What determines a comforter's warmth? What is fill power?

Your question is more complicated than you might have thought - so here goes. Down is the most insulating of all materials because of its unique ability to loft and trap body heat. The greater the loft, the warmer the comforter. The wonderful characteristic of down is that very little of it (by weight) will loft and fill a great volume. A comforter can be made warmer in two ways: by increasing the quantity, or weight, of down; or by using a higher quality down with greater loft. The ability of down to loft, or to fill a given volume of space, is called fill power. Fill power is measured in cubic inches of volume. One ounce of 650 fill power goose down, will loft to fill a volume of 650 cubic inches. Fill power ranges from about 500 to 800 for special types of white goose down. Thus, in order to achieve maximum "warmth without weight", we recommend at least a 650 fill power down. Our live harvest 750 fill white goose down has approximately 15 percent more warmth than our 650 fill power down. Feathers have little insulating ability because they do not have the same lofting characteristics of down. But be careful in selecting a very warm comforter. Our experience is that many people are truly surprised at how much heat a comforter retains. In our manufacturers' baffled-box style comforters we can gladly add down to your comforter within the 1st year of purchase, charging only for additional down added. But we cannot remove it. So if you are unsure, consider selecting a comforter that is one step lighter than you thought you would need. Back to Top

Why are some comforters baffled?

Comforters can either be baffled or sewn-through. A baffle is an internal fabric wall that separates the top and bottom layers of fabric in a comforter. It allows the down to loft and reach its maximum loft. It also adds strength to the comforter - allowing it to "give" and thus reducing stresses on the stitching when you toss and turn at night. A sewn through comforter is suitable only for the thinnest and lightest weights. And even then, completely stitching through the comforter makes it feel more like a quilted spread and less like you would expect a down comforter to feel. Back to Top

What is a duvet?

Duvet is simply the French word for down, but it is commonly used to refer to a comforter. A duvet cover is a comforter cover that protects your comforter and can be removed for regular washing. And it can be color coordinated to your bedroom. A down comforter with a duvet cover can become your bedspread, blanket, and top sheet - all rolled into one. It's a fun, cozy way to sleep. We recommend that your duvet cover be made from light weight, sheet-type fabrics, preferably from cotton or even silk. The lighter the better. While tapestries and matelasse are fine for coverlets or bedspreads, they are too heavy to sleep under comfortably. We also caution against using heavier weight chintz fabric, such as that used for upholstery or draperies. It also is too heavy for good sleeping. Most Americans prefer to sleep with an additional top sheet, so they will have to launder their duvet cover less frequently. But for a really cozy sleep we highly recommend that you be daring - sleep under the duvet cover without a top sheet. It's lighter, less restricting, the traditional European way, and our favorite. Back to Top

We do not see the exact size comforter that we need on you site. Is it possible to make a custom size for us?

Yes, we can do custom size comforters. In deciding what size you need, remember that the size of your comforter on the bed will actually be the size of the duvet cover that it is in. And in order to fill out your cover, ideally your comforter should be at least as large, or larger, than the cover. There is no such thing as having a down comforter that is too big for the cover. Down is similar to a fluid, in that it conforms to any shape it's in. So simply order the proper size, or larger size than the cover you plan to use. Keep in mind when ordering, that in our industry the advertised size of any comforter is the "cut size" before it is filled with down. After filling, it will draw up several inches, depending on how full we make it. If you decide to do a custom comforter larger than our standard size King, then you will also need a special size duvet cover to fit it as well. We would be glad to do that for you in our custom sewing department. We recently priced a 120 x 120 inch comforter and it was approximately $150.00 more than the price for our 115 x 96" designer king found in our catalog (considering the custom work and additional down that was need for the larger size). There is normally a six to eight week wait for custom sized comforters. Back to Top

Can you make a "German sized" comforter?

Yes, we can make one. I believe you are speaking of a comforter widely used in Germany that is 135 x 200 centimeters, or 54 x 78 inches. This daunendecke is just large enough for one person to wrap up in to sleep, and is often preferred over those in the U.S. that cover the entire bed. When covered with a bettbezuga, or cover, they are like wrapping up in a big jelly roll! They can be filled to any weight, although the ones I've known in Germany are quite full. If you want them as thick as they use in Germany, then it would need at least 60 ounces of white goose down fill. Prices are comparable to those comforters shown in our regular line. Back to Top

What is the best way to clean a down comforter?

First, if properly covered with a protective duvet cover, comforters need very infrequent cleaning. When you must clean it, we suggest that you either have your comforter professionally laundered locally. Please contact our down specialists for ideas, suggestions or alternative cleaning methods. It should not be done at home. Down comforters are too large for home washers, and if the fabric is torn by the agitator the down can escape, damaging your washer and possibly causing the water to back up into the laundry room. In the dryer, the comforter will expand so much that it will block the escape of hot air and result in a scorched comforter and a high risk of fire. We believe that washing is better than dry cleaning (geese live in water!), so try to find a local cleaner to launder it. Dry cleaning is okay, but will leave a chemical odor. But remember, whoever does it, the cotton shell will shrink 3 to 5 percent after drying. After washing, do not store in plastic, but allow to air. Back to Top

Why do you not sell crib comforters?

We absolutely will not sell any down product for crib or infant use, and we caution parents to not put any down items in a crib or on a small child's bed, or even to place an infant on your down comforter or featherbed unattended. Certainly do not let infants sleep or nap on a down comforter. We have a few reasons.

First, there is the chance that if the fine fabric shell tears or opens that the infant can inhale the fine down clusters and choke.

Secondly, a down comforter is capable of covering an infant's mouth and blocking airways, whether it is on top of the infant or under them.

Third, there is considerable scientific evidence that infants who become overheated have a greater incidence of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Down comforters are extremely heat-trapping and may add to this risk.

For more information, please read our Infant / Child Use Warning.    Back to Top

What is the warranty on your comforters, and what is not covered?

If you are not completely satisfied with your comforter during the first 30 days, return it to us for a complete refund of your money or exchange. After that, all of our comforters made with German fabric (clearly identified on each catalog page) are guaranteed to be free from defects in workmanship and materials for a period of 10 years from date of purchase. The use of a duvet cover is required to maintain your warranty. We are not responsible for damage, abuse, or improper care. All other comforters are guaranteed according to the same terms and conditions for a period of 5 years from date of purchase. Back to Top

Pillows

How do I know which is the right firmness pillow for me?

Well, before we answer you directly, all our manufacturers' goose down pillows are completely adjustable within the 1st year of purchase. We charge only for additional down added, and any removed will be returned to you in a separate cotton storage bag. We recommend that you choose a soft pillow for stomach sleeping, a firm pillow for side sleeping (to keep your head level) and a medium firmness for back sleeping. We hear often from customers who suffer from headaches and discomfort from sleeping with the wrong pillow. Of course, we make no claims about curing headaches, but the right pillow can make a difference in a comfortable night's sleep. We even hear of customers who complain of "neck aches" from sleeping on a too firm pillow. For these people, we recommend a softer pillow that fits into the curve of the neck, permitting your head to slightly tilt backwards, relieving stresses on the neck area. If you sleep on your stomach, choose a soft or extra soft pillow so that it doesn't push your head up too high. And if you sleep on your side, choose a pillow that is firm enough to fill the breadth of your shoulders and to allow your head to remain at a comfortable level. While not shown on our site, you can request your pillow be made any way you wish. If They're Not Right ... We'll Adjust Them!"  Back to Top

What is the difference in a pillow that contains down, versus one that contains feathers?

There are many differences, but the biggest difference is that down traps more air and makes a fluffy, balloon-like, pillow that has "bounce." Feather pillows tend to pack harder and flatten more quickly with use. While either pillow can be made soft, medium or firm, just by adding more or less fill, choose down for its ability to loft, and feather if you prefer a flatter, harder packed pillow.    Back to Top

What causes my down pillow to break in and get softer with use?

Simple! The absorption of body oils, perspiration, and humidity through the cotton shell and into the down. A pillow protector will help keep your down pillow like new, provided you remove it and wash it often. We've even noticed that down pillows last far longer in an air conditioned environment. Oils and humidity is their enemy.   Back to Top

Do you make custom shape pillows?

