Before we can answer the question, “what is a down pillow?” we have to ask, “what is down?” The opposite of up? A grassy hill? An attempt to advance the football ten yards? Yes, yes, and yes.
But down also means the soft feathers of a bird’s undercoat. You see, ducks and geese have long, sleek feathers that repel water.
However, if you were to brush those feathers back against the grain, you would notice that there were shorter, fluffier feathers underneath.
You can see them most clearly on a chick whose topcoat hasn’t grown in yet. Birds need these to defend against cold weather because their waterproof topcoat isn’t very warm.
The down used in pillows comes from the back, wing, and chest of the animal. This down has been used as a filling for pillows and comforters since ancient times. To make down filling, manufacturers bind down together in bundles.
Tight bundles make the warm, slightly stiff filling found in a down coat or sleeping bag. Looser bundles are used in pillows and comforters.