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A comforter can add warmth and coziness to a bed and a down comforter is often sought after for its insulating feel. Having high-quality bedding is beneficial for sleepers, as it can help create a relaxing bedroom environment and regulate temperature at night.

A down comforter is filled with the soft clusters found underneath the feathers of ducks and geese that provide insulation. Down is durable, warm, and ideal for a range of climates and sleeping preferences. But there is a wide variety of down comforters on the market today and it can be easy to become overwhelmed as a shopper.

In addition to the different types of down comforters there are, shoppers may also want to consider the ethical nature of down and how it is sourced. There are ways to ensure a down comforter is made with high-quality construction methods and responsibly sourced down, which we’ll break down later on.

We’ll help shoppers select a down comforter that suits their needs with reviews of our top picks on the market today. We’ll include detailed information on the pricing and performance of the best down comforters, in addition to a buyer’s guide that breaks down the pros and cons of down comforters. Lastly, we’ll answer frequently asked questions about down comforters, including how to care for them.

In-Depth Reviews

  • Who it’s best for

    1. Those who tend to sleep hot

    2. Sleepers who want a comforter they can use year-round

    3. Shoppers who want a generous sleep trial and warranty coverage

  • Highlights

    1. Choice of three weights for comfort in all seasons

    2. Made in Canada with ethically sourced down

    3. 365-night sleep trial

Price

$379

Cover Material

Cotton

Fill Material

Down

The Brooklinen Down Comforter is lightweight and can be used year-round instead of switching it out each season. Shoppers have their choice of lightweight, which is better for hot sleepers and warmer climates, all-season, which is slightly warmer but still breathable, and ultra-warm, which is designed for extra weight and coziness.

The 100% cotton shell has a sateen weave with a light sheen. Cotton is highly breathable and encourages air circulation throughout the comforter, which helps dissipate heat and keep sleepers comfortable.

The down cluster fill varies depending on the comforter’s weight, and is ethically sourced from Europe as well as Hutterite Farms in Canada. The lightweight Brooklinen Down Comforter is filled with 650 fill power down, while the all-season version is filled with 700 fill power down, and the ultra-warm version has 750 fill power down. The baffle box construction keeps the down fill evenly distributed and prevents the shifting or clumping of the down clusters.

Additional maintenance is required to keep the Brooklinen Down Comforter looking its best, and airing it outside can help the down clusters maintain their loft. Purchasers can also fluff the comforter in the dryer with no heat. Any small spills or stains should be spot cleaned. Larger stains will require professional dry cleaning, which can reduce the lifespan of the down comforter. A duvet cover is recommended to protect the comforter and the Brooklinen Down Comforter is designed with corner loops that help keep the comforter in place inside of the cover.

The Brooklinen Down Comforter is produced in sizes twin/twin XL, full/queen, and king/California king. Brooklinen offers a 365-day sleep trial, so purchasers can put the Down Comforter to the test for all four seasons. The comforter is covered by a lifetime warranty.

  • Who it’s best for

    1. Cotton sateen cover has a shiny finish

    2. White down with 650-fill power

    3. Sewn-through baffle boxes distribute fill evenly

  • Highlights

    1. Those who prefer the smooth feel of a sateen weave

    2. Value seekers

    3. Hot sleepers who like the fluffy feel of down

Price

$160

Cover Material

100% cotton sateen

Fill Material

RDS-certified 650-fill power white down

Quince’s Premium Down Comforter offers a luxurious feel at an affordable price. Shoppers looking for quality materials on a budget may want to consider this comforter.

A cover made of 100% cotton encases the comforter is naturally breathable to keep sleepers cool in warmer months. Meanwhile, the sateen weave has a silky feel that drapes closely to the body to help insulate in colder months. You can also choose between two weight options: all-season and lightweight. Hot sleepers or people living in warmer climates may prefer the lighter option, while the all-season is best for shoppers seeking a comforter to use year-round.

The comforter contains white down with 650-fill power, which is a mid-range fill power that should keep hot sleepers cool throughout the night. A sewn-through construction also ensures that the fill stays evenly distributed. The comforter is fully machine washable. Quince recommends washing in cold water on a gentle cycle and drying on the lowest setting. Customers can choose from three sizes: twin, full/queen, and king/California king.

Quince offers free ground shipping on all orders. Shoppers can try out the Premium Down Comforter with a lengthy 365-day trial.

  • Who it’s best for

    1. Eco-conscious shoppers

    2. Customers who use duvet covers

    3. People who tend to run hot at night

  • Highlights

    1. Breathable organic cotton cover

    2. 650 fill-power white down with a baffle box construction to prevent shifting

    3. Three fill density options

Price

$409

Cover Material

100% organic cotton

Fill Material

IDS-certified down

Boll & Branch’s Down Duvet Insert is a high-end option with a high-quality design and sustainable materials to match. This insert boasts an International Down Standard certification, ensuring that the down is produced with animal welfare in mind. Customers can also choose from three weight options, depending on their local climate and sleep temperature preferences.

The insert has a shell made from 100% organic cotton, which is naturally breathable and soft to the touch. Down tends to trap heat more than other fill materials, but the cotton helps reduce heat buildup to regulate temperature. The corners of the shell have small loops to secure the insert to a duvet cover and prevent shifting. The fill consists of lofty, 650 fill-power white down. Baffle-box stitching keeps the fill evenly distributed, resulting in a plush feel across the surface that resists bunching at the feet.

Lightweight, midweight, and ultraweight options are available. Hot sleepers or those living in warmer climates may prefer the lightweight option. The midweight option is ideal for those seeking an all-season comforter. People who tend to run cold at night or live in a colder climate may opt for the ultraweight.

Customers can choose between full/queen and king/California king sizes. The insert is machine-washable, but two drying cycles are recommended to remove all moisture. Boll & Branch provides free ground shipping to all 50 states, and the company allows you to return the Down Duvet Insert within 30 nights of the original delivery date.

  • Who it’s best for

    1. Those wanting a comforter to use year-round

    2. Customers who use duvet covers

    3. Hot sleepers

  • Highlights

    1. Breathable cotton cover

    2. 600-fill power Canadian duck down

    3. Available in all-season and lightweight options

Price

$290

Cover Material

100% cotton

Fill Material

100% Candian duck down

Silk & Snow’s Down Duvet Insert combines the insulation from down and the breathability of cotton to create a product perfect for year-round use. It also comes in two weights, all-season and lightweight, so that customers can choose their desired insulation.

The duvet insert is filled with 600-fill power Canadian duck down for a luxuriously plush feel. It insulates efficiently during colder months, while the cotton in the cover helps regulate temperature during warmer months. The cotton is smooth to the touch and should be comfortable for those with sensitive skin. Customers wanting a heavier insert to stay warm during the winter may opt for the all-season option. Hot sleepers or those living in warmer climates may prefer the lightweight option for minimal insulation.

Silk & Snow does not recommend machine washing the duvet insert. Instead, spot clean for small messes and dry clean for a deep clean. The company suggests using a machine-washable duvet cover to protect the insert. The insert comes in three sizes: twin/twin XL, full/queen, and king/California king.

Along with free shipping to the contiguous U.S. and provincial Canada, Silk & Snow offers a 100-night sleep trial. If you are not satisfied with the product, you can return it for a full refund. The Down Duvet Insert comes with a 1-year warranty.

  • Who it’s best for

    1. People with sensitive skin

    2. Animal-conscious consumers

    3. Those who reside in places prone to chilly weather

  • Highlights

    1. Luxurious design consists of 700 fill power down wrapped in a cotton sateen shell

    2. Available in lightweight and all-season designs

    3. All orders include a 365-night trial period

Price

$240

Cover Material

100% cotton sateen

Fill Material

700 fill power European white goose down

Few bedding materials can match the decadent plushness of real goose down. Quince’s Luxe Goose Down Comforter contains down with a fill power of 700, ensuring an exceptionally lofty feel, and a cotton sateen shell provides additional softness. The cotton is smooth enough to soothe people with sensitive skin, and the fabric’s natural breathability helps offset the down’s heat-retaining tendencies.

