5 Features to Look for when Purchasing Down Pillows

Down pillows can bring a bland bedroom to life. Use them on your bed, and you’ll tap into a decorating technique utilized by many professionals, including those in the hotel industry. They make a great accent to your bedding. However, down pillows are expensive. If your budget allows for them, or if you can find used ones in decent condition, here are 5 features to look for when purchasing down pillows:

1. Size

When you’re looking for down pillows, and want them for decorating purposes, one of the primary features to consider is the size. These come in standard, queen and king size in the following dimensions:

• Standard: 20 inches long x 26 inches wide x 6 inches high
• Queen: 20 inches long x 30 inches wide x 6 inches high
• King: 20 inches long x 36 inches wide x 6 inches high

Vary the look on your bed by purchasing a couple of different sizes. If you like the effect of giant sized pillows and have limited funds to make the purchase, choose queen or king sized pillows only.

2. Firmness

Down pillows aid with decorating because of their style, and are available in a number of varieties. The primary function is that of a typical pillow, and which one you choose starts with your preference for firmness. Your choices are firm, medium or soft down pillows. Go with what you’re comfortable with, taking into account whether you like to prop up your legs with the pillows, lie on your stomach or on your back. Keep in mind that your head will sink into the down pillow, no matter how firm it is.

3. Materials

One way to lower your cost for down pillows is to choose ones made of a polyester and feather blend. Buy 50/50 blends if you don’t have allergies (to the feathers). Many down pillows go through a multi-step process to eliminate allergens and other contaminants, and you should look for those if you have sensitivities. Purchase down pillows made of 100 percent feathers if neither allergies nor money is a concern.

4. Thread Count

The higher the thread count on the down pillows, the higher the quality of pillow. Look for down pillows with thread counts that are at least 300 counts or higher. For example, Sears sells a Laura Ashley down pillow that has a 450 thread count, made with a windowpane weave. Hotels often use down pillows with thread counts that are 500 and up.

5. Cleaning Required

Down pillows are expensive, and the care and maintenance of them adds to your monthly cleaning bills. Some of them require a gentle spot cleaning with mild soap and water. However, many of them require dry cleaning. Decide if you have the money for an additional dry cleaning bill before you make a final decision.

Manufacturers and suppliers offer a few other features that are nice to have, but shouldn’t make a difference in your decision making purchase, such as the inclusion of a storage bag. Focus on the features described above and you’re sure to find down pillows that will work well for your bedroom.