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Fillings: the options
It's not just the material inside the duvet that creates the warmth, but its ability to trap air within. So don't assume heavier equals warmer. As Andrew Clarke at John Lewis explains: 'Pure goose down is incredibly lightweight, yet will keep you very snug'.
The naturals
Natural materials tend to feel more luxurious, are more breathable as they draw moisture away from the body and, as a rule, last longer than synthetics. Most are stitched across the outer cover to stop the filling moving about and to create pockets, which help to trap air.
The most basic natural filling is duck feather and down. An affordable option, it tends to be heavier than a pure down duvet – ideal if you like to feel cocooned in a more substantial cover. 100 per cent down duvets are super soft because, unlike feathers, which have a rigid 'spine', down is very pliable. Goose down is more expensive than duck down, and geese that live in cold climates produce the fluffiest of all, so expect to pay more for quilts filled with Siberian down.
Synthetic fibres
These are practical if your duvet needs regular laundering, as they're easier to dry, so can be washed at home in a large-capacity machine. A 60º wash will kill off dust mites that can cause allergies.
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The naturals
Natural materials tend to feel more luxurious, are more breathable as they draw moisture away from the body and, as a rule, last longer than synthetics. Most are stitched across the outer cover to stop the filling moving about and to create pockets, which help to trap air.
The most basic natural filling is duck feather and down. An affordable option, it tends to be heavier than a pure down duvet – ideal if you like to feel cocooned in a more substantial cover. 100 per cent down duvets are super soft because, unlike feathers, which have a rigid 'spine', down is very pliable. Goose down is more expensive than duck down, and geese that live in cold climates produce the fluffiest of all, so expect to pay more for quilts filled with Siberian down.
- Luxurious silk duvets naturally repel dust mites, so are a good choice for people with allergies. Also, as it's the ultimate breathable material, it helps regulate your body temperature, too.
Synthetic fibres
These are practical if your duvet needs regular laundering, as they're easier to dry, so can be washed at home in a large-capacity machine. A 60º wash will kill off dust mites that can cause allergies.
- There are several types of synthetic materials, many of which are non-allergenic. The Microfibre Light Combination is the best-selling duvet in John Lewis and feels most like down for softness and drape.
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