Compare like with like
| Dimension | Recycled down | Virgin down |
|---|---|---|
| Input history | Recovered from eligible sources | New input to the filling supply chain |
| Performance | Verify composition and conditioned loft | Verify composition and conditioned loft |
| Traceability | Recovery and processing records | Source and processing records |
| Certification question | Recycled claim and chain of custody | Relevant origin and animal-welfare claims |
| Application approval | Trial in the intended construction | Trial in the intended construction |
A fair performance comparison
Use the same test method, conditioning, units and agreed acceptance criteria. Then assess samples in the same shell and construction. If fill weight or baffle geometry changes at the same time as material origin, the trial cannot isolate the effect of the filling.
A species name or a down ratio is insufficient to establish equivalence. Check definitions, permitted components, cleanliness and consistency across the lots offered for supply.
Environmental and ethical claims need their own evidence
Reusing recovered material keeps it in circulation, but that fact is not a quantified lifecycle comparison. Collection, processing, transport and allocation choices affect a lifecycle assessment. No percentage reduction should be quoted without a defined study and boundary.
Animal-welfare certification and recycled-content verification answer different questions. Avoid transferring a virgin-material claim to a recycled product without checking the standard and certificate scope.
A practical substitution trial
- Record the existing material and test protocol.
- Choose a recovered candidate with the same target requirements.
- Build a sample and test the finished-product performance.
- Review supply consistency and claim documentation before switching.
Further reading & source references
Consult the current standard or method for your project. These references explain terminology; they do not verify CIRCUDOWN’s certificates or product performance.
Textile Exchange — recycled material standards ↗IDFL — fill power and conditioning ↗