You can choose from two designs for the comforter. If you’re an exceptionally hot sleeper or you reside in a place prone to extreme heat or humidity, the lightweight design should allow you to sleep cool most of the year. The all-season design is a bit thicker and heavier, making it better suited to locales with more temperate weather. Both designs are quilted with sewn-through baffles and double-stitched borders to evenly distribute the fill.

Corner loops enable you to secure the comforter to a duvet cover. While technically machine-washable, you may need commercial-grade appliances to accommodate the comforter. You also have the option to dry clean. Twin, full/queen, and king/California king comforters are available, all of which are oversized to ensure plenty of coverage.

The Luxe Goose Down Comforter is affordably priced compared to many competing inserts, and Quince offers free ground shipping for U.S. orders. The company’s 365-night trial period is one of the longest in the online bedding industry, giving you plenty of time to sleep with the comforter and decide whether it’s right for you.

  • Who it’s best for

    1. Those who usually sleep hot with down comforters

    2. Anyone who is unsure whether they’re allergic to real down

    3. Couples who enjoy sharing comforters

  • Highlights

    1. Breathable cotton shell minimizes overheating

    2. Hyperclean down is washed several times to remove allergens

    3. Thinner profile ideal for all-season use

Price

$200

Cover Material

100% cotton (230TC)

Fill Material

550 fill power Hyperclean down

Part of Pacific Coast’s Hotel collection, the Down Grand Loft Comforter epitomizes the timelessly urbane look and feel of hotel-style bedding. A box-stitch design with wide baffles and oversize dimensions ensures a lofty feel, even fill distribution, and plenty of coverage for you and your partner. Twin, queen, and king sizes are available, and the latter two come equipped with corner loops for attaching a duvet cover.

The fill consists of proprietary Hyperclean down clusters. The down is washed at least eight times to remove potential allergens. As an extra precaution, Pacific Coast backs each purchase with a 30-night “allergy-free warranty” to ensure you don’t experience symptoms. This is especially helpful if you aren’t sure whether you are allergic to down. The shell is pure cotton with a 230 thread count to ensure consistent breathability, and the comforter has a thin profile that makes it ideal for year-round use.

Approachable pricing and free shipping within the contiguous U.S. make the Hotel Down Grand Loft Comforter a good option for shoppers with limited budgets. In addition to the allergy-free warranty, your purchase includes a standard trial period that runs for 30 nights.

  • Who it’s best for

    1. Cold sleepers who enjoy cozy bed coverings

    2. Sleepers with sensitive skin

    3. Shoppers seeking a comforter with a lengthy trial period

  • Highlights

    1. Hefty construction ensures excellent warmth and insulation

    2. Shell is composed of smooth, breathable cotton sateen

    3. All purchases are backed by a 365-night trial period

Price

$509

Cover Material

100% cotton sateen

Fill Material

Down

One of three designs available for the Brooklinen Down Comforter, the Ultra-Warm option is packed with plush fill to ensure heavy-duty warmth and insulation when you need it most. Down clusters and feathers make up the sumptuous fill, and a cotton sateen shell adds to the luxuriously soft design.

A fill power of 750 means the comforter feels remarkably lofty. The comforter’s baffle boxes are sewn through — this helps keep the fill evenly distributed, so there shouldn’t be any bothersome clumping or shifting during the night. Tie closures along the perimeter allow you to secure the comforter to a duvet cover. Brooklinen sells a matching cover if you want to bundle your purchase and save some money.

Full/queen and king/California king sizes are available. Due to the large size and heft, you should avoid machine-washing because this can damage both the comforter and your machine. Spot clean as needed if stains occur and arrange for dry cleaning on a semi-annual basis.

All orders within the contiguous U.S. include free shipping and a generous 365-night trial. If you aren’t satisfied with your Brooklinen Down Comforter – Ultra-Soft during this time frame, you may return it for a full refund minus a $10 processing fee.

