Down and feather pillows are terms that are often used interchangeably. They aren’t one and the same, though, and knowing the difference is important when choosing which pillow you want to lay your head on each night.
Down pillows are made of feathers taken from the chest and underbelly of geese and ducks. These feathers don’t contain quills and are prized for their supreme softness. Down pillows have a longer lifespan than feather pillows and don’t compact as easily.
Feather pillows are a less-expensive alternative to down. Feathers from the back and wings of ducks and geese are used as fill and are typically mixed with some down to add extra softness. These feathers contain quills, so over time, you might find the occasional feather poking through. Go ahead and pull it out — it’s very satisfying.