The Evolution of "Down" Throughout History

Down, the soft and fluffy material that has become synonymous with comfort and warmth, has a rich history that spans centuries. Its journey from nature to our bedrooms is a fascinating tale of human ingenuity and adaptability.

The History of Down

The use of down as insulation can be traced back to ancient civilizations. The ancient Egyptians, for example, incorporated down into their bedding, recognizing its ability to provide warmth and comfort. In ancient Rome, wealthy citizens enjoyed the luxury of down-filled mattresses and pillows. These early uses of down were rudimentary compared to today's standards, but they laid the foundation for the future.

Throughout the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, down continued to be a symbol of luxury and comfort. It was often reserved for the elite and aristocratic classes due to its relative scarcity and cost. The demand for down grew, prompting the development of methods for ethical harvesting and processing it more efficiently.

The 18th century marked a turning point in the history of down. Innovations in farming and feather collection techniques allowed for more accessible access to down, making it increasingly available to the general population. During this time, down became a staple of bedding and outerwear for those who could afford it.

In the 20th century, down went through a revolution with the advent of modern manufacturing techniques. Down-filled jackets, sleeping bags, and pillows became popular for their lightweight warmth. The development of synthetic alternatives also made it even more accessible, affordable and provided much needed vegan-friendly options. Today, down is a ubiquitous material used in a wide range of products, from high-end bedding to outdoor gear as started from ancient discoveries to modern innovations, all driven by our pursuit of warmth and comfort.

Best Down Bedding Products

As many of us prefer to stay warm throughout the night, down has become a staple in most bedrooms. Here are some of our favorite products that incorporate down to provide quality comfort and warmth.

Down Duvet Insert

Our down duvet inserts are filled with 600+ European White Goose Down, renowned for its natural large clusters, which provide toasty warmth, ultra soft comfort, and long-lasting wispy light fluff that remains, wash after wash. Crafted with a 3-dimensional baffle box construction for a balanced and even fill, our duvets are made to keep you comfortable all night long.

Down Pillow Insert

Finish off your bed with a down pillow that is sure to give you a soothing rest. Our down pillows are medium firm for the perfect balance to keep your head supported throughout the night. Double-stitched closed to prevent poke-through and finished with a lustrous satin piping all around.

Down Mattress Topper

One of our newest products, our down mattress topper is the ultimate luxury bedding essential. Over 3” of cloud-like cushions paired with genuine European White Goose Down enhances your sleeping experience with an additional layer of comfort and support. 

“No Fowl Play” 

At Pure Parima, we ensure a safe practice for sourcing our down products. All of our down is Responsible Down Standard Certified by ⓒTextile Exchange for humane and responsible treatment. Down is 100% a byproduct of the food industry meaning no live-plucking and no force-feeding. Take a look at what being Responsible Down Standard Certified means in more detail here. 

Shop Down Products & More with Pure Parima

Find all your bedding essentials from 100% Egyptian cotton sheets to inserts and protectors for the bed of your dreams. Create a space you can call your own with genuine, certified, and authentic bedding made to keep you comfortable and cozy each and every night. Not sure which product is right for you? Take our quiz for a personalized recommendation. Sign up for our newsletter for special offers and new product launches!