As temperatures drop in the southern hemisphere and energy costs rise, many individuals are searching for ways to stay warm without increasing their heating.
The blanket – or duvet, if that’s your choice – plays a key role in this effort.
However, with stores offering a range from low-cost polyester blankets to expensive down comforters costing a fortune, what is truly worth your investment?
Luckily, there is reliable textile science to help you navigate this and it’s simpler than marketing might imply.
It primarily concerns thickness
Here’s the aspect that most blanket advertisements often overlook all blankets of similar thickness will generally offer about the same level of warmth, no matter the type of filling used.
This is because a blanket's main function is to retain air around you your body generates the heat
Thus, an expensive goose down comforter is not necessarily “warmer” than a lower-priced polyester one from a discount store.
Thickness means warmth though figuring out the actual thickness of a blanket can be surprisingly challenging since manufacturers frequently do not disclose this detail.
But warmth isn’t the only important factor.
Down and feathers
Down refers to the soft, fluffy clusters that develop next to a bird’s skin for insulation, which is different from the tougher outer feathers, which are heavier and less efficient at retaining air.
Down provides significant loft (thickness) with minimal weight, giving it a light and airy sensation.
Down blankets are also promoted as being very breathable. They enable moisture (like sweat) to pass through the blanket relatively easily, reducing the chance of overheating.
With proper care down comforters can last for many years However they are derived from animals, and although most commercially available down comes from the meat industry, a significant percentage still originates from birds that have been live-plucked – a practice that is prohibited in several areas but still persists.
Mindful consumers can seek out items that carry the Responsible Down Standard certification.
Usually, down comforters are among the most expensive options available, and not all down is created equal.
Duck and goose down are the most prevalent types, with goose down typically regarded as superior (larger down clusters, better loft). However, both types are marketed in a similar manner.
For optimal quality, look for higher “fill power”, indicating that the down clusters are larger and trap more air. This results in a blanket that is thicker yet lightweight.
For those who are truly dedicated, Icelandic eiderdown (ethically harvested from Eider duck nests without harming the birds) is considered the best option though they can exceed $30,000 in price.
Wool is a formidable alternative
A wool blanket is the closest natural substitute for down.
While it doesn’t quite reach the same loft as down, it isn’t far off and offers some distinct advantages.
Wool can absorb volatile organic compounds (a category of indoor air pollutants). Studies indicate that it has a notable “buffering” effect on moisture, transferring sweat from your body much more effectively than polyester.
Similar to down, wool is another product derived from animals. Depending on its origin, wool might sometimes be a secondary product from the meat sector.
Shearing sheep is critical for the well-being of the animals; however, farming methods like tail docking and mulesing, where tissue is removed from the rear end of the lamb to lower the chance of flystrike, can raise ethical concerns.
Cotton, polyester, and bamboo?
Cotton excels at wicking moisture away from your skin, surpassing polyester but still falling short of wool’s effectiveness. It is typically simpler to maintain – an excellent option for shoppers who prefer natural fibers while being mindful of their budget.
If you tend to sleep hot, be mindful when opting for polyester. Man-made fibers retain minimal moisture, resulting in sweat needing to navigate through air spaces on its own, and water vapor does not transfer efficiently across polyester fabrics.
The consequence is that a snug warmth at night may turn into uncomfortable sweating by 2 am.
Bamboo merits mention too, but primarily as a warning. Fibers made from bamboo (usually viscose or rayon) are created by chemically breaking down raw bamboo into its parts and then forming them into semi-synthetic threads.
Assertions that bamboo products possess natural antibacterial properties or are exceptionally eco-friendly are largely without evidence – a typical instance of greenwashing.
What should I do if I have a dust mite allergy?
A study conducted in New Zealand in 2002 discovered that synthetic doonas and pillows contained higher amounts of dust mite allergens in comparison to natural fillings like down and wool.
Regardless of the type of fill, practical measures – like using dust mite-proof covers on beds and pillows, washing them regularly in warm or hot water, and using a tumble dryer – can assist in minimizing allergens.
Understanding the bed as a system
Whatever your choice may be, always review and adhere to the care and cleaning guidelines.
Select doonas that include internal "baffles" to form distinct compartments, ensuring the filling remains evenly spread during washing.
Regularly air out your bedding, utilize a doona cover, clean spots as required, and if you're unsure about laundering, consider taking it to a dry cleaner for thorough cleaning.
Placing a wool blanket between your sheets and doona (or utilizing a wool underlay atop the mattress) can enhance warmth and airflow; maintaining the wool layer closest to your body allows it to effectively absorb moisture.
In a similar vein, layering two lighter doonas may provide warmth comparable to a single thicker one.
Thus, it is beneficial to view your bed as a cohesive system instead of concentrating solely on the doona.
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