Is a down comforter okay?

Posted by diane47 @diane47, Dec 31, 2023

I have bronch and MAC. I would like to get a new comforter for my bed and would prefer down. But would down be okay? Would polyester be better? But I have read that polyester is bad for the environment. I searched online and could not reach a conclusion. Also, I searched here and couldn't mind any previous discussion. Does exposure to birds cause lung problems??

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scoop | @scoop | Jan 1 9:58am

@diane47 Good question! I wonder this myself. There's nothing like the insulation of a down comforter.

Allergy skin testing showed that I am not allergic to down so I elected to continue use of my comforter. I have a duvet cover on it and your post is reminding me that I should wash it more frequently. Linens are changed weekly. We have two air purifiers in the bedroom which are amazing at keeping dust levels down.

From what I've read, down comforters can cause lung issues in some people, "feather lung". People who work around birds, cattle etc can develop sensitivities. You've likely read about this condition. I plan to ask my various physicians their opinions as it relates to me and bronchiectasis/asthma.
https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/mayo-clinic-minute-hypersensitivity-pneumonitis-is-your-feather-bedding-making-you-sick/