REST ASSURED: HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT DUVET
REST ASSURED: HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT DUVET
We spend a third of our lives sleeping, so it’s definitely in our best interests to get the most out of it. Experts agree that one of the best ways to improve our quality of sleep is to choose the right bedding. But, when one weighs up the whole business of feathers versus fillings and togs versus ticking, buying the perfect duvet can become a minefield. Here, our guide on what to look for when in the market for a new duvet.
What filling should I get?
Natural down (goose or duck) and feather fillings are by far a superior choice to synthetics. For one thing, the light, fluffy filaments of the feathers or down trap air, providing warmth while still being lightweight and easily springing back into shape when compressed. For another, down and feathers have a better wicking capacity than synthetics – in other words, they are better able to allow moisture to escape. Down is generally more expensive than feather fillings, but combination feather and down fillings are readily available. Goose down is considered the Rolls Royce of fillings – in fact, it is the best form of natural insulation known to man. Because goose-down clusters are large, less filling is needed to fill the duvet in order to obtain the perfect level of insulation. This means that the duvet will be extremely lightweight, keeping you cool in summer and warm in winter.
What size should I get?
If you like more of an overhang down the sides of the bed, then go one size bigger than your bed. This is also recommended when there are two people in the bed as there will then be more duvet to share. And definitely consider going for a three-quarter duvet on a single bed, especially if it is for an adult or teenager.
What is tog value?
The tog value measures the warmth-to-weight ratio of the duvet. It is the ability of the duvet to retain heat, while still being extremely light. The higher the tog value, the warmer and lighter the duvet will be. Natural filled duvets have inherently better thermal properties than synthetic fillled duvets, and therefore need less filling to be able to achieve the same level of warmth.
Which style should I get?
Different stitching configurations are designed to do slightly different things, and here choices depend largely on personal preferences. Box-stitch duvets, for instance, allow for maximum puffiness as each ‘box’ is filled with a weighed amount of stuffing. The box stitching also prevents the down from moving around inside the duvet, so it is always neat. Channel style duvets, on the other hand, allow for vertical movement inside the duvet, which is ideal if you prefer to ‘thin out’ the top of the duvet during summer. Ring-stitch duvets, meanwhile, comprise small circles sewn all over the duvet, which lend it a very puffy effect. Less fabric is used to make up the duvet and it is therefore lighter than other duvets, but the down can move inside the duvet and so it needs a good shake in the mornings to redistribute the filling.
What about allergies?
Contrary to popular belief, genuine allergies to down are not very common. Most allergies attributed to down emanate from dust and the dust mite, which is why it is important to choose a duvet that is triple de-dusted. This cleaning process, coupled with the use of a tightly woven cotton down-proof fabric, will prevent dust mites from entering the duvet casing.
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