Comforters filled with down, often called Duvets, with duvet covers can feel like a blessing which will enhance your bedroom decor and your sleep experience. Or, they can feel like a curse! Some of us may find that allergies to natural down will give us severe problems. But those of us who want the comforter without the hives or other allergic reactions have hope. Alternative Down Comforters provide the solution
A practical solution to down comforters in the case of allergies are the wide variety of comforters made with synthetic down-like material. They are also superior in cases where they will be washed frequently. And they are a far superior choice to the layer upon layer of blankets often found in bedrooms where warmth is a necessity.
The question is, how can I be sure an alternative comforter is a quality product. Actually, the answer is quite simple, or at least comparable to the questions one asks when purchasing a down or feather duvet and a cover.
The first question deals with the fibers used in a duvet. Fibers in a synthetic duvet are ordinary, slick or cluster. Ordinary fibers are cheap and are not allergenic. A slick fiber provides better insulation than an ordinary one and are a middle of the road choice. A Cluster fibers goal is to recreate the effect of goose down. Fibers are not stuck in one place but instead are spread everywhere in the duvet. The higher the thread count on the duvet, the better it will stand up to wear and washing.
Next is the question of care. Generally you must follow the manufacturers instructions. Can they be washed? Yes. Note that although they are machine washable, the garment must not be squashed in your washer or dryer. It may be necessary to use a commercial washer & dryer to keep your duvet in its optimum condition. Again Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for care of their specific product.
I never recommend dry cleaning for duvet. The dry cleaner’s chemicals are quite harsh. Again, the manufacturer’s instructions are paramount. They should be stored in breathable bags. When they are taken out of storage, they need to be shaken to allow fluffing of the fibers. Extended time spent in a compressed state is not recommended.
The amount of filling in a duvet is called the duvet’s density. Heavier duvets have higher density and they will tend to last longer than lower density products. Also, high density allows the filling to stay more evenly spread out. Thread count is the count of threads per square inch of cloth fabric. High thread count is a more tightly woven fabric and will feel softer to the touch.
Hypo-allergenic products have a decreased ability to start an allergic reaction. Care is taken during the manufacture of these products to reduce allergy problems.
Learn more about Alternative Down Comforters. Stop by James Hamel’s site where you can find out all about Comforters and what it can do for you.
