This guide will demystify the RDS, or what is Responsible Down Standard, explaining what it guarantees, how it works, and why this certification is essential for high-quality down bedding.

What is Responsible Down Standard (RDS)?

The RDS is a global, voluntary standard that ensures down and feathers come from animals that have not been subjected to any unnecessary harm. It promotes the development of animal welfare standards in the production process of feathers and down.

The standard ensures the health and well-being of the birds throughout their lives by enforcing two non-negotiable rules:

1. No Live-Plucking: Down must not be removed from live birds.
2. No Force-Feeding: Birds must not be force-fed, which is a cruel practice related to foie gras production.

How RDS Certification Works

The integrity of the RDS relies on strict audits and traceability throughout the supply chain.

Third-Party Audits

The standard is verified by professional, independent third-party certification bodies. These auditors visit farms and processing facilities to ensure strict adherence to the animal welfare criteria.

Traceability is Key

This is known as the “chain of custody.” Certification tracks the down from the farm to the finished product, such as the comforter or pillow. If any step in the supply chain fails to meet the standard, the entire product cannot be called RDS-certified. Furthermore, finished products can only be labeled RDS Certified if 100% of the down and feathers used are certified.

Annual Review

Farms and factories are audited annually to ensure continued compliance and uphold the highest standards of humane treatment.

Why the RDS Label Matters to the Consumer

The RDS label offers benefits that go far beyond ethics, directly impacting your peace of mind and the quality of your purchase.

Peace of Mind

The most significant benefit. It allows you to enjoy the luxury of down knowing your purchase aligns with ethical values and supports the humane treatment of animals.

Quality Assurance

RDS-certified down often indicates a higher quality fill, as the program focuses on responsible, well-managed sourcing.

Sustainability

By choosing certified products, consumers support the best practices in the industry, contributing to a more humane and sustainable global supply chain. This is especially true as down is a natural, biodegradable material.

Final Words

The RDS label is the strongest, most verifiable indicator of ethically sourced down available today. At Puredown, we are committed to upholding these standards, encouraging traceability, and ensuring our down comes from farms where the humane treatment of animals is encouraged.