We'd be glad to make any shape pillow you'd like. And we can fill it with either down, feathers or a down/feather blend. We charge only for the fabric, down by the ounce ($4.50 for 650 fill white goose down versus $0.95 per ounce for 20/80% white goose down/feather blend. Labor should be no more than $10.00 or so. If you prefer, you can fax your drawing to us or attach it to your email.   Back to Top

Do you make custom sized pillow inserts for throw and sofa pillows?

Yes, we can do a 20 x 20" pillow or any size that you would like. The price depends on whether you choose a 200 thread count fabric, or our superior German fabric that reduces down leakage by 95 percent. It also depends on the fill you choose (e.g. down vs. feathers). They can be shipped the day following receipt of your order.   Back to Top

If I want to wash my pillows myself, how would I do it?

While we hear of customers who have great success in washing pillows, we have many who tell us that it is extremely difficult. And it can be dangerous to your home washer.

First, we do not recommend doing it at home or in an agitator machine. If the agitator tears the fabric, and the down escapes, it can block the water exhaust and overflow into your home. This is especially likely to happen with older pillows whose fabric is weakened from oils, perspiration, and age.

Next, pillows tend to trap air and "balloon," causing them to try and pop out of the top of the washer. So, we recommend washing only in a front loading commercial washer, using regular detergent. But even here, be sure that the fabric is not too old or deteriorated from body oils or weakened from age. When the pillows are wet you will smell a pungent odor. This is natural with all down products, and will disappear when the pillows are completely dry. Be certain to dry the pillows very thoroughly so that they don't mildew. This will take about three hours in a large commercial dryer on medium heat. Pillows in a hot commercial dryer can easily burn so be careful. Do not leave them unattended in the dryer. Take them out and fluff regularly when drying and check for overheating. If too many pillows are placed in the dryer the hot air cannot escape and a fire is possible.

Finally, the down proof ticking on good quality pillows does not want to let water pass through, nor let the oils or dust inside escape. For most people, the answer is to use a good quality pillow protector, wash and change it weekly with your laundry, and discard the pillow when its life expectancy is over.   Back to Top

Can you get mold out of pillows?

Sorry, but getting mildew out of down is one thing that we've not been able to do.   Back to Top

What is the warranty on your pillows?

All of our down products may be returned for a full refund or exchange within 30 days of purchase. Any pillows which are returned to us are destroyed, because bedding laws do not permit us to resell used down products. All pillows are guaranteed to be free from defects in the fabric and sewing workmanship and we will replace any fabric shell that does not meet your expectations. It is not feasible to give an express guarantee on pillows for a certain length of time, because all pillows soften and "break in" with use. Many people love when their pillow breaks in and they become more comfortable with it. Our experience is that the life expectancy of a pillow is related to the amount of body oil, perspiration, and humidity that it is exposed to. We recommend the use of a pillow protector that is removed and laundered regularly.   Back to Top

If my pillow is too firm or too soft, can you adjust the level of firmness?

Yes, if within 60 days of purchase.   Back to Top

Featherbeds

In shopping, what should I look for in a good quality featherbed?

No matter whom you purchase from, we recommend that you look for one made from fabric that is woven in Germany, that it is sewn in a baffled box pattern to reduce shifting, and that contains goose fill and not duck or "waterfowl." We prefer no less than 10 percent down, and suggest that you stay away from products label "Crushed" feather. This fill is made from large feathers that have been crushed and ground up and does not make a good finished product.   Back to Top

Why are featherbeds made from feathers and not all down?

Our featherbeds contain 10 percent white goose down and 90 percent white goose feathers. Featherbeds are made of feathers because they offer more support than down. You would probably sink into a down bed so far that you couldn't get up! And it would take so much down to support your body weight (our featherbeds contain 18 pounds of a feather/down blend) that a real down bed would become prohibitively expensive.   Back to Top

How do I cover a featherbed?

Featherbeds go on top of your mattress and should be covered for protection. A zippered cover is often used to protect the featherbed, and some of our customers actually sleep on it in lieu of a bottom sheet. Other customers add a separate bottom sheet over the protector for ease in laundering. For the bottom sheet, some customers prefer a flat sheet that they can tuck in under the featherbed itself. We also have customers who request an extra deep fitted sheet to pull down over the featherbed and mattress as well. We do carry fitted sheets from 14 to 17 inches deep. Some customers tell us that they like to use a quilted mattress pad over their featherbed for additional protection. It's probably not a bad idea, if you can find one with an extra deep pocket.   Back to Top

Why does White Goose Down Comforters .Com charge a handling fee for returns of featherbeds?

Featherbeds that are retuned to us are destroyed. They cannot be resold. While we consider the loss to be a cost of doing business today, we cannot also afford the costs of handling and processing the return. As such, a small charge may be necessary. We remind all customers that although featherbeds are tremendously popular, there are many people who would not like them. They can be hot to sleep on and not suited to people who require a firm, flat mattress for medical reasons.   Back to Top

Down & Fabrics in General:

Is thread count important in down proof fabrics as it is with fine linens?

Placing reliance on thread count as an indicator of the down proof quality of fabric is a mistake. What is important is the type and size of yarn, the density with which it is woven (which is a different issue than thread count), and the specialized finishing techniques needed to insure the fabric's down proof qualities.

We use several different types of fabrics on our comforters. All of our better quality fabrics are woven in Germany by a family owned mill that has been weaving down proof fabrics for over a century. These fabrics offer the ideal combination of down proof qualities, strength and durability, and fine hand. Their down proof character is derived from the fact that they combine the appropriate size yarn necessary to provide durability over years of use with a dense weave.

While our thread counts range generally from 226 to over 400, we do not think that consumers should focus on this issue. In our years in business we have seen high thread count fabrics woven by less experienced mills, or with inadequate quality control or finishing process, that have leaked down excessively. Our experience is that thread counts under 300 actually provide the best combination of durability, absorbency, performance, and feel. Fabric can be woven densely at 226 threads, or at 400 threads. But in order to weave more threads per inch, each yarn has to have a smaller diameter, often resulting in a cloth that is too fine and delicate for holding down, and for retaining the stitching over many years of "tossing and turning" and exposure to perspiration. Indeed, the weave in our 226 thread count cambric is actually "tighter" than some fabrics that are advertised at twice the thread count; it's just that the yarns are of the optimum size and density. Additionally, the fabric is calendered in the finishing process by being put under tremendous pressure and heat to assure complete downproofness and fine touch.

The thread count on the pillows ranges from 226 to a 280 thread count twill, and we do match the weave to the relative percentage of down and feather blend being used. We would never suggest making a pillow out of fabric above 300 threads per inch.

All of our pillows, and all of our comforters made from German fabric, carry our Confidence in Textiles guarantee that they have been produced according to international environmental standards, with no heavy metals such as Chromium, or other harmful chemicals such as formaldehyde or chlorine.

We would be glad to send a swatch of fabric to you for your inspection.  Back to Top

What is a law label and how do I read it?

A law label must be attached to every comforter or pillow sold in the United States as required by state law. Law labels are required so that consumers know exactly what they are buying. Indeed, reading the law label is your only way of determining what is inside your pillow or comforter - not advertising or packaging.

Why do we need these? Imagine going into a large department store and asking the clerk to open the pillow and show you what's inside. Even if he or she did so, how would you be able to test the fill material to determine for yourself what it is? So, state regulations require licensed bedding manufacturers to tell you, in a clear, concise, and uniform way. We are required to tell you the type of fill (e.g. "white goose down"), the outer covering and the size of the item.

Every state has different disclosure requirements. Most permit the product to be labeled simply as "down" or "feathers," although most manufacturers also put the color and species of the fill (e.g. white goose down). In our experience, if the label does not say "white goose down" then it is probably filled with gray goose down. And if it does not say "goose down," it is probably filled with inferior duck down. Beware feather pillows labeled "Crushed feathers" as they are made of large feathers in excess of the legal limit to be sold as whole feathers, and had to be crushed in order to be used.

Keep in mind that there are specific regulations on the use of the term "down." What is down? Down is the soft, fluffy cluster from geese or ducks. It lacks the hard, spiny quill of a feather. However, the mechanical process to sort down from feathers is not perfect. And some feathers, in a trace amount, will always remain in any down fill. Moreover, some fiber, or broken clusters of down, will also remain. So, it is inaccurate and contrary to law, to state that a product contains "All Down," "Pure Down," or "100% Down." Don't let a sales person tell you that it does. Why then do we label our products as "White Goose Down?" Because the law permits a tolerance - as long as the product contains at least 75 percent down (i.e. the down cluster) then it may be labeled as down. If it contains less than 75 percent down, then the percentage of feather must be disclosed also.

In year 2000 many state regulations changed, following the lead of California. Law labels today will have to also disclose that the product contains a certain minimum percentage of down cluster. Thus, a typical label might read "This product contains all new material consisting of WHITE GOOSE DOWN (minimum 85 percent down)." The 85 percent does not mean that the product is inferior. Indeed this item would contain over 13 percent more down than required by law. And it is practically impossible to mechanically sort the down better than 90 to 95 percent. You would not be able to feel any feathers when the percentage of down is labels in excess of 75 percent. Of course, in the end, the best advice is to purchase only from a manufacturer that you trust.   Back to Top

Do you have to kill birds to get their feathers?

Our better quality fills, accounting for most of our comforters and pillows are actually hand harvested from farm raised geese in Eastern Europe. As the geese get older they produce larger down clusters, so they live long healthy lives. The plucking does not harm them, and while it is briefly annoying, they do get accustomed to it over the years.

Most of the down and feathers used in the world, however, is a byproduct of the food industry, primarily from China. Realize that much of the world eats geese and duck, like Americans each chicken and turkey. We do use down and feathers of this kind, as it would be impossible to rely solely on our European suppliers. And it would be a shame for the down to go to waste.   Back to Top

Is there any such thing as hypoallergenic down?

We ask our customers to use common sense here. We do not use the term "hypoallergenic" with regard to any down products because we do not believe that the use of the term is appropriate or possible. Anyone who is allergic to goose dander is simply going to be allergic to goose down. We believe it to be a "wives tale" that you can be allergic to down and not to feathers, because they come from the same bird and are washed and processed together.

There is no scientific basis for concluding that washing and rinsing down, no matter how well, or by treating it with any solution, will remove 100% of the dander, or result in hypoallergenic down, and we encourage you to beware of claims otherwise. To use an illustration, ragweed pollen is laboratory processed to make allergy vaccine. Even at this level of processing and chemical transformation, it is used to desensitize patients to ragweed. If you are allergic to eggs, there is not way that I can process them, treat them with chemicals, cook them or bake them, that will not make you allergic. Indeed, science tells us that we'd have to alter the DNA in order for someone with true allergies to no longer be allergic. How can subjecting goose down to any solution possibly prevent it from sensitizing a user?

Our manufacturers quality fills do go through extensive washing and processing in German-made down soaps, containing surfactants and emulsifiers, and using German-made equipment. Three separate wash cycles and up to nine rinses are used. Air drying includes a specialized de-dusting vacuum system that further removes dander and fine particles. Despite state-of-the-art processing, we will not label even our finest down fills as hypoallergenic.

We believe that some companies using the term hypoallergenic are referring to allergies to molds or spores that can form in pillows or comforters that are not properly cared for. We have seen claims that their down is treated with moldicides and fungicides that will retard the growth of bacteria and spores, and we believe that the use of this term refers to allergies of this nature. Our experience has shown, however, that these chemicals are toxic and not something that we, or our customers, would want to sleep under every night. An employee who was exposed to these chemicals broke out over his hands, arms, and face with red blotches that required several weeks of treatment.

Keep in mind that many people are allergic to dust and dust mites. While mites can attach to the surface of the comforter, scientific studies done in Europe have shown that dust mites cannot penetrate the down proof materials used in down comforters. We recommend a good duvet cover that closes securely and is laundered often.

In conclusion, if you are truly allergic to down, then we recommend that you select another product. For instance, we carry a silk filled, sand washed habotai silk covered, comforter that is hypoallergenic. Silk is one of the purest fibers, unable to lint and containing absolutely no dander. We also carry cotton filled and wool filled comforters as an alternative.   Back to Top

Sometimes I see some dark spots through the fabric on my pillows and comforters. What are they?