  • Who it’s best for

    1. Sleepers who use duvet covers

    2. Animal-conscious individuals

    3. Shoppers looking for a comforter with a wide color selection

  • Highlights

    1. Four weight options to suit different warmth preferences, including all-season “medium” weight

    2. RDS-certified fill and durable cotton-twill shell

    3. More than 20 color options

Price

$269

Cover Material

100% cotton (295 TC)

Fill Material

RDS-certified 500-550 fill power down/feather fill

Lightweight down comforters are usually best suited for warm or humid weather, while heavier comforters provide much-needed insulation in chillier climates. On the other hand, an all-season comforter offers a balance of loft and airflow to help you sleep soundly throughout the calendar year. The medium-weight LaCrosse Down Comforter from The Company Store is a prime example. The comforter weighs 35 ounces in a queen size, so it won’t feel too light during colder times of the year, but a breathable cotton cover prevents you from overheating when the temperatures rise.

If you’re in the market for a different style of comforter, you can choose from three additional weights. The “light” option – 27 ounces in a queen size – offers minimal insulation and sleeps quite cool. This may be the best option for people who reside in hot places or sweat in their sleep. The “extra” and “ultra” weights provide the most loft and warmth. Either of these weights should keep you sufficiently cozy in frigid conditions.

All versions of the comforter are constructed with 75/25 down and feather fill encased in a shell of cotton twill. A certification from the Responsible Down Standard ensures the ducks are treated humanely during each step of the plumage extraction process. The shell fabric is fairly durable compared to other cotton weaves like percale or sateen, and its smooth hand-feel should feel comfortable for people with sensitive skin. Perimeter piping and sewn-through baffle boxes keep the fill evenly distributed and help prevent it from escaping.

The entire comforter can be washed and dried in household machines, though The Company Store recommends using a front-loading washer to avoid damaging both the comforter and the machine. Five sizes are available, all of which correspond with standard mattress dimensions. You can also choose from more than 20 different colors, ranging from whites and neutrals to earth tones and bright shades.

The LaCrosse Down Comforter’s price depends on which weight and size you select. The Company Store offers free ground shipping for all orders in the contiguous U.S. of $50 or more, including all versions of the comforter. Each purchase is backed by a 90-night trial period and a lifetime guarantee.

What is a Down Comforter?

A down comforter is a popular bedding piece that has a high loft and fluffy, cozy feel. It is filled with down for exceptional warmth. Down is the plumage underneath the feathers of birds, and duck and goose down is commonly used for luxury bedding. Duck down is soft, lightweight, and insulating. Goose down tends to form in larger clusters for better insulation. Since down forms in clusters and does not have sharp quills, the result is a soft comforter.

There are various construction methods used for down comforters, which we will break down in depth later on. In addition to the type of down used, shoppers should also consider the fill power, construction, and design of the down comforter.

Down comforters differ from down alternative and other comforters when it comes to price, warmth, and quality. Down comforters are typically made with natural materials and tend to be more expensive than other options. Down alternative comforters are filled with synthetic fiber fill to imitate the feel of down at a more affordable price-point.

We’ll help shoppers know what to look for when choosing a down comforter, in addition to the pros and cons that should be considered before making a purchase.

How to Choose a Down Comforter

A down comforter feels cozy and soft while adding warmth to the bed, but how do you know you are picking the right one? The quality of materials and construction are important to consider, in addition to price. We’ll break down essential considerations for shoppers here.

What to Consider When Purchasing a Down Comforter

Purchasing a down comforter can feel overwhelming, especially with so many options to choose from. Understanding what to look for can help shoppers narrow down their choices and pick a down comforter that suits their needs.

Many companies label their bedding as luxury, which can be misleading. The luxury label can cause inflated prices and confusion for shoppers, so we encourage shoppers to look beyond labels and product marketing and focus on the following instead.

These features, which we’ll break down below, determine how the down comforter will perform in terms of durability, temperature regulation, and overall comfort. A high-quality down comforter is an investment, and shoppers want to feel confident they are choosing one that is designed to last. A well-constructed down comforter will last for many years, especially with proper care.

