What is Eiderdown?

In simplest terms; Eiderdown is a rare and luxurious type of down collected from the nests of the eider duck, primarily found in Arctic and sub-Arctic regions. Eiderdown is known for its exceptional warmth, lightness, and softness. For these reasons, eiderdown is highly sought after for premium bedding, especially pillows and duvets.

We'll dive deeper into what eiderdown is, its unique qualities, and why it is considered one of the most expensive and exclusive bedding materials in the world. We'll also explore how eiderdown differs from other types of down, making it the ultimate choice for those seeking the finest in sleep comfort.

What is Eiderdown Used For?

Eiderdown has many practical uses in bedding and clothing. When it comes to luxury bedding, eiderdown stands in a class of its own. Known for its exceptional warmth and lightness, eiderdown is one of the most prized natural fillings for pillows, duvets, and comforters. 

Eiderdown is the soft, fluffy underlayers of feathers from the eider duck, a species that thrives in colder climates, such as Iceland, Canada, and Northern Europe. This natural insulation is harvested from the nests of the ducks, where they pluck their own down to line their nest eggs, creating a perfect protective layer. Eiderdown is incredibly lightweight, highly breathable, and provides unmatched warmth without bulk, making it perfect for high-end bedding. 

What is An Eiderdown?

An "eiderdown" can also refer to a type of comforter or duvet, often filled with the luxurious down harvested from eider ducks. These comforters are known for their exceptional warmth and softness, making them a prized addition to any bedding collection.

While Down & Feather Co. does not currently offer eiderdown comforters, we do offer a new premium eiderdown pillow

Why is Eiderdown So Expensive?

One of the most common questions related to eiderdown is always related to the high price. Eiderdown is one of the rarest and most luxurious types of down available, which makes it significantly more expensive than other varieties. Unlike other down, which is often harvested from farmed birds, eiderdown is collected sustainably by hand from the nests of wild eider ducks in the Arctic regions. This process is labor-intensive and results in a very limited annual supply.

Additionally, eiderdown has exceptional insulating properties, providing unmatched warmth and softness while remaining incredibly lightweight. Its unique combination of rarity, ethical sourcing, and superior quality makes it one of the most sought-after and costly materials for luxury bedding products.

How Eiderdown is Gathered

The process of gathering eiderdown is meticulous and labor-intensive. Ater the female eider duck lays her eggs, she lines the nest with her own down to keep them warm. Once the chicks hatch and the family leaves the nest, the down is carefully collected by hand. This manual gathering process ensures that no harm comes to the ducks or their environment. The down is then cleaned and processed, but never bleached, preserving its natural qualities. 

Because of its labor-intensive collection and limited supply, eiderdown is one of the most expensive types of down in the world. However, its longevity, warmth, and sustainability make it a worthwhile investment for your bedding. 

Icelandic vs. Canadian Eiderdown

While eiderdown from both Iceland and Canada is premium quality, there are subtle differences between the two.

Icelandic Eiderdown: Iceland is one of the most famous producers of eiderdown, harvesting about 75% of the world's supply. Icelandic eiderdown is known for its superior softness and thermal properties. The country has centuries of tradition in carefully collecting eiderdown, ensuring that the process remains sustainable and respectful to the birds. 

Canadian Eiderdown: In Canada, eider ducks can be found in coastal areas like Newfoundland and Labrador. Canadian eiderdown is also highly valued for its durability and excellent insulating qualities, often slightly denser than its Icelandic counterparts, making it especially useful for colder climates. 

Both varieties offer incredible warmth. But Icelandic eiderdown may have a slight edge in terms of lightness, while Canadian eiderdown is often favored for its thicker loft. 

Why Eiderdown is Incredible for Bedding

Eiderdown is often considered the ultimate choice for luxury bedding, and for good reason. Its unique qualities make it unparalleled in terms of comfort and performance:

• Superior Insulation: Eiderdown traps heat more effectively than other types of down, providing exceptional warmth without adding weight. This makes it ideal for duvets and comforters, especially in colder climates.

• Unmatched Softness: Eiderdown is softer than most other down types, offering a silky feel that enhances comfort. 

• Durability: Unlike other types of down that may lose their loft over time, eiderdown maintains its structure and insulating properties for decades, making it a long-lasting investment.

• Breathability: Eiderdown regulates temperature efficiently, ensuring you stay warm without overheating. It’s perfect for year-round use, adjusting to the season’s needs. 

• Ethical and sustainable: The collection of eiderdown doesn’t harm the ducks. It helps support conservation efforts in their natural habitats, making it an eco-conscious choice. 

Down & Feather Co. Eiderdown

Eiderdown is more than just a luxury; it’s a rare, sustainable treasure that offers unmatched warmth, softness, and durability. Whether sourced from Iceland or Canada, its superior insulation and breathability make it the ideal choice for bedding, providing year-round comfort. 

Shop the eiderdown pillow collection from Down & Feather Co. for unparalleled sleep!