Choosing the best doona

Wondering how to find the best doona for your bed to keep you snug as a bug this winter? Here's what to look for:

1. Warmth and weight

Some people search for bedding and doonas that provide maximum warmth, while others require light-weight doonas that suit their temperate region. Down doonas are the lightest and are great for snuggling into at night.

2. Fill power

Fill power refers to the space that the down takes inside the doona. The higher the fill power, the fluffier and lighter the doona. It also indicates a longer-lasting finish. Goose down tends to have more fill power than duck down, as it has a higher pile. Fill power can be measured in grades - 800+ is the best you can find, although 700+ is still great while 600+ is about right for a warmer climate.

3. Polyester doonas

Often used in doona quilts, polyester can be a light-weight solution for warm temperatures. Polyester doonas are mostly made from microfibre now, making them good for asthma sufferers. However, they don't breathe well or last as long as natural products.

4. Woollen doonas

Pure wool doonas can be great for warmth, and the natural texture is good for allergy sufferers. These doonas tend to weigh more, which can be a great comfort on a cold night. Wool conforms to your body's requirements, and can be great for couples where one person gets colder than the other.

5. Wash and dry

Duck and goose down are always washable and dry cleanable. New woollen doona quilts can mostly be washed, though less expensive ones will shrink. Check the label on polyester covers and always make sure your doona has the 'Ultra Fresh' symbol that shows it's dust-mite protected and anti-bacterial.

Remember, you'll get what you pay for with bedding and doonas, so expect to pay a little more for the best on the market: