Archive for May 20th, 2009
Tips on Choosing a Down Comforter
Finding ways to help keep the cost of heating our homes down we look for quality products that can help us redirect energy costs and allow us the efficient luxury home décor items like down comforters.
When it comes to our personal needs and the climate we live in it is crucial to know what to buy in a down comforter. Here is a reference guide to down comforters.
What is Down?
Down is the fluffy feathers found under the big feathers of a duck. This is what keeps them warm in cold weather.
Fill=Quality of the Down
The size and density of the feathers found in the comforter is the fill. The higher the number of fill the larger and stronger the comforter. Comforters with smaller feathers are lower price seem to be frail and breakdown easily. The larger feathers have more insulation and last longer.
Thread Count
The number of threads in a square inch of fabric is known as a thread count. The higher thread count in the fabric the higher quality of the yarn. The smaller thread counts allow the feathers to poke through.
These are just a few references to look at when buying a down comforter.
What is Percale?
If you’ve never paid much attention to your bed linen, you might not be aware of what percale is. In fact, you might never have heard of that term at all. But the next time you’re shopping for sheets, keep your eyes open, and you’re bound to come across the word. Percale is a type of weave distinguished for its close knit style. Because percale is actually a type of weave, the content of the fabric doesn’t determine whether it’s “percale” or not.
In this way, percale sheets can be a blend of cotton and polyester, pure cotton, or any other combination of fabric elements. The thread count of these sheets is usually at least 200 or higher. Considered a higher quality weave, it is noticeably more compact and tight than standard bed sheeting. People also often note that percale washes easily and does not deteriorate with multiple washings over time.