Wool or feather?
We have learnt so much on this bed journey. Some things that have been life-changing and some things we wish we could have remained blissfully unaware. Like what is actually released into a mattress from the human body, and don’t get us started on hotel beds. So let’s focus on the former. We thought we would discuss a topic that, from our experience, lots of people are not aware of. And once they become aware, the light bulb goes on.
So, all of us here at Comfi used to only have feather duvets in the house. They look really scrumptious and inviting; they fluff and look picture perfect. However, upon learning about the qualities of wool, we have all (yes ALL three families) switched to wool duvets for their superiority to feathers.
What are the benefits of a wool duvet?
1. Amazing temperature regulation
One of the number one reasons why we rate wool duvets so highly is that they keep you just the right temperature all night. And if you sleep next to someone else, they keep you both at the temperature that suits you as an individual – it’s like sleeping in your own little microclimate.
2. Great breathability and moisture management
If you tend to sleep hot, a wool-filled duvet is the ideal choice for you. Wool provides excellent breathability and moisture management, which helps minimize the chances of overheating and sweating. Additionally, if you do get warm during the night, wool can help you cool down more quickly.
3 . Naturally hypoallergenic
Wool is naturally hypoallergenic without any chemicals being added to prevent this. This is because the filling naturally repels dust mites. Unlike feather/down and synthetic bedding, which can be a breeding ground for dust mites, wool is uninhabitable for these pests due to its naturally dry environment, creating a cleaner and more hygienic sleep.
4. Requires less care
The needle-punched wool blanketing of the Wisewool duvets, combined with the channel quilting, means the fill will not shift or clump, eliminating cold spots and ensuring a longer lifespan than a regular duvet. They are also machine washable, but airing and sunshine work wonders to keep the duvet performing at its best. We truly believe these are the best duvets ever!.
5. Sustainable
A wool-filled duvet is one of the most environmentally friendly choices you can make. That's because wool is sustainable – a sheep is sheared and then its wool grows back. This fibre is also biodegradable, so at the end of the duvet's lifespan it will rot safely into the ground rather than hanging around in a landfill emitting harmful chemicals like a synthetic duvet.
Disadvantages
There is just not as much loft as there is in a feather duvet. Personally, given all the positive qualities of a wool duvet, we would be happy to forgo the plump look and have a beautiful quilt at the end of our beds instead (see Foxtrot Home or Thread Design for their stunning quilts).
What are the benefits of feather and down duvets?
1. Super Squishy
If you're looking for a super luxurious feeling duvet, then feather and down creates some of the most plumptious duvets around. The higher the mix of down to feathers the more cloud-like the duvet will become.
2. Insulating
A feather and down duvet – particularly one with a high down mix – can be very insulating, that means they're a good choice for cold sleepers who want a duvet that will keep them super toasty at night.
3. Biodegradable
It may not have the same sustainability as wool, but after your feather and down duvet has come to the end of its life, it won’t leave a trace behind.
Disadvantages of feather and down duvets
Now this is where it gets interesting, as you will see that there are in fact a few more disadvantages to a feather and down duvet compared to a wool one.
1. Can cause overheating
While feather and down duvets will offer warmth and softness, the fibres are not breathable, so they will trap in heat and humidity as you sleep, making you more likely to wake up feeling too hot.
2. Not hypoallergenic
Sleeping with these fibre types creates humidity, attracting house dust mites. This means they require more frequent washing and may worsen allergy symptoms.
3. Higher maintenance
Requires careful cleaning and is sensitive to moisture. Also requires more fluffing to ensure the even spread of feathers and down.
FEATURES |
WOOL |
FEATHER AND DOWN |
|
Ultimate Temperature Regulation |
Excellent for all seasons |
Best for cold climates; retains heat |
|
Moisture Management |
Superior; wicks moisture effectively |
Less effective, can feel damp |
|
Hypoallergenic |
Yes; resists allergens |
No, may harbour allergens |
|
Care Requirements |
Low maintenance, durable |
Requires careful cleaning; sensitive to moisture |
|
Ideal For |
Hot sleepers and allergy sufferers |
Cold Sleepers |
So, call us biased, but unless you live in extremely cold climates, we would back a wool duvet any day of the week.