Quality Materials
Down comforters are often sought after for their durability and quality construction. When considering the quality of materials, shoppers should look at the shell, fill, and design. The shell material will likely be made with cotton, as it is breathable and soft, but some comforters are made with wool, silk, or synthetic fabrics. To determine the quality of the down fill, shoppers can consider the type of down and its fill power, in addition to the supply chain and any relevant certifications. The stitching should keep the fill in place. Extended warranty coverage can also speak to the quality of the comforter.

Size
The size of the down comforter should correspond to the mattress size, though some are designed to fit two similar sizes, such as a full/queen size. Shoppers should decide how much of the comforter they want to hang over the edges of the bed and double-check the manufacturer’s measurements before purchasing. There are variations in sizing between manufacturers, which will be important if shoppers plan to use the comforter inside of a duvet cover.

Weight
The weight of a down comforter is often measured in ounces, indicating how much down fill is used. In addition to weight, shoppers should factor in fill power, which measures how much room one ounce of down fill takes up. Higher fill power means more warmth, as do heavier weights. Shoppers may want to consider what season or climate they plan to use the comforter in, and whether or not they tend to sleep hot.

Design
A down comforter can be paired with a duvet cover, so the down comforter itself is often simple in terms of design and color. That said, many down comforters are woven with subtle stripes or patterns or available in more than one color. The stitching used to keep the down fill from shifting also creates a design, which can include box, diamond, or channel patterns.

Price
A down comforter can be expensive, but it is also a valuable investment due to its durability. Shoppers should expect to pay more than they would for a down alternative comforter, but the price range can vary widely. Setting a budget before shopping is helpful, as is keeping an eye out for sales and promotions.

Temperature Regulation
Down is naturally insulating, so it provides plenty of warmth but is still breathable. Different fill powers determine how well the down comforter regulates temperature. Hot sleepers and those who live in warmer climates may want to look for a lightweight down comforter with a fill power of 600 to 700, while those who want added warmth may opt for 700 to 850 fill power.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Down Comforters?

There are several pros and cons of down comforters, which shoppers will want to keep in mind before making a purchase. One of the main benefits of a down comforter is its durability. The natural down clusters provide warmth and comfort for many years, especially if the comforter has a high-quality construction.

The drawback to the durability of a down comforter is that it comes with a higher price tag. While a down comforter can provide a valuable return on your investment, it is more expensive upfront than other comforter types.

ProsCons
  • Durability: Down is highly durable when cared for properly, and a down comforter has a longer than average lifespan.
  • Warmth: Down acts as insulation, keeping sleepers warm. The range of fill power and weights available ensures there is an option for most sleeping preferences and climates.
  • Breathability: Down comforters tend to be breathable.
  • Soft Feel: Many sleepers find the lofty, pillowy feel of a down comforter to be cozy.
  • Cost: Down comforters tend to be one of the most expensive varieties, especially when made with high-quality or luxury materials.Maintenance: To preserve the loft and integrity of the down fill, the comforter should be fluffed regularly and professionally cleaned.Limited Color Options: Most are designed to be paired with a duvet cover, so color options can be limited.Not Suitable for Vegan Shoppers: Down is an animal byproduct.

What Types of Down Comforters are Available?

When selecting a down comforter, the quality of the materials used will matter more than the materials themselves. That said, there are different types of down comforters available, and it is helpful for shoppers to understand their options before deciding on a down comforter.

Duck Down vs. Goose Down

Down comforters will be filled with either duck down or goose down. Both act as insulation, providing warmth for sleepers while promoting breathability.

  • Duck Down: Duck down forms in smaller clusters, resulting in a soft and lightweight feel. Mature ducks form larger down clusters, which can result in a higher fill power.
  • Goose Down: Goose down tends to form in larger clusters and have a higher fill power and loft.

Fill Power

It is essential for shoppers to compare comforters beyond duck vs. goose down, since both types of down have similar durability and insulating properties. Fill power indicates how warm the comforter will be, in addition to the size and quality of the down. Common fill powers range from below 400 to 800 and above.

