Feather extraction

VDFI e.V. is made up of 25 companies which produce and offer down- and feather-filled duvets/pillows as well as components for the manufacture of these items. For the purpose of sustainable business, the bedding industry processes down and feathers that are obtained as a by-product of poultry production.

The members condemn all forms of feather and down extraction from live animals which violate European law, and pledge not to procure filling materials from any procedure that inflicts pain upon animals. This obligation has been assumed by the companies as an additional stipulation in their purchase contracts and terms and conditions.

VDFI e.V. defines the following criteria for the recognition of supply chain traceability systems:

1. The traceability of feathers and down shall be ensured back to the breeding farm, with the possibility of extending this to the parent farm if necessary.
   
   
2. Through traceability, it is possible to identify and exclude feathers and down that have been obtained as a by-product of foie gras production.
   
   
3. The supply chain shall be reviewed through announced and unannounced audits (at least every two years).

These criteria shall be periodically reviewed (at least every 2 years) by the General Assembly.

Sustainable Business – Making use of traceability

Given this situation, the work of the Association of the German Down and Feather industry is to document the harvesting of down and feathers. We regularly inform you about the current status.

In the VDFI 25 companies have come together. These companies produce and offer down and feather-filled duvets and pillows as well as other components of the produced products. The bed-feather industry, in terms of sustainable business, provide down and feather obtained as a by-product of poultry production.

The purpose of the traceability system is to document the association members beyond just their purchases of down and feathers. Regular audits are carried out by independent testing and certification organizations. The business practices of the companies are also checked regularly.

What is EN 12934 ?

Disposal

Through professional preparation down and feathers can be re-used. Therefore, they can be found, for example, in the cushions of furniture. Also once they have been worn out, they can be used as environmentally friendly fertilizer.
Studies were conducted at the University of Hohenheim for "use of feather meal as organic nitrogen fertilizer in agriculture and horticulture", where the nutrient content of feather meal, horn meal and manure were comparatively investigated.

Comparison of Feather Meal, Horn Meal and Manure

Down and feathers that are worn out can be used as an excellent nitrogen fertilizer, which can be used in planters and flower beds, even for private use.
The microorganisms in the soil decompose the feathers so that their components can be absorbed by plants.

... under duvets in the right size

Duvets are available in different sizes - but which size is best? The standard sizes for duvets have changed over the last fifty years. This is partly due to the increased height of the buyer, but also to the desire for more comfort. Until 1950, the production was still done mainly by hand, then because of increasing industrialization more uniform and precise measurements were established.

The standard width measurements of a duvet are now 135, 155, or 200cm, where their length measurements are 200 or 220 cm. Various combinations are available; however, the default size is 135 x 200 cm. A sufficient size, for a person with the height of 180 cm, is 135 x 200, but for more comfort, we recommend 155 X 220. The sizes of 135 x 220 and 155 x 200 are being purchased less frequently today and the size 155 x 220 is becoming increasingly more important.

Pillows are available in hundreds of variants. The classic measurement is 80 x 80 cm. A narrow version is available for optimal support of the neck and spine. Generally, only the head should be on the pillow - not the shoulder. A high portion of feathers gives the cushion a special supporting force. It is best to try various kinds and see what suits you best.

... with the appropriate temperature class

How do you sleep? In heated bedroom or even with the windows open during the winter months? Are you looking for a light summer blanket or extra warm winter bed? Would like an an all-year blanket? Or what about one for a transition bed?

In addition to the dimensions, it is important to consider the appropriate temperature class or heat category most suitable for you. This demands on your own sleeping preferences and room conditions. Different manufactures share commonalities with different temperature classes. You are able to find corresponding information and instructions on the products about this. Different temperature classes are described here:

Heat category 1 - Suitable for very warm bedrooms and a (slight) summer bed - for sleepers with very gentle warmth requirements

Heat category 2 - For slightly heated rooms and for warmer transition temperatures

Heat category 3 - For cooler transition temperatures and as a year-round cover, for normal temperature-controlled bedrooms and normal warmth requirements

Heat category 4 - For cold rooms and for winter blankets with higher heat requirement

Heat category 5 - extra warm winter blankets for cold bedrooms and with a very high heat requirement

... in a comfortable sleeping climate

First you want to selection of the correct dimension, temperature class and filling of your duvet. Then you want to determined the appropriate pillow, which provides the best support for your neck and shoulders. In addition, your quality of your sleep can be affected by the decor and layout of your room so try and have an appropriate layout. Then waking up refreshed and well rested is no obstacle.

Several aspects of dust mite allergies should especially be taken into account. The best strategy for prevention of unpleasant allergic symptoms, of course, is avoiding allergy triggers.

• Having suitable plastic rug mats or good wipe-able coverings for the floors
• Avoid upholstered bed fabrics.
• Choose curtains with materials that are easily washable.
• Furnish with mattresses with mite-proof covers.
• Wash bedding weekly in 60-95 ° C. Incidentally, feather and down bedding can be washed according to the care instructions and can be tumble dried.
• Pay attention to the suitable selection of bedding for house dust mite allergies: NOMITE® products, for example, are suitable for house dust mite allergy sufferers.
• Wash stuffed animals regularly at 60 ° C or put them in the fridge for up to 2 days in order to kill the dust mites.
• Ventilate bedrooms regularly and try not to heat the room too much. Also try to avoid undressing in the bedroom because it can increase dander. Dander is the source of food for dust mites.

... without heat accumulation

Whether a sleeper feels good in bed or not, is largely determined by the climate in the bed.

The insulating effect of a blanket depends primarily on

• the filling material (for example, down and feathers)
• the filling quantity (in grams)
• Construction materials/process (for example, workmanship of the inner webs and geometry of the stitching)>
• the Bausch behavior, i.e. the ability of the filling to bind with the air, as this air cushion is extremely important for the insulation capacity of the blanket.
• the conformability (i.e., the blanket has the ability to adapt to the shape of the sleeper and his/her movements)

Down and feather filled bedding can be individually prepared to specific needs of the sleeper. Adjusting to an appropriate room temperature to accommodate the heat radiation of the body and the movement during sleep. Also by varying the blanket’s height, the fill weight, the stitching, the bed can be "tailored" to your needs.

The ambient temperature and the room temperature should also be considered depending on the seasonal temperature. The requirements of the blanket for the respective sleeper are crucial. For example: People who get cold easily in the winter months should definitely consider a warmer duvet, where in the summer months, a lighter duvet should be considered.

... with perfect care

Down and feather beds are grateful and frugal. In dry weather, close to an open window, they are sure to last and retain their functionality to provide a restful sleep.

The filling is loosened, and new air spaces are created. Air also ensures the removal of overnight moisture.

Down and feathers are not afraid of water; however, please pay attention to a thorough drying!
Never place Bedding in sunshine.
Tapping and vacuuming are taboo!

The cleaning of the filling can be done in bed specialist shops. The duvet and the pillow can be machine washed and then dried in a sufficiently large dryer. Please note the care instruction labels, which are located on the bed piece.

Here you can download brochures and various movies free of charge, all about feathers and down.

Flyers

Films

Links

The VDFI is member of: