What does fill power mean?
Fill power is a term commonly used in the bedding industry to describe the ability of a material to loft or fluff up. It is an important factor to consider when purchasing bedding products, as it directly impacts the comfort and warmth of the mattress or pillow. Essentially, fill power measures the volume that one ounce of down or feather fills, providing a standardized way to compare different types of bedding materials.
Fill power is typically expressed in cubic inches (cu in) and can range from 300 to over 900 cu in. A higher fill power indicates that the material will have a greater loft and provide better insulation. This is because a higher fill power means that the down or feather clusters are larger and more robust, which allows them to trap more air and retain heat more effectively.
Understanding Fill Power in Bedding Materials
When it comes to bedding materials, fill power is crucial for determining the quality and performance of the product. Down and feather are the most common materials used in pillows, comforters, and duvets, and their fill power can vary significantly.
Down Fill Power
Down is the under feathers found on the underside of ducks and geese, and it is highly prized for its warmth and lightweight properties. The fill power of down is determined by the size and shape of the down clusters. Larger clusters tend to have a higher fill power, which means they will provide better insulation and loft.
For example, a down comforter with a fill power of 600 cu in will be more lofty and insulating than one with a fill power of 500 cu in. However, it is important to note that while a higher fill power indicates better quality, it does not necessarily mean that the comforter will be warmer. The warmth of a down product also depends on the percentage of down used and the tog rating.
Feather Fill Power
Feather is another popular bedding material, often used in combination with down to provide a balance of warmth and support. Unlike down, feather clusters are smaller and less robust, resulting in a lower fill power. This means that feather-filled products will have less loft and insulation compared to down-filled products.
When considering feather fill power, it is important to look at the overall quality of the feather as well. Higher-quality feathers, such as those from the wings of geese, tend to have a higher fill power and provide better insulation.
Conclusion
In conclusion, fill power is a critical factor to consider when purchasing bedding products. It directly impacts the comfort, warmth, and overall performance of the product. By understanding the differences between down and feather fill power, consumers can make informed decisions when selecting the perfect bedding for their needs. Remember that a higher fill power does not always mean a warmer product, as other factors such as the percentage of down and the tog rating also play a significant role.
