[BumbleJo]

Hi folks, glorious day here in North Yorkshire.  Thinking of getting some new pillows, and wondering about composting the feathers from the old ones.  From what I have gleaned from the net it's ok to compost feathers but am wondering if pillow feathers may have been treated with something not good for the compost heap. Obviously would only add a bit at a time, don't want to make a hotel for the mice!  Thoughts appreciated!

[BabbyAnn]

I think the feathers are treated against mites such as Proneem which contains Neem oil.  There might be synthetic anti-mite concoctions though for commercial feather pillow manufactering but I don't know what it is.  It's difficult to say whether it is safe for composting or not, but consider that you've been sleeping on the pillows for some time, I doubt it would be hazardous to your health and in time should break down in the compost heap.  Personally I think it would be worth taking the risk as feathers are a good source of nitrogen.

[Asherweef]

Charles Dowding on GQT answered a question by saying that he'd be happy to just bury feather duvets in the garden as a mulch and soil enricher so I guess it would be okay but you might look a bit barmy!!!