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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.
The Linens & Hutch Down Alternative Comforter has a hypoallergenic construction and is available in six colors.
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.
The Mezzati Goose Down Alternative Comforter is constructed with siliconized fiberfill to maintain its loft and resist allergens.
Value-minded shoppers will likely appreciate the affordable price-point and 30-day money-back guarantee of the Mezzati Goose Down Alternative Comforter. Regular sales and promotions further discount the comforter, which has a durable construction and soft feel.
The brushed microfiber shell of the comforter resists wrinkles and is easy to maintain. The quilted box stitch construction helps keep fill in place while maintaining the loft of the comforter, though shoppers should allow 24 hours after unboxing for the comforter to fully expand.
Siliconized fiberfill resists common allergens while mimicking the look and feel of natural goose down, which typically forms in larger clusters and provides additional warmth. The Mