Mattress Topper Ratings >> Feather Topper Ratings
Advantages
and Disadvantages of Featherbeds -- Based On Data From 476 Actual Owners
Page
last updated May 1, 2009.
Advantages
Durability / Longevity
Based on our research, featherbeds tend to provide better durability and longevity than memory foam and fiber types. Expect a four-year or longer life expectancy.
Possibly Fewer Dust Mites / Allergies
Traditionally, people with allergies and asthma have been encouraged
to avoid featherbeds because they were thought to aggravate allergies
more than the synthetic alternatives, which are often referred to
as "hypoallergenic." However, some studies have shown that
more dust mite allergen can be found in synthetic bedding than in
feather bedding. Recent research reported at the 56th Annual Meeting
of the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (AAAAI)
shows that synthetic bedding may contain more allergens than their
feather counterparts.
Ease of Movement
Owners of featherbeds do not report having difficulty moving around
on the pad or getting up off of it. These complaints, however, are
fairly common with memory foam toppers since they are temperature
and weight sensitive. Therefore, a featherbed may be more suitable
for those who lack strength such as the sick, disabled or elderly.
Disadvantages
Need for Fluffing
17% of owners indicate that the featherbed needs fluffing or shaking
to prevent or correct the topper from being too flattened. Owners
of poorly baffled toppers reported having to fluff several times a
week, sometimes even every night. A highly baffled topper can help
to minimize the need for fluffing / shaking, however.
Feather Poking
About 9% of owners reported the problem of feathers poking through
the cover. Sometimes these feathers would poke into the body of the
sleeper causing discomfort or pain. Toppers with a high thread count
and substantial baffling tend to minimize this issue, but seldom eliminate
it.
Lumpy Appearance
7% of owners reported that the featherbed gave the bed overall a lumpy
or uneven appearance. Again, a highly baffled topper helps to minimize
this issue. However, those who desire a bed that looks perfect when
made might want to think twice before buying a featherbed.
Slides Around
In fairness, this is a disadvantage that applies to virtually all
types of mattress toppers / pads. About 6% of owners complained
that their featherbed does not stay in place and needs at least
some regular adjustment.
Some Odor
3% of owners complained of a bad smell when the topper is new which
they often attributed to the feathers. The odor generally goes away
after a few days, sometimes longer.
Poor Fit
In fairness, this tends to be an issue with all toppers. About 3%
of owners say that the dimensions of their featherbed are different,
usually smaller, than the dimensions of their mattress. This may make
sleeping on the edge of a mattress uncomfortable due to unevenness.