Do the feathers in pillows and comforters cause allergies?
An allergic reaction to feathers depends on two things: 1. How well the feathers and/or down were cleaned and sterilized before the product was manufactured (closely linked to the quality and price of the product). In the finest products, such as those imported by SWISS SLEEP SYSTEM®, the feathers and down are washed, cleaned and sterilized seven to ten times. The feathers and down used in inferior products are washed just two or three times. The cleaning and sterilization process removes dirt, dust, dander and invisible skin residues that adhere to feathers and down. These substances are the cause of most allergic reactions. 2. How well you care for the product. It is important to shake and air feather and down bedding (hang it on the clothesline to eliminate dust and moisture). These products must always be aired in the shade, as exposure to direct sunlight can cause deterioration of feathers and down. Only people allergic to bird proteins would have an allergic reaction to the down
