Harsh truth: There is no such thing as “Responsible down.”
It takes 12 geese or 30 ducks to fill one standard size pillow. Although live plucking is illegal in the United States, 80% of the down in the world comes from China, where there are no regulations.
I can say that in the past, I have been guilty of passing through local stores and buying multiple throw pillows with down filling. I become so distracted with the beautiful fabric, or pattern that I don’t even notice what type of filling the pillow actually has.
Every 6 weeks birds feathers are plucked out without any anesthetic. This leaves the birds with gaping wounds, and they often die from the trauma of the experience.
This process is so devastating, and I promise you it is not worth the throw pillow in my home. Not to mention the feathers are not good for you, especially if you suffer from allergies.
There are so many alternatives to down, which is why I have attached PETA’s comprehensive list below. If you are shopping and unsure, squeeze the pillow and see if you can see the feathers. Look for a polyblend, which has a more solid, squishy feel!
Thank you to vegandesign.org for the vital facts and continued awareness.