As you shop for feather pillows, it's important to consider many factors such as learning how to get the best quality pillow for the best price.
About Feather Pillows
Feathers and down are the most comfortable and luxurious options for pillow filling and have been used for centuries. You'll find a great deal of variations in quality and price for feather pillows; however, it's easy to find several options in the $50 to $150 price range. Most pillows contain feathers from ducks and geese.
Advantages of Feather-Filled Pillows
Feather pillows have the following advantages:
- They typically last longer than synthetic ones, often wearing well for ten years or more.
- These pillows are very soft and will conform to the shape of your neck and head. This makes them ideal for people who sleep on their stomachs.
- It's easy to care for feather pillows. Most, but not all, can be machine-washed and dried. Check the care instructions for your pillow before tossing it into the wash.
- These pillows are lightweight, making them perfect for travel.
Disadvantages of Feather-Filled Pillows
Before investing in a feather-stuffed pillow, keep the following disadvantages in mind:
- Some people feel that feather pillows carry an odor. This may be due to chemical processing used to sanitize the feather pillows or possibly to sanitize the feathers themselves.
- When squeezing the pillow, you will notice the hard parts of the feathers. These quills can even poke through the casing of the pillow.
- If you are prone to neck problems, a feather pillow may not offer enough support.
- Many people are allergic to feather or down-filled pillows. If you have this sensitivity, consider a pillow that has a hypoallergenic outer covering.
- When compared to synthetic pillows, feather pillows can seem expensive. However, since they last a long time, they may be worth the money.
Where to Buy
Looking for a good deal on a feather pillow? Watch for sales at your local home store, and keep an eye out for deals at Internet bedding shops. The following online stores offer feather pillows:
Before You Buy
If you plan to buy a feather pillow, make sure you consider these tips as you shop:
- Choose a pillow that is the appropriate size for your bed and body. A small person may prefer a smaller pillow size while a large person might be most comfortable with a king-sized version. If you have a double or queen size bed, a standard size pillow is probably your best choice.
- Examine the ticking, or fabric casing of the pillow. When a pillow has a feather filling, this ticking is very important. A well-stitched, high-quality case will keep the feathers from poking through the material. Look for a cloth that has a tight weave, and make sure that the seams are secure. Double-stitched seams are the best choice.
- Invest in a protective pillow cover. This plain, zippered case protects your pillow while inside your pillowcase. It will help keep your pillow clean and reduce the number of times you'll need to wash the pillow since over time, washing can degrade the quality of the feathers.
- Consider a combination of feathers and down. These combination pillows offer the best of both worlds, providing a soft but substantial place to rest your head.