Those dark spots that you see are dark clusters of down. They are found in all white goose down, regardless of quality, and the more you press on the fabric the more you'll see them. Just like we get gray hairs, even white geese get some gray clusters as they get older. They are not feathers, and not inferior in any way. Indeed, if you were to open the pillow and allow the down to expand you probably wouldn't see them. They are usually only visible when compressed under fine, white fabric.   Back to Top

What do you mean by Confidence in Textiles?

Every product that carries our Confidence in Textiles label is guaranteed to meet strict European standards for environmentally safe textiles. This was awarded to our German fabrics at the International Association for Research and Testing in the Field of Textile Technology, Hohenstein, Germany. These fabrics contain no harmful chemicals that are generally used in textile production around the world, including formaldehyde and chlorine, and no heavy metals such as chromium.   Back to Top

Customer Service:

Do you add a handling or processing fee to your shipping charges?

We ship by United Parcel Service. International shipments are sent either by United Parcel Service or by the U.S. Postal Service. A $5.00 handling fee per box is added to all domestic shipments, and a $10.00 handling fee is added to all international shipments. International shipments are exclusive of duties and local taxes.   Back to Top

Do you ship internationally?

Yes. We are delighted to ship internationally. We usually ship via United States Postal Service Air Express, but can use alternative carriers upon request. Rates are quite reasonable. A typical comforter to Japan, for instance, is $70.00 for 3 to 5 day delivery. The customer is responsible for import duties and taxes.   Back to Top

How long after placing my order will it take to ship?

All orders for items shown in our catalog are shipped directly from our plant in North Carolina within 48 hours. Many orders for pillows and comforters are shipped on the same day as the order is received. Our manufacturer does not "pull from stock" to ship. All orders are placed into production in the order received. This allows our manufacturers

to better control quality, minimize overhead and other costs, accommodate custom orders, and provide a product with fresh, fluffy down and crisp, clean fabrics.   Back to Top

We have not previously ordered from you. Could you please describe your customer satisfaction/return policy?

Under the section "On Ordering" we state," ... if you are not completely satisfied with your down purchase during the first twenty one days, return it to us for a full refund or exchange" freight excluded. State laws prohibit the resale of bedding items once used. Therefore, we ask that if you are returning your down pillow or comforter because it is the wrong weight or firmness, that you instead return it to us for adjustment. We charge only for the additional down added. We cannot remove down from a comforter, only add to it. Any down removed from a pillow will be returned to you. This service is available anytime within one year of the date of purchase. All orders are shipped within 48 hours. Pillows are often shipped on the same day as the order is received. We ship UPS and can quote your shipping charges at the time of order. We will do everything possible to earn your continued business.   Back to Top

Why does White Goose Down Comforters.Com charge a handling fee for returns of featherbeds?

Featherbeds that are retuned to us are destroyed. They cannot be resold. While we consider the loss to be a cost of doing business today, we cannot also afford the costs of handling and processing the return. As such, a small charge may be necessary. We remind all customers that although featherbeds are tremendously popular, there are many people who would not like them. They can be hot to sleep on and not suited to people who require a firm, flat mattress for medical reasons.   Back to Top

About White Goose Down Comforters.Com:

What is your location and who do I contact with a problem?

We are located on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada

Mail: 1490 Jackson Drive, Comox, B.C. V9M 4E5

E-mail: Admin@whitegoosedowncomforters.com

Phone 1-250-897-2085 Fax: 1-250-339-0208

Our Manufacturer is located at approximately 3500 feet in the Blue Ridge Mountains of western North Carolina. From their front door they look up at 5200 foot Grandfather Mountain, the oldest mountain in North America.

Address Concerns or Comments to:

Leonard Aylward , Gen Manager

White Goose Down Comforters.Com

1490 Jackson Drive

Comox, B.C. V9N 5N5

Telephones:

Local and International: 1-250-897-2085   Back to Top

How long have you been in business?

We were incorporated in 1990.

Where are you located? 

We are located on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada

Mail: 1490 Jackson Drive, Comox, B.C. V9M 4E5

E-mail: Admin@whitegoosedowncomforters.com

Phone 1-250-897-2085 Fax: 1-250-339-0208

Our Manufacturer is located at approximately 3500 feet in the Blue Ridge Mountains of western North Carolina. From their front door they look up at 5200 foot Grandfather Mountain, the oldest mountain in North America.

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