Good qualities of bedding for Australian climates

These days, sleeping is serious business. Busier lifestyles and longer working hours mean that sleep is a precious commodity, and when we can't have quantity, quality is important.

An important part of a comfortable nights sleep is temperature regulation, which can sometimes be difficult, especially with the recent unpredictable seasons that some attribute to climate change. Overseas visitors can be forgiven for thinking that Australia is warm and sunny 365 days a year. However for those living in Australia, particularly in the southern regions, this is not always the case. Four seasons are the norm ranging from sweaty temperatures over 40 degrees (Celsius) in summer, to below zero in winter. And every Melbourne-ian knows that four seasons in one day is often a possibility.

For winter warmth, choice of duvet of filling can make a big difference. One problem that many find with wool duvets is the smell. Natural lanolin in wool has a subtle odor, and the wool itself can absorb odor both from the user and from storage. Constant airing and careful storage is required to avoid this. Tencel, made from wool fibers, is another natural fiber filling.

Duck down/feather duvets come in a varying range. Down to feather ratio and density of fill, affect warmth, quality and price. A higher percentage of down over feathers will be much warmer. And box stitch covers are usually recommended to avoid the filling moving about.

Alpaca down filled duvets are another natural fiber alternative. Warmer than wool and without Lanolin, the hollow fibers of alpaca down can be both cool in summer and warm in winter.

A cheap and warm alternative is polyester filling, however they do not breathe like natural fibers do. Also, they do not replicate the softness and fluffiness of natural fiber that is something that many people look for in a duvet.