How to Choose the Right Duvet

Duck down or goose down? Baffles—what now? Loft or fill? Here’s what you need to know to find your perfect duvet. Choosing the right duvet is about more than warmth — it’s about comfort, craftsmanship, and finding a piece that truly suits the way you sleep. Let’s break down the essentials so you can make an informed (and cozy) choice.

Duck vs. Goose Down

The key to a quality down or feather fill is the age and maturity of the bird. Down from immature birds has poor lofting ability and breaks down more quickly. While goose down is generally considered superior to duck down, the finest down of all comes from the Eider duck — its clusters cling together for remarkable insulation and are hand-harvested from nests without disturbing the eggs.

The Shell

The outer shell is almost as important as what’s inside. Look for cotton sheeting of at least 200 thread count with tight stitching and a down-proof weave. This keeps feathers contained and ensures the surface stays smooth and comfortable — no poking quills or escaping fluff.

Weight

Weight determines warmth. Choose your fill based on season and sleep style:

• Deluxe Weight: Best for cooler rooms or cold sleepers.
• Regular Weight: A year-round option — we love the Brome Duvet.
• Summer Weight: Perfect for warm climates or hot sleepers.

TOILE TIP: If your body temperature changes seasonally, the Söving Duvet by Canadian maker St-Genève is a perfect all-in-one option.

Loft

Loft measures how much space one ounce of down fills, expressed in cubic inches. In simple terms, the higher the loft, the fluffier the duvet. Larger, mature birds produce down with higher loft, offering more insulation and volume.

TOILE TIP: For that luxurious, cloud-like look seen in magazines, choose a duvet with a loft of 600 or higher.

Construction

Construction affects both comfort and durability. Most duvets use a Baffle Box design — internal walls create compartments that keep the down evenly distributed, preventing clumping and cold spots. High-end duvets may also feature Channel or Delta construction for varied warmth and drape.

Down Alternatives

For those with feather allergies or who prefer non-animal materials, today’s down alternatives offer remarkable comfort:

• Synthetic Down: Mimics the softness and loft of natural down at a lower price point.
• Wool or Silk: Natural, breathable, and hypoallergenic — perfect for temperature regulation.
• Microfibre Down Alternative: Our favorite option for lightweight warmth and easy care.

The Final Layer of Luxury

A high-quality duvet is an investment in comfort and longevity. With proper care, it can last for decades — the true finishing touch of a beautifully made bed. When it comes to creating a restful retreat, the duvet really is the icing on the cake.

Ready to feather your nest? Our team is always here to guide you in selecting linens Don't miss our annual November sale or book a consultation with our team so we can help select the perfect bedding just for you!

With warmth,
The TOILE Showroom Team