  • Lower Fill Power: The lower end of this spectrum indicates smaller clusters of less insulating down. Fill power below 500 can indicate that the down was harvested from younger birds, rather than mature ones.
  • Mid-Range Fill Power: The mid-range is ideal for hot sleepers and warmer climates, as it provides insulation without retaining too much heat. Shoppers looking for an all-season comforter often select one that is 600 to 700 fill power.
  • High Fill Power: Fill power of 700 and above can provide ample warmth and insulation for winter months. The higher the fill power, the larger and more insulating the clusters of down are. High fill power typically indicates the down was sourced from mature birds.

Cover Materials

The cover material of the down comforter impacts temperature regulation and price.

  • Cotton: Cotton is often used, as it is highly breathable and moisture-wicking. Long-staple cotton, such as Egyptian cotton, results in a smoother, softer fabric.
  • Silk: Silk is also used for its lightweight, breathable feel, but it tends to be pricier and harder to maintain.
  • Wool: Wool is another natural fiber that can be used, as it wicks away heat and moisture while increasing airflow throughout the comforter.
  • Synthetic blends: Synthetic fibers, including polyester, can be used for the comforter shell but they may not be as breathable.

Stitching

The stitching on a down comforter serves a functional purpose, as well as adding design interest. There are several stitching types that are commonly used.

  • Baffle-Box: The top and bottom layers of the shell are connected with thinner strips of fabric to form a box shape that holds the down fill and helps it maintain its loft.
  • Sewn Through: The two layers of the shell are sewn together, forming box- or diamond-shaped pockets that keep the down fill evenly distributed.
  • Channels: Channels run up and down the comforter, forming long, vertical pockets for the down fill.
  • Gusset: A strip of fabric is sewn between the top and bottom of the comforter shell around the perimeter to give the comforter more shape and structure.

Frequently Asked Questions About Down Comforters

How much do down comforters cost?

Down comforters can be expensive, but there are a range of price-points available. Shoppers can expect to spend at least $150 on a down comforter that is made with high-quality construction and a higher fill power. Budget-friendly down comforters may include a percentage of feather fill for added structure and lower costs.

Price is not the only way to tell if a down comforter is high-quality, but certain types of down fill and shell materials will be more expensive. Shoppers should compare comforters to get an idea of different price-points and construction methods.

How do I clean a down comforter?

When cleaning a down comforter, it is crucial to follow the guidelines provided by the manufacturer. Some down comforters can be machine washed, while others require professional cleaning. When machine washing a down comforter, mild detergent and cold water is often recommended. The comforter should be air dried or tumble dried with low heat, and purchasers should make sure the comforter is completely dry before placing it back on the bed or storing it.
Use caution when dry cleaning a down comforter, as this cleaning process can strip the down clusters of natural oils and cause them to break down more quickly. A duvet cover helps protect the down comforter and extend the time needed between cleanings.

Where can I buy a down comforter?

Down comforters are popular and widely available, and they can be purchased online and in stores. Those who want to shop for a down comforter at a physical location can look at department stores and home goods retailers. Bedding and mattress companies that operate online tend to have down comforter options available, and some offer generous sleep trials or return policies that allow the purchaser to test out the comforters in their homes. When shopping online, customers should look for return policy requirements and warranty coverage.

How long do down comforters last?

Down comforters are durable and can last 10 to 15 years or longer with proper care and maintenance. Down is a natural material that needs to be fluffed regularly to maintain its loft and it should be carefully cleaned when needed. A duvet cover can extend the lifespan of a down comforter by preventing normal wear and tear.

Which size comforter is right for me?

When selecting a comforter size, shoppers should consider their mattress size and how much coverage they want. Down comforters are available in standard sizes that correspond to mattress sizes. Confirm the sizing and measurements provided by the manufacturer to ensure compatibility, as dimensions can vary slightly between brands. Some down comforters are oversized to hang more over the edges of the bed.

Is buying down ethical?

Down is an animal byproduct that can be sourced sustainably and ethically. Responsibly sourced down is harvested without causing undue harm. While there is a history of unethical treatment within the down industry, including live-plucking and force-feeding, there has been closer scrutiny that has led companies to seek out ethical suppliers. Shoppers can look for certain certifications, such as the Responsible Down Standard, that indicate a traceable supply chain and humane treatment of the ducks and geese from which the down is sourced.

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