Tog Duvets Explained
When selecting the ideal duvet, there are numerous things to take into account. There are tog ratings, fillings and the size to be considered.
A tog rating is a measure of thermal resistance. The higher the tog rating, the more warm the duvet. The thickness of a duvet does not necessarily correspond to warmth. Different fillings regulate the heat in different ways.
1. What is a tog?
A cozy duvet is crucial for a restful night's sleep However, it is essential to choose the right duvet tog to suit your preferences and the season. Bunk Beds Store are sold with a tog rating on the label, but what does this actually mean?
The tog is an overall thermal grade that allows you to determine how warm or cold the duvet will be and it does not relate to the weight (which is determined by the filling). A higher tog is an insulated duvet, with 1 being very light and cooling and 15 being the most warm.
It is crucial to choose the right tog because too much heat could lead to overheating and waking in the middle of the night. Likewise, inadequate heat can make you feel cold throughout the night. A high tog, cosy duvet will be perfect for summer. A low tog duvet that is light will be perfect for winter.
Tog ratings are usually set by the Shirley Institute in Manchester, and they work on an ascending scale, with the lowest rating of 3 and the highest rating being 15. The higher the rating, the more warm it is.
However, a tog does not necessarily equate with thickness as some duvets could have a similar tog rating but with different sizes and materials. For instance natural-fibre 7.5 tog duvets are generally thicker than their synthetic counterparts however, this doesn't mean they're more warm, as breathability has a lot to do with the material a duvet has been stuffed with. Synthetic duvets rely on hollow or microfibers for warmth, whereas natural-fibres are filled with soft materials like feathers and cotton.
2. What is the difference between natural and synthetic duvets?
Duvets are almost always equipped with a tog rating - an indication of warmth instead of thickness. The more high the tog rating the warmer the duvet. It's important to note that a duvet's temperature is only one aspect. The choice of natural or synthetic fillings is also vital.
Synthetic duvets are made with man-made materials that aim to replicate the appearance and feel of natural fibres. This is a great option for those who are allergic or overheated during the night. They're also usually cheaper than their natural counterparts, however, they do not breathe as well, which means that your skin won't be able release heat as easily.
Natural duvets are made of either goose or duck feathers. This type of duvet is incredibly soft and fluffy, and offers excellent thermal insulation. The down is sourced from the breast of the bird which is the area that provides the most heat. Some down and feathers duvets are also available in animal-free versions, which are ideal if you're a vegan.
The most appealing thing about a natural down duvet is its eco-friendly nature. This is because they make use of recycled feathers that were reclaimed and cleaned from previously loved luxury apparel (think coats and jackets). This is a great way to help reduce waste and give new life to clothes that would otherwise be to be thrown away. If you're worried about your carbon footprint, you could opt for a 100% organic wool duvet that is environmentally friendly and hypoallergenic. This is particularly helpful for those who suffer from allergies or who are sensitive to chemicals.
3. What is the ideal tog for every season?
When selecting a duvet the season you're in as well as your personal preferences are crucial factors. If you're more susceptible to being hot in the evening it is recommended to pick a duvet with a lower tog.
If you share a mattress with a spouse, it is important to take into account their preferences. While you might like the feel of a thicker duvet, they may feel too heavy or heavy for your partner. A medium-sized tog might be the ideal compromise and let you both take advantage of the warmth you both prefer.
The air-flow of the duvet is another factor to consider. The material used to fill the duvet is a significant element. Natural fibres are usually more breathable than synthetic alternatives. There are duvets that have a lower tog but a higher tog that are suitable for all season. They strike the perfect balance between warmth and breatheability.
For warm summer nights for summer nights, the 4.5 tog duvet will provide warmth without being overheated. It's also a great choice for those who experience hot flashes in the evening.
If you're looking for something a little more cosy for the UK winter months, an duvet with 13.5 tog is ideal. It's perfect for those who sleep with a warm duvet. It can be paired with a lighter blanket or throw for colder nights.
If you are unsure which one will work for you best, you can opt for a duvet with dual-togs, which let you alter the heat to your personal temperature. Be aware that you'll need to have a large-capacity washing machine to ensure that it is cleaned properly.
4. What is the best tog?
If you and your partner have different sleeping preferences There are a number of options available to ensure that you both get a good night's sleep. One option is a temperature-regulating duvet, which helps to keep you at your optimum sleeping temperature and will release heat when needed. This is ideal for summer, or if someone suffers from hot flushes.
A duvet with a 2-in-1 design is an additional alternative. This allows each person to select their own half section, tailoring it with the filling and tog rating that suits them. The half sections are joined together to create a full-sized duvet which can be used throughout the year. Silentnight's duvet, Yours and Mine, is a great illustration. One side has a duvet that has a 4.5-tog rating, while the other side has a 7.5-tog rating. This lets you find your ideal degree of warmth.
If you prefer a traditional style duvet, there's a wide range of fillings and tog ratings available to meet your needs. If you are allergic to feathers and down, you can choose a synthetic duvet that is made from hypoallergenic materials. Duvets can be enriched with additional features that enhance comfort, like the use of a light-blocking fabric or noise-cancelling feature.
The ideal tog will depend on the time of year your sleeping habits, and your personal preferences. But with numerous duvets to pick from, finding the right one shouldn't be difficult - especially with our handy guide! Once you've found your ideal duvet, it's the matter of getting peaceful sleep. You can also add a supportive mattress to your bed and purchase some relaxing pillowcases, all of which are available at very low prices.
5. What is the best tog for children?
Children's bodies are smaller, and they tend to have trouble regulating their temperature so it's essential for them to sleep in duvets that have low tog ratings. It is crucial to give blankets or sleeping bags to infants who are susceptible to overheating. As toddlers and children can regulate their body temperature more effectively. They might require a slightly higher duvet rating in winter. However, it is best to stay away from going too high, as they may still overheat.
It is recommended to select a duvet made of natural fillings for your children. They are soft, breathable and will ensure they are comfortable. This White Company Super Soft Duvet is made of Smartfil microfibre from PET bottles that have been recycled, making it a fantastic choice for allergy sufferers as it isn't irritating to skin and has anti-bacterial properties. It is machine washable which helps keep its freshness.
For summer, select duvets that has a lower rating, such as 4.5 to keep your child comfortable and cool. It can be easily layered with a 9.0 tog or 13.5 tog duvet for warmth, depending on the temperature of your child's bedroom and their preferences.
In winter, a duvet that has 10.5 tog is ideal. 10.5 tog is perfect as it adds insulation, but is not too heavy for warmer months. It can be placed over a 9.5 tog or 13.5 tog duvet as well to get the perfect mix of lightness and warmth.