Island Natives

THE EIDER DUCK

The eider duck (æðarfugl) is a resilient sea bird native to the Arctic and subarctic regions, with Iceland being one of its primary nesting grounds. These remarkable birds are known for their soft, warm down, which they pluck from their own breasts to line their nests. The eiderbirds choose remote, undisturbed locations to breed, which makes Svefneyjar and similar islands ideal habitats. The islands' isolation provides the birds with a peaceful environment, free from predators and human disturbance, allowing them to thrive and return year after year to the same nesting sites.

Animal Friendly

COLLECTION PROCESS

Eiderdown collection is a sustainable, traditional practice that has been perfected over generations. The process begins while the eider ducks are still nesting, with collectors carefully removing some of the down from the nests. This is done with great care, ensuring the birds are not disturbed or harmed. The eider ducks naturally replace the down that is taken, and because they feel safe in these peaceful environments, they return to nest on the same islands year after year. This gentle, respectful approach allows for a continual and ethical harvest, ensuring the birds' well-being and the sustainability of the practice. Each nest provides only a small amount of down, making the material exceptionally rare and precious.

100% Pure

EIDERDOWN CLEANING

Once the eiderdown is collected, it undergoes a meticulous cleaning process. Since the down is gathered from nests, it contains natural debris such as grass and feathers. Traditionally, this cleaning was done by hand, with skilled workers removing impurities to reveal the incredibly light and soft eiderdown beneath. Today, while some of the cleaning is assisted by machinery, much of the process is still done manually to preserve the delicate texture of the down. The result is a pure, natural material that retains its insulating properties while being incredibly lightweight.

Locally made

DUVET CREATION

Creating an eiderdown duvet is a highly specialized and labor-intensive process. After the down is thoroughly cleaned, it is carefully spread between layers of high quality fabric. The fabric is then hand-sewn or stitched in a way that ensures the down is evenly distributed, allowing for consistent warmth and comfort throughout the duvet. Each duvet is crafted to be light, breathable, and exceptionally warm, with the craftsmanship ensuring that the down remains in place for years to come. Due to the rarity of the material and the expertise involved, every eiderdown duvet is truly bespoke and one-of-a-kind.

Made to last

OWNERSHIP & MAINTAINANCE

Owning an eiderdown duvet is a unique experience, as these luxurious duvets are designed to last a lifetime. With proper care, an eiderdown duvet can be passed down through generations. To maintain the duvet’s quality, regular airing is recommended, as well as careful handling. Eiderdown naturally resists dust mites and allergens, but it’s important to store the duvet in a cool, dry place when not in use. Professional cleaning is advised only when necessary, as the delicate nature of the down requires careful treatment. With the right care, your eiderdown duvet will continue to provide unmatched warmth and comfort for years to come.