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While down comforters are popular, they are not the right choice for everyone. Down alternative comforters offer shoppers a hypoallergenic option, with many of the same benefits of down comforters. Down alternative is designed to mimic the feel of down without the high price-point or use of animal products.
As down alternative is a term that covers a variety of fills, with plenty of options on the market today, it is easy for shoppers to be confused. The materials and construction methods used affect how warm and durable a down alternative comforter will be. Before making a purchase, shoppers will want to consider their bedroom environment, climate, and other preferences.
We’ll review our top picks for the best down alternative comforters, based on extensive product testing, research, and verified customer feedback. We’ll also break down the key considerations for shoppers to help them pick the best comforter.
Best Overall
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The Brooklinen Down Alternative Comforter is one of our top picks thanks in part to its design selection. You can choose from three different weights based on your personal warmth and cooling preferences, as well as the local climate where you live.
The lightweight option is best suited to hot sleepers and warmer weather, while the ultra-warm comforter provides more insulation for people who tend to sleep cold. The all-season option offers a balance of the other two weights, making it suitable for any time of the year.
The comforter is filled with shaved down alternative fibers that mimic the softness and loftiness of authentic down. The shell is composed of long-staple cotton sateen with an exceptionally smooth hand-feel ideal for people with sensitive skin.
The baffle boxes are sewn through to contain the fibers and minimize shifting or clumping, while thick piping around the edges prevents fill from escaping. Each corner is equipped with a corner loop to keep the comforter in place when a duvet cover is used.
Brooklinen recommends spot cleaning the comforter with soft soap if mild stains occur. You should dry clean the comforter if it is heavily soiled. Three sizes are available: twin/twin XL, full/queen, and king/California king.
All U.S. orders qualify for free ground shipping. Brooklinen allows you to return the comforter within 365 days of the original order, even if you’ve slept on it or cleaned it.
Best Value
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The Linens & Hutch Down Alternative Comforter is competitively priced with a durable construction, making it a great choice for value-minded shoppers. The soft, smooth feel of the comforter is suitable for year-round use.
The woven double-brushed microfiber shell prevents fill from escaping while feeling soft and cozy for sleepers. The micro-down fiber alternative fill is lightweight and warm, imitating the feel of natural down. The Linens & Hutch Down Alternative Comforter is hypoallergenic.
Like many down comforters, the Linens & Hutch Down Alternative Comforter makes use of baffle-box stitching to keep the fill evenly distributed while maximizing the loft of the comforter. As a result, the comforter retains its shape without the need for regular fluffing.
Purchasers can machine wash the comforter in cold water and tumble it dry with low heat, and the comforter shell resists fading over time. The Linens & Hutch comforter is available in multiple colors, and purchasers can use it on its own or as a duvet insert.
Linens & Hutch offers a 101-night return policy with a 100 percent money-back guarantee. The company has high ratings for customer service.
Best All-Season
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The Tuft & Needle Down Alternative Duvet Insert is offered in two weights, light and medium, to suit a variety of needs and preferences. Hot sleepers and those who live in warmer climates may prefer the light option, while those who want a higher loft and cozier feel should opt for the medium weight.
The 100 percent cambric cotton shell features a close weave with a light handfeel. The breathable shell wicks away moisture and adds airflow throughout the comforter. The light T&N Down Alternative Duvet Insert has a sewn-through construction that keeps the fill evenly distributed. The medium option uses a baffle-box construction for added loft and warmth.
The high-quality microfiber polyester fill resists clumping and flattening. The duvet insert is OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certified, meaning it is free of harmful chemicals.
The T&N Down Alternative Duvet Insert has corner duvet loops and can be paired with a cover for easy care. When needed, the duvet insert can be washed with cold water and mild detergent and tumbled dry with low heat.
Shoppers can choose between twin/twin XL, full/queen, and king/California king sizes, with one color option of white. The duvet insert is oversized to give additional coverage, which is beneficial for couples.
Tuft & Needle offers a 100-night sleep trial for purchasers and covers the Down Alternative Duvet Insert with a 2-year limited warranty.
Best Luxury
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The Kassatex Luxury Down Alternative Comforter is a luxurious option, with a warm and lofty feel that closely resembles that of a goose down comforter.
The 400 thread count cotton shell has a crisp weave that prevents any fill from escaping, while wicking away moisture and increasing airflow throughout the comforter. The 3D construction of the baffle-box stitching helps the comforter maintain its high loft and even distribution of fill.
Kassatex uses a unique goose down alternative fill for added warmth and insulation. Shoppers can choose between light or all season weights. The light option is best for hot sleepers and summer months, while the all season is suitable for year-round use. The comforter is hypoallergenic.
