Unlike synthetic materials, goose down "breathes" and allows air in to create the best insulation. Synthetic fibers bunch up and prevent air from coming through. This may give you a "stuffy" feeling as you sleep, and may cause you to sweat too much, raising the risk of catching a cold. Since polyester tends to thin out with time, this type of comforter lasts only a few years, whereas goose down comforters can last several decades or longer.

The best quality goose down comforters for long-term value are made from Hungarian, hand-plucked goose feathers, which have been individually inspected for quality and have been washed thoroughly in phosphate-free soap to eliminate allergy-causing dust. Many goose down comforters are "cruelty-free" and no geese were killed to make the comforters. In addition, hand-plucking is a more humane way of extracting feathers from geese than other methods. A handmade goose down comforter is not just bedding, but can become a family heirloom, and can provide long-term value. Make goose down a tradition in your family, and you will never feel like settling for synthetic again.