Hollowfibre Duvets vs Down Duvets, is one better than the other? Well, ‘better’ isn’t really an appropriate word. The two offer their own particular pros and cons, both in use, price and conscience.
Hollowfibre Duvets vs Down Duvets
Some years ago, duck or goose down/feather duvets (or ‘continental quilts’, as we used to call them) were really your only choice, but since the development of modern fabrics – specifically hollowfibre and microfibre – duvets made from synthetic materials have become significantly more popular. And it’s little surprise! Hollowfibre duvets are an outstanding alternative to the more traditional feather version. Understanding the differences between these types can help you choose the one that best suits your needs and preferences.
Hollowfibre Duvets & Quilts
Hollowfibre-filled duvets are an excellent choice for those looking for an affordable, hypoallergenic, easy-to-maintain – and versatile – bedding option. They offer consistent warmth, great durability and are ideal for those with allergies. In fact, anyone seeking a practical and cost-effective bedding solution!
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The Benefits of Hollowfibre Duvets
They’re Hypoallergenic. Duvets (and pillows) with a hollowfibre filling are most often hypoallergenic, making them a much better choice for those suffering allergies or asthma. They are far less likely to trigger allergies than down duvets.
They’re Considerably More Affordable. Hollowfibre duvets are generally way more ‘budget-friendly’ than feather/down duvets. While a feather duvet will probably last longer, hollowfibre offer comparable warmth and are so much less expensive and can be replaced more often.
They’re Easier to Keep Fresh & Clean. Compared to duck and goose down, hollowfibre-filled duvets are significantly easier to wash and maintain. Many are machine-washable (most often not the case for feather/down duvets) and they tend to retain their shape and fluffiness after washing.
Once Washed, they’re Easier to Dry. Hollowfibre duvets dry very quickly, even outside on the washing line. This is a real convenience if you need to wash them frequently, as a hotel or guest house may.
No Animals are Harmed. This may concern you, it may not, but down duvets are animal products. If you have a conscience towards the non-human creatures of our world, you won’t be losing sleep over hollowfibre duvet fillings.
The (Questionable) Downsides of Hollowfibre
They are Less ‘Breathable’. Hollowfibre duvets may not provide the same level of breathability as down duvets, which could lead to excess warmth for some individuals, that is, they are very warm and very good insulators. This seems questionable to us here at KerryLinen,ie, the very point of a duvet is to keep you warm. If you find yourself too warm under a 10.5 TOG duvet, consider a 4.5 TOG one instead.
They have a Shorter Lifespan. This is true, hollowfibre duvets generally have a shorter lifespan and will need to be replaced more often, as synthetic fillings tend to wear out over time. However, the relative cost-to-longevity means you can replace a hollowfibre duvet some number of times, while still spending less money. Also, ‘new’ always feels good.
Feather/Down Duvets
Down duvets are preferred by some, no doubt, however from purely practical and cost-efficiency points, we think hollowfibre offers a much better product. Sometimes, ‘natural’ is seen as inherently better that ‘synthetic’. There are, of course, good examples of this. Feather fillings will not cause environmental or pollution issues, but hollowfibre materials do (mostly) contain polyester or other ‘plastic’ substances. However, many hollowfibres are made from recycled plastics.
Feather and down duvets will trigger symptoms in those suffering from allergies. Hollowfibre will not.
Natural feather duvets are also considerably more expensive than hollowfibre. It’s true, they will very likely last longer, but that rather depends on how you treat them. Also, if a hollowfibre costs 25% of a feather one, you can replace your hollowfibre duvet four times for the same cost – and everyone loves the feeling of ‘new’!
And then there’s the animal welfare aspect. No animals are hurt in the process of making a hollowfibre filling. The feathers used in ‘natural’ duvets often include feathers being plucked from live, fully conscious animals. We don’t like that here. Not at all.
Conclusion
The choice between hollowfibre and down duvets depends on your preferences, budget, specific needs and your concern for animal welfare. If you prioritize affordability, hypoallergenic properties and easy maintenance (and the lack of animal cruelty), hollowfibre duvets are, without doubt, the better choice. If you seek the supposed improved breathability and long-term durability, down duvets are your option.
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