regulate body temperature by trapping and retaining heat while allowing moisture to evaporate, ensuring a comfortable sleep experience.

 

Lightweight Comfort: The lightweight nature of eiderdown makes it a popular choice for bedding products, as it offers warmth without the bulk or heaviness often associated with traditional comforters or duvets.

 

Softness and Loftiness: Eiderdown is exceptionally soft and retains its loftiness over time, creating a cloud-like sensation when used in bedding. This contributes to a luxurious and cozy sleeping environment.

 

Natural and Sustainable: Collecting eiderdown is done in a sustainable and eco-friendly manner. Eider ducks pluck down from their own breasts to line their nests, and this down is carefully collected after the nesting season, allowing the ducks to continue this behavior in subsequent years.

 

Hypoallergenic Properties: Eiderdown is often considered hypoallergenic due to its cleanliness and the thorough cleaning processes it undergoes during production. This can be beneficial for individuals with allergies or sensitivities.

 

Longevity: High-quality eiderdown products are durable and can last for many years with proper care. This longevity can make them a worthwhile investment.

 

Cultural and Artisanal Value: The collection of eiderdown has cultural significance in Iceland, as it has been a traditional practice for generations. It is often considered a unique and luxurious product due to its limited availability and the artisanal craftsmanship involved in its processing.

 

It's important to note that Icelandic Eiderdown is a premium and luxury product, and as such, it tends to come with a higher price tag compared to other bedding options. Its rarity and the labor-intensive process of collecting and processing the down contribute to its exclusivity. When considering purchasing eiderdown products, it's advisable to research reputable sources to ensure you are getting an authentic and high-quality product.