Duvet loops allow the Kassatex Luxury Down Alternative Comforter to be used with a duvet cover, which can protect it from normal wear and tear or stains. That said, the Kassatex comforter is relatively easy to clean. It can be machine washed on the delicate cycle, with an extra rinse cycle to remove any detergent residue. It can then be tumble dried with low heat and clean tennis balls to fluff the down alternative fill.
The Kassatex Luxury Down Alternative Comforter is produced in twin, queen, and king sizes. Kassatex offers a 60-day return policy.
Most Comfortable
The Buffy Cloud Comforter is designed to feel lightweight and airy. Sleepers who want a soft down alternative comforter with a lofty feel will likely appreciate the Cloud’s fill, which is made from recycled PET plastic bottles. After processing, the fiber is air-blown and layered, which creates a lightweight blanket that’s suitable for all seasons.
Triangle stitching keeps the fill in place and helps prevent significant bunching. The 100% recycled fill is encased in a 300 thread count lyocell cover. Lyocell, a fabric derived from eucalyptus wood pulp, is known for its silky feel and durability. In order to maintain the comforter’s lifespan, sleepers should protect it with a duvet cover and avoid machine washing. Dry cleaning is recommended for the best results.
In addition to sourcing recycled materials, Buffy uses sustainable practices like offsetting CO2 emissions and harvesting its eucalyptus from regenerative forests. The Cloud Comforter is designed to resist mildew, mold, and dust mites, and is available in three sizes.
The comforter’s price-point is on par with other down alternative options. The Buffy Cloud comes with a free 7-day trial, and is backed by a 30-day return period and free returns. Buffy ships the Cloud Comforter for free to all 50 states.
Best Cooling
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Pacific Coast was founded in 1884 with a focus on down comforters and other down bedding. The Restful Nights Down Alternative Comforter shares a similar feel and construction with the brand’s traditional down bedding, but with fiberfill instead of down. This results in a lightweight and lofty comforter that performs well year-round.
Pacific Coast’s Grand Loft European fiberfill is a down alternative that resists clumping or flattening over time. The fiberfill is lightweight and designed to regulate temperature in a wide variety of conditions, making it suitable for all seasons.
The Restful Nights Down Alternative Comforter has a soft, 100% cotton cover with a 500 thread count. The cover works with the fiberfill to increase breathability and help prevent overheating. Baffle box stitching is designed to keep the fill in place, while helping the comforter maintain its loft. The comforter can be used with a duvet cover, as it includes duvet loops at the corners.
The Pacific Coast Restful Nights Down Alternative Comforter is available in twin, full/queen, and king sizes, and it can be machine washed and tumble dried. Pacific Coast offers free shipping within the contiguous U.S. The comforter also comes with a 30-night sleep trial, and is backed by a 3-year limited warranty.
We’ll break down common types of down alternative comforters later on, but in general, shoppers should expect the comforter to be filled with synthetic fibers that mimic natural down in weight, warmth, and feel. Natural down is the plumage found under the feathers of ducks and geese, and it is commonly used to fill comforters. Down alternative comforters offer shoppers who have down allergies or vegan lifestyles another option for insulating bedding. Down alternative comforters tend to be more affordable than down comforters, and are easier to maintain.
When shopping for bedding, shoppers may notice the terms comforter and duvet used somewhat interchangeably. Typically, a comforter is designed to be used as a single piece of bedding, while a duvet consists of a duvet insert and a duvet cover. This can make a difference when it comes to care and longevity, as a duvet cover protects the insert and is easier to wash regularly.
Since a down alternative comforter can last for many years, providing warmth and comfort throughout the seasons, it is important to choose wisely. The construction methods and materials used can determine how durable the down alternative comforter is. The type of fill is also important to keep in mind, as this can affect temperature regulation and price. We’ll break down the most important considerations for shoppers here.
Down alternative comforters often appeal to shoppers who want a soft, fluffy comforter that is easy to maintain. The versatility of down alternative fill results in a variety of options for shoppers, with options ranging from lightweight to heavy, in order to suit different sleepers and climates. This type of comforter is also typically hypoallergenic.
In order to select the best down alternative comforter, there are several factors that stand out. It is easy to be distracted or overwhelmed by the sometimes misleading terms that bedding companies use, and we urge shoppers to focus on the following elements instead.
Depending on the individual, some of these factors will matter more than others, but understanding them allows shoppers to set priorities and expectations before making a purchase.
Quality Materials
The quality of materials used often matters the most when it comes to durability and comfort. High-quality down alternative fill will resist clumping and provide consistent warmth for sleepers. It should also hold up with regular use and cleaning. In addition to the quality of fill, shoppers should consider the shell and construction. Certain shell materials, like cotton, can be more breathable and long-lasting. Stitching that keeps the fill evenly distributed can prevent it from shifting or becoming lumpy.
Size
Down alternative comforters come in a range of sizes, correlating to mattress sizes. Some may be oversized for additional coverage, so shoppers should check the measurements provided by the manufacturer. Those who want to pair the comforter with a duvet cover will also want to confirm the measurements of both for compatibility.
Weight
Like down comforters, down alternative comforters can range in weight from light to heavy. Lighter comforters are more suitable for hot sleepers or summer months, while medium weight comforters can often be used in all seasons. Those who want additional warmth should look for heavier comforters. The weight of a comforter can be measured in ounces or in grams per square meter.
Design
A comforter is designed to be used on its own, and many down alternative comforters come in a variety of colors or patterns. Additionally, the stitching used to keep the down alternative fill evenly distributed creates a design pattern. Common patterns include box stitching, diamond shapes, or channels. Duvet inserts are often simple in design, as they are used with a duvet cover.
Price
Down alternative comforters are often more affordable than down comforters. Budget-friendly options can cost below $50, while luxury comforters tend to cost $200 or more. Setting a budget beforehand can help shoppers narrow down the selection.
Temperature Regulation
A down alternative comforter can help regulate temperature, depending on the weight and materials used. Heavier comforters and polyester-filled ones are often warmer, while materials like cotton and silk are less insulating. While many down alternative comforters are designed to provide warmth, others are lightweight and breathable.
There are plenty of benefits to using a down alternative comforter, but shoppers will also want to keep in mind some of the potential drawbacks. One of the most appealing aspects of a down alternative comforter, especially when compared to a down comforter, is its more affordable price-point. On the other hand, down alternative can be less durable than natural down.
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There are several types of down alternative comforters available, differentiated by the type of fill and shell materials used. While shoppers should focus first and foremost on the quality of materials, certain materials are considered higher-quality and used more frequently in luxury bedding.
Synthetic Fill Types
Polyester: Polyester is frequently used to create down alternative fill, since it is a versatile fiber that can be manufactured to closely resemble natural down. Polyester is a synthetic fiber that can retain heat and provide insulation for sleepers. There are different types used, including gel-infused polyester, which helps regulate temperature, and siliconized polyester, which resists allergens and bacteria. Some polyester is made from recycled plastic bottles.
Microfiber: Microfiber is a lightweight synthetic fiber. The fibers are soft and thin, which helps to mimic the feel of natural down. The softness of microfiber makes it a common choice for lightweight and all-season comforters.
PrimaLoft: PrimaLoft is an insulating synthetic poly fiber that is treated to be moisture-wicking. The fibers have small air pockets that help trap heat and provide warmth, which is similar to how down clusters are constructed.
Natural Fill Types
In addition to the synthetic materials listed above, comforters can also be filled with the following natural materials.
Shell Materials
Stitching
How much do down alternative comforters cost?
Down alternative comforters are available at nearly every price-point, with budget options below $50 and luxury options above $200. The price is often determined by the materials, construction, quality, and brand. Keep in mind that higher-quality down alternative comforters may be more expensive, but should last longer.
How do I clean a down alternative comforter?
Check the comforter tags and manufacturer’s guidelines to ensure your down alternative comforter is cleaned properly. Many down alternative comforters are machine washable, while others must be hand-washed or professionally cleaned. Using the comforter as a duvet insert with a duvet cover can protect it from stains and spills, and duvet covers are often easier to wash regularly.
Where can I buy a down alternative comforter?
Down alternative comforters are widely available, with options online and in-stores. Shoppers can find down alternative comforters at bedding and mattress stores, department stores, and home goods retailers.
When shopping online, shoppers should read the shipping and return policies. Some online companies offer sleep trials, while others only accept returns of unused bedding.
How long do down alternative comforters last?
A high-quality down alternative comforter should last for several years or longer. While down alternative fill may not be as durable as down, high-quality down alternative will still retain its shape and loft with proper care. Low-quality down alternative fill is less durable, and may be prone to clumping or flattening over time.
Which size comforter is right for me?
Comforter sizes correlate with mattress sizes, and shoppers should select the right size for their mattress. Those who want additional coverage can opt for an oversized comforter. Though sizing is standardized to a certain extent, there will be variation between manufacturers. Dimensions are typically listed on the product page online or on the packaging.
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