Hypnos Feather and Down Pillow
- Duck feather and down & 230-thread count cotton cover
- Medium-firm
- Machine-washable cover
Tell me more about the Hypnos Feather and Down Pillow
The Hypnos Feather and Down pillow boasts a sumptuous blend of the finest goose feather and down.
It gently cocoons the head and neck, ensuring a deeply comforting sleep, and its natural insulation properties make it perfect for any season.
The top-quality goose feathers maintain optimal head and neck positioning for sound spinal alignment during sleep.
Wrapped in a 100% cotton cover with a 230-thread count, it offers a luxuriously soft touch.
Plus, the breathable nature of cotton ensures moisture is wicked away, keeping the sleeping surface fresh and dry.
Reasons to buy
Luxurious materials |
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Free next-day delivery available |
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Great for back & side sleepers |
Reasons to avoid
No trial period |
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Only a 1-year guarantee |
Feather & Black White Snow Duck Down & Feather Pillow
The White Snow Duck Down & Feather pillow has a cassette box design that evenly distributes its luxurious fillings night after night.
This White Snow Duck Down and Feather pillow by Feather & Black is sumptuously comfortable.
Crafted with a lush mix of White Snow Duck down and feather, this pillow provides optimal support for the head, neck, and shoulders.
Its filling ratio is 60% down to 40% feather, promising a gentle feel and loft that effortlessly cradles your head.
The rectangular cassette box design ensures an even spread of these luxurious fillings, enhanced by a double-layered piping.
The 330 thread count 100% cotton cover has satin piped edges showing true attention to detail.
This soft duck feather pillow has just the right cushioning to provide optimal support for front or back sleepers.
It's also machine washable at 40°C.
The pillow is crafted in Ireland using OEKO-TEX-certified [1] materials. 🌍
These luxury duck and feather pillows include a 1-year guarantee.
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White Snow Duck Down & Feather Pillow |
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| Composition: | 60% white snow duck down and 40% feather, 330-thread count cotton cover |
| Firmness level: | Soft |
| Trial period | / |
| Guarantee: | 1 year |
| What we love: | The soft and gentle feel provides the ideal support for front and back sleepers. |
| What could be improved: | We'd love to see a longer guarantee on this premium pillow. |
Tempur Down Luxe Pillow
- Tempur micro-cushions and down & feather mix
- Medium-soft
- 100% cotton machine-washable cover
Tell me more about the Tempur Down Luxe pillow
The Tempur Down Luxe is the only known feather pillow to include NASA technology.
The pillow combines supportive Tempur material with soft down feathers, providing suitable support for back sleepers.
Your head will sink into the soft down while gently moulding to the curve of your neck for neutral alignment.
Some customers have noted that the pillow feels slightly underfilled and lacks the expected density.
For those concerned about hygiene, it has a Downafresh certification to ensure it is free from bacteria and other residues.
We also recommend fluffing the pillow regularly to help maintain its plump shape.
Reasons to buy
30-night trial period |
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3-year guarantee |
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Downpass certified |
Reasons to avoid
Quite expensive |
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Some customers have complained that it's slightly underfilled |
Silentnight Duck Feather Pillows
- 100% duck feather & cotton percale pillowcase
- Medium-soft feel
- Machine-washable
Tell me more about the Silentnight Duck Feather pillows
The Silentnight Duck Feather pillows will keep you comfortable and cosy all night long.
These pillows are made with RDS-approved [2] duck feathers, meaning they've been sourced from certified farms.
The medium-soft feel of these pillows means they're most suited to back sleepers.
Not only are they comfortable, but they're also durable and anti-allergy.
The Silentnight duck feather pillows can also be machine-washed and tumble-dried for easy care.
In addition to pillows, Silentnight also offers duck feather and down duvets.
Reasons to buy
2-year guarantee |
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Easy-care |
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Budget-friendly |
Reasons to avoid
Not the best quality |
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No trial period |
What are duck feather and down pillows?
Duck feather and down pillows are some of the most luxurious types of pillows available.
But is there a difference between duck feather pillows and duck down pillows?
What are duck feather pillows?
Duck feather pillows are a luxurious blend of softness and support, filled predominantly with duck feathers, but they also often contain a touch of duck down. 🪶
Unlike polyester-filled pillows, duck feather pillows are largely handmade, with their soft fillings neatly wrapped in a cotton cover.
Their plumpness and lightweight nature make them outstandingly comfortable.
They are designed to contour perfectly to your head, providing both bulk and support. 💪
Feather pillows typically outlast synthetic-filled alternatives thanks to the natural strength of feathers that maintain their shape and fluffiness even after repeated use and washes. 🧼
While cheap synthetic pillows typically last around 1 - 2 years, you can expect feather pillows to last anywhere between 5 - 10 years.
However, they do require regular cleaning and fluffing, but the comfort and longevity they offer make the effort absolutely worthwhile.
The Silentnight Duck Feather pillows are made purely from duck feathers.
What are duck down pillows?
Derived from the duck's underbelly, down serves as insulation, keeping the bird warm.
These insulating properties of down ensure duck feather and down pillows are exceptionally warm and cosy. 🔥
The fine fibres of down are gentle, making them an ideal choice for those with sensitive skin.
Additionally, duck down's natural resistance to mould and mildew minimises odour and allergy concerns. 🤧
The gentle softness of down means that sleeping on a duck down pillow often feels like you're floating on a cloud. ☁️
Pure down pillows are typically more expensive and luxurious than feather pillows, which is why many manufacturers often combine duck feathers and down in one pillow.
Our favourite duck feather and down pillow:
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![Feather & Black White Snow Duck Down & Feather Pillow]()
![Feather & Black White Snow Duck Down & Feather Pillow]()
Feather & Black![Feather & Black]()
White Snow Duck Down & Feather PillowPrice from £ 99The White Snow Duck Down & Feather pillow is crafted with a perfect blend of duck feather and down, encased in a premium 330-thread count cotton cover.The White Snow Duck Down & Feather pillow is crafted with a perfect blend of duck feather and down, encased in a premium 330-thread count cotton cover.Price from £ 99
What to look for in duck feather and down pillows
Before purchasing a duck feather and down pillow, it's essential to know your requirements.
Understanding the firmness, height, and certifications of a pillow can be the key difference in making a good investment or purchasing a product you regret.
Loft
Loft refers to the height of your pillow.
The height you need ultimately depends on your sleeping position.
We recommend:
- A high loft pillow for side sleepers
- A medium loft pillow for back sleepers
- A low loft pillow for stomach sleepers
Feather pillows typically start with a higher loft because feathers provide more structure.
However, they can flatten faster than down pillows since they aren't as densely packed.
Down pillows might have a lower initial loft but maintain their shape longer because of their dense nature.
Firmness
The density of the pillow and how packed it is with feathers or down can affect the firmness.
Duck down pillows tend to be lightweight and softer, making them more suitable for stomach and back sleepers.
In contrast, feather pillows are a tad firmer due to the quills, so a pillow that combines feather and down can be a good option for side sleepers.
The Hypnos Feather and Down pillow is one of the best feather pillows for side sleepers UK.
While both types provide comfort, if you need more stability, you may want to consider an ergonomic pillow, like the Groove pillow.
Certifications
Always check for certifications when purchasing duck feather pillows. ✅
Certifications like the Responsible Down Standard (RDS) [3] ensure that the materials come from certified farms.
A certified pillow guarantees ducks and geese have been treated humanely and are not subjected to unnecessary harm.
Fortunately, most duck feathers (around 98%) are collected after slaughter, ensuring no live plucking takes place.
The Silentnight Duck Feather pillows are RDS-approved.
Cost
Duck feather and down pillows can be costly. 💰
Since duck down is often harder to procure than feathers, this makes pure down pillows pricier.
If budget is a concern, opt for a pillow that combines both feather and down for the best of both worlds.
We also recommend a duck feather pillow that is encased in a cotton cover with a higher thread count to ensure it maintains durability over time.
The Feather & Black White Snow Duck Down & Feather pillow has a 330-thread count cotton cover.
What are the drawbacks of duck feather and down pillows?
While there are many benefits to duck feather pillows, it's also important to consider why they might not be a great choice for everyone.
Quill protrusion
One of the common issues with feather pillows is the potential for quills to poke through the casing as the pillow ages.
While this is a natural occurrence, it can be somewhat uncomfortable.
Investing in a thicker pillowcase or protector can help mitigate this problem, but it can still be inconvenient.
You can also opt for a pillow that contains more down and less duck feathers.
Ethical considerations
For those keen on animal-free products, duck feather and down pillows may not be suitable.
However, it's worth noting that many UK duck feather pillow brands ensure all their feather and down are sourced ethically.
You should check the certifications of the duck feather pillow before making a purchase. ✔️
Too warm for some sleepers
The natural heat retention properties of down can sometimes lead to increased warmth. 🌡️
That being said, many modern down pillows are designed to be less dense, allowing for air to flow through the gaps.
Additionally, duck feather and down pillows that include a cotton cover will be more breathable with additional moisture-wicking properties.
Does not provide ergonomic support
While duck feather and down pillows offer a cloud-like feel, they might not provide the neck support some individuals need.
Ergonomic pillows are designed with a specific structure or shape that helps to keep the head and neck supported during sleep.
Alternatively, memory foam pillows are much denser, moulding around the head for immediate pressure relief.
Another benefit of memory foam pillows is that they do not need to be plumped or fluffed and should keep their shape for longer.
Our favourite memory foam pillows:
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![Panda Hybrid Pillow]()
![Panda Hybrid Pillow]()
Panda London![Panda London]()
Hybrid Bamboo PillowPrice from £ 76.46 £ (89.95 )The Panda Hybrid pillow is a Sleep Hero favourite made from orthopaedic grade, adaptive CharcoCell foam."Perfect combination of memory support and breathability."The Panda Hybrid pillow is a Sleep Hero favourite made from orthopaedic grade, adaptive CharcoCell foam."Perfect combination of memory support and breathability."Price from £ 76.46 (£ 89.95 ) -
![Simba Hybrid Pillow]()
![Simba Hybrid Pillow]()
Simba![Simba]()
Hybrid PillowPrice from £ 109The Simba Hybrid Pillow is an excellent choice for those in need of adjustable support.The Simba Hybrid Pillow is an excellent choice for those in need of adjustable support.Price from £ 109 -
![Emma Premium Pillow]()
![Emma Premium Pillow]()
Emma![Emma]()
Premium PillowPrice from £ 69 £ (115 )The Emma Premium Pillow offers unrivalled adjustability to suit all sleeping positions."Get 5% off with our exclusive 'SLEEPHEROUK5' discount code."The Emma Premium Pillow offers unrivalled adjustability to suit all sleeping positions."Get 5% off with our exclusive 'SLEEPHEROUK5' discount code."Price from £ 69 (£ 115 )
Duck down vs goose down
Many people make the assumption that duck down and goose down have the same quality and feel.
However, while both offer a soft and luxurious feel, there are a few differences to note.
Take a look at our comparison table below:
| Duck down | Goose down | |
| Cluster size | Smaller clusters | Larger clusters |
| Comfort | Not as soft and insulated | Softer and better insulated |
| Odour | Can have a 'gamey' smell due to oils from a meat diet | Fewer oils and odour issues due to herbivorous die |
| Cleanliness | Closer to the ground, so they pick up more dirt | Chest is higher, so they pick up less dirt |
| Price point | More budget-friendly | More expensive |
Overall, goose down is more luxurious and the optimal choice for those looking for the best quality feather pillows. 👑
The Hypnos Feather and Down pillow is one of the best goose down pillows UK.
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![Hypnos Feather and Down Pillow]()
![Hypnos Feather and Down Pillow]()
Hypnos![Hypnos]()
Feather and Down PillowPrice from £ 124The Hypnos Feather and Down pillow blends plush goose fillings and a luxurious cotton cover.The Hypnos Feather and Down pillow blends plush goose fillings and a luxurious cotton cover.Price from £ 124
Can you wash duck feather and down pillows?
There is some debate when it comes to whether or not you can wash duck feather and down pillows.
Some experts advocate for machine washing as long as you use cold water and a mild detergent.
The pillows we have recommended are suitable for washing at 40°C.
You should put the pillows on a gentle cycle to preserve the integrity of the feathers. 🍃
If you tumble-dry your pillow, add a couple of dryer balls to help your pillow remain plush.
However, not all duck feather and down pillows are machine-washable.
Some manufacturers specifically advise seeking professional cleaning for these delicate pillows.
It's essential, therefore, to always check the care label of your pillow before deciding on a cleaning method. 🏷️
If you do wash your pillows, make sure they're completely dry to prevent mould growth.
Are duck feather pillows good?
Duck feather and down pillows epitomise luxury, offering unparalleled comfort and enduring quality.
Although they come at a premium price, your duck feather pillow will last much longer than a cheap, hollowfibre pillow. 🕟
They're also significantly cheaper than goose down pillows.
Before making a purchase, it's essential to check its certifications and understand its care instructions.
Ensure the pillow meets the requirements of your sleeping position and is within your budget.
Alternatively, consider other options such as "feels like down" and memory foam pillows.
Here's a reminder of the best feather pillows UK:
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![Hypnos Feather and Down Pillow]()
![Hypnos Feather and Down Pillow]()
Hypnos![Hypnos]()
Feather and Down PillowPrice from £ 124The Hypnos Feather and Down pillow blends plush goose fillings and a luxurious cotton cover.The Hypnos Feather and Down pillow blends plush goose fillings and a luxurious cotton cover.Price from £ 124 -
![Feather & Black White Snow Duck Down & Feather Pillow]()
![Feather & Black White Snow Duck Down & Feather Pillow]()
Feather & Black![Feather & Black]()
White Snow Duck Down & Feather PillowPrice from £ 99The White Snow Duck Down & Feather pillow is crafted with a perfect blend of duck feather and down, encased in a premium 330-thread count cotton cover.The White Snow Duck Down & Feather pillow is crafted with a perfect blend of duck feather and down, encased in a premium 330-thread count cotton cover.Price from £ 99 -
![Silentnight Duck Feather Pillow]()
![Silentnight Duck Feather Pillow]()
Silentnight![Silentnight]()
Duck Feather PillowsPrice from £ 26The Silentnight Duck Feather pillows are filled with durable duck feathers and can be machine-washed.The Silentnight Duck Feather pillows are filled with durable duck feathers and can be machine-washed.Price from £ 26
Frequently asked questions
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How long do duck feather pillows last?
Duck feather pillows are made from high-quality materials that are comfortable and supportive.
In comparison to synthetic pillows, duck feather pillows are able to maintain their shape and fluffiness for a longer period of time.
The best feather and down pillows in the UK can last between 5 and 10 years.
To ensure your duck feather pillows last as long as possible, you should fluff and air them regularly and use pillow protectors to keep them clean and fresh.
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Are duck feather pillows good for asthma?
Some studies [4] showed that children using feather pillows experienced less wheezing than when using pillows made of synthetic fibres. 😷
However, further research on this is needed.
Other arguments indicate that feather pillows can contain proteins or allergens which can trigger asthma symptoms.
We'd recommend opting for a feather pillow that can be washed regularly to reduce the build-up of allergens and dust mites.
Alternatively, consider hypoallergenic pillows, such as memory foam pillows, which are completely dust-mite resistant.
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Are microfibre pillows and hollowfibre pillows good alternatives to duck down pillows?
Microfibre and hollowfibre pillows marketed as "feels like down" are popular alternatives to duck down.
They're designed to have a similar feel to down but at a much more affordable price point.
These synthetic materials are also often hypoallergenic and machine washable.
However, these synthetic fibres will never be quite the same quality as real duck feather and down.
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Are goose down pillows better than duck down pillows?
Goose down is considered to be of higher quality than duck down.
The filling is larger and fluffier, which makes it more resistant and durable.
Goose down also offers greater insulation and warmth, making it ideal for colder climates.
The best goose feather pillows will be cosy, durable and support the head and neck during sleep.
Duck down, on the other hand, is more readily available and less expensive than goose down.
Our article recommends some of the best down pillows UK.
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Are duck feather pillows cruel?
Most duck down is collected from animals after slaughter (around 98%, according to the RSPCA [5]).
However, PETA [6] still advocates that down is a product of animal cruelty.
Purchasing duck feather pillows that come with certifications or state they have been sourced with no live plucking will ensure your duck feather pillows have been responsibly manufactured.
Our recommendations for the best duck down pillows in the UK offer options that have been sourced ethically and humanely.
If you are unsure about using duck feather pillows altogether, then you can consider synthetic alternatives instead.
"Feels like down" pillows are made from synthetic fibres but are designed to have a similar feeling to duck down.
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What are the best extra firm feather pillows UK?
Typically, feather pillows have a soft feel that envelopes the head like a fluffy cloud.
However, if you sleep on your side, you should sleep with a firmer pillow option.
Our favourite firm feather pillows in the UK include the Vispring English Duck Down And Feather pillow and the Hypnos Feather and Down pillow.
These pillows have a high loft and medium-firm feel, ideal for side sleepers who need a bit more lift.
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References
- 1 OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100
- 2 https://icea.bio/en/certifications/non-food/biological-and-sustainable-textile-products/responsible-down-standard/
- 3 Responsible Down Standard (RDS) - Textile Exchange
- 4 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/pmc8437889/
- 5 What are the animal welfare concerns with the production of down (feathers)? – RSPCA Knowledgebase
- 6 About PETA | PETA.org
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