What’s the difference between British Wool, Duck Down & Feather, and synthetic duvets?

Each filling type offers distinct characteristics suited to different preferences:

British Wool Duvets (like our lightweight wool duvet) actively regulate temperature through thermoregulation, wicking moisture exceptionally well and naturally resisting dust mites without washing. Wool adapts dynamically within its tog range. Ideal for those with allergies, night sweats, or who want the most sustainable option. Requires minimal maintenance beyond regular airing.

Duck Down & Feather Duvets (this duvet) provide traditional insulating warmth with characteristic softness and comforting weight. The 85/15 feather-to-down ratio creates loft and structure. More breathable than synthetics but less adaptive than wool. Perfect for those who want classic duvet feel with genuine warmth. Machine washable for practical maintenance. Best for cooler sleepers who appreciate reassuring weight.

Synthetic Duvets are affordable and easily washable but trap heat and moisture, lack natural breathability, and compress quickly losing effectiveness. Not recommended if you have a natural fibre mattress or sleep warm.

Why 85% feather rather than higher down content?

Higher down content increases cost significantly whilst the performance improvement is marginal for most sleepers. The 85/15 ratio provides excellent insulation, proper loft, and that reassuring weight many people find comforting. Pure down duvets are exceptionally lightweight, which some people dislike as they can shift or feel insubstantial. Our ratio delivers optimal balance of warmth, weight, and value.

Will I be too warm under a 10.5 tog duvet?

The 10.5 tog rating is medium warmth, suitable for most people during autumn and spring. If your bedroom is well-insulated and maintained above 18°C, or if you naturally sleep very warm, you might prefer our lightweight wool duvet instead. The natural breathability of feather and down prevents the suffocating feel synthetic duvets can create. Most customers find 10.5 tog comfortable for much of the year.

How does duck down compare to goose down?

Goose down clusters are slightly larger and provide marginally better loft per weight, but duck down offers exceptional performance at lower cost. For most sleepers, the difference is imperceptible. We’ve chosen quality duck down and feather because it delivers outstanding warmth and comfort without the significant price premium goose down commands. Unless you’re seeking the absolute lightest weight possible, duck down represents better value.

Can this duvet be washed at home?

Yes, absolutely. Machine wash at 40°C in a large capacity machine using mild detergent. Tumble dry on low heat, removing periodically to shake and redistribute fill. Avoid fabric softeners which can coat feathers and reduce loft. Proper washing and thorough drying actually help maintain performance by removing body oils and dust. Many customers wash quarterly and find the duvet performs beautifully year after year.

Will feathers poke through the cover?

Our down-proof cotton cover prevents feather migration. The 233 thread count creates a tight weave that contains even the finest down clusters whilst maintaining breathability. Properly constructed feather duvets don’t have issues with protruding quills. If you’ve experienced this with cheap duvets previously, it’s due to inferior covers and construction, not inherent to feather filling.

Is this suitable for people with allergies?

Many allergy sufferers use feather and down duvets successfully with regular washing. The down-proof cotton cover prevents dust mites from penetrating into the fill. Regular washing at 40°C and thorough drying removes allergens effectively. However, some individuals have specific allergies to feather proteins. If you’ve experienced genuine feather allergy (not just dust mite reactions in poorly maintained duvets), our British wool duvet would be more appropriate.

How long will this duvet last?

With proper care, including regular washing and adequate drying, quality duck down and feather duvets can last 10-15 years or more. The natural resilience of feathers and down means they bounce back after compression far better than synthetic fills that flatten permanently. We provide a five-year guarantee, but customers regularly report using their duvets for much longer. This longevity makes natural fills excellent value despite higher initial cost.

Can I pair this with other duvets?

Yes, our duvets can be joined using linking systems to create customised warmth levels. Pair the 10.5 tog with a 4.5 tog to create a 15 tog winter duvet, or use them separately as seasons change. This flexibility allows you to adapt to varying temperatures without purchasing multiple standalone duvets. Contact our team about compatible weights and linking options.