down
down is the light fluffy coating, clustered beneath the feathers of waterfowl, which protect them from the elements. most down can be found on the belly of geese and ducks. the belly is the part exposed to water, so the down keeps the bird warm in the winter and comfortably cool in the summer. the more mature the bird, the better the down. as nature's most efficient insulator, down is warm, yet light and lofty, allowing unrestricted movement. unlike synthetics, natural fill absorbs moisture during sleep, and the layers of air pockets help air circulate, lifting away perspiration for all night comfort. we use quality mature white goose down in all our ploh products.

feathers
feathers are the rigid plumage found on the outside of waterfowl. smaller feathers are often used in bedding products, and while they do provide some insulation, they are mostly used for support. unlike low quality bedding products that may contain crushed feathers, ploh items are filled with whole small feathers, thereby avoiding dust build-up from broken feathers. a special combination of down and feathers in our pillows creates an invitation to experience that enticing ploh feel and touch.

fill power
fill power refers to the lofting ability of down, or its ability to expand and fill space. some individuals need only the thinnest comforters in winter, while others need heavy duvets even in summer. fortunately, unlike synthetic bedding, down is comfortable over a wide range of temperatures. we use a fill power that is suitable for various climates.

hypoallergenic
only about 1% of the population is truly allergic to down and feathers, so most people who believe they are allergic to dander may be experiencing a reaction to dust, dirt, and other contaminants. our natural fills undergo a rigorous 7-step cleaning and treatment process using the most advanced techniques. therefore, all plohs are hypoallergenic.

cover fabric & construction
the best cover fabric is soft, absorbent, breathable 100% cotton, and must be tightly woven to prevent down clusters, and feathers from leaking. for all our down and feather products, we use cotton cambric cover fabric with an inherently tighter weave than other fabrics, with even double the thread count. the strength of the edge seam is also crucial – every ploh item is piped with our signature khaki trim and tightly double-stitched for longer wear and leakage prevention. additionally, our pillows are double-layered for protection against dirt and dust mites.

fabric quality
thread count (TC) is the number of horizontal (weft) and vertical (warp) threads woven in one square inch of fabric. in general, the higher the thread count, the softer and more luxurious the fabric. the type of fiber used is also a key factor in determining the quality of fabric. 100% pure cotton fabrics are preferred for their breathability and feel. ploh cases & covers are made of high quality fabrics from our reputable European suppliers.

when it comes to the cover fabric for down and feather products, however, it is the density of the yarn and how it is woven that are most important. we handmake all plohs with tightly woven cambric cotton fabric which has been professionally finished to insure its downproof qualities.


care for your ploh
cleaning down and feather bedding should rarely be needed (no more than once every 3 years) if they are aired and fluffed regularly, and are always covered. If cleaning is necessary, professional dry cleaning is recommended. in between cleanings, fluff your Plohs daily to reloft and replenish air inside the product.

store plohs in a linen closet or in a breathable bag in a cool, dry environment. avoid plastic bags, which trap moisture and cause mildew.

care for cases & covers
cotton sheeting should be machine washed with like colors using warm water. cotton sheets get softer with each wash and release soil easily, so softener and bleach should not be needed. tumble dry and avoid overloading to reduce wrinkling. remove promptly from dryer, smooth out and fold while still warm.