What are these rocks doing in my comforter?

Question

I've had this comforter for a very very long time. You could say that it's my favorite. I'm always using it; so much so that it's faded beyond recognition because I wash it so much. (Maybe that has something to do with my problem?) Sometimes I opt to use it instead of whatever is on my bed at the time. Anyway,I notice that there was something inside of the comforter. At the top corner of the comforter there are these little "beady feeling" rocks or crumbs. I'm always rubbing on it because I'm wondering what in the world it is. Well today I finally just ripped open the corner so that I could see what was inside and there are these tiny "sandy looking" clear to white colored rocks. It kinda reminds me of those little packages that you sometimes get in new shoes or purses that are labeled "throw away and do not eat". If this is indeed what's in my comforter, why is it there?? Any ideas?

Answer 1

Could very well be silica...the stuff in the packets.  The absorb moisture.  I've never heard of them being in the comforter, but if purposely put there obviously to absorb moisture and keep your comforter fluffy, not sodden.

Answer 2

I suspect they were in there when it was new, and over time, they all ended up in one general corner.

I do not think it is silica, but just little rocks.  The process of sorting out down is not particularly precise, and birds will have a few random objects like stones in their feathers.

Answer 3

Another idea...could it be that some of the stuffing has gotten hardened by the dryer and has broken into tiny pieces?  Good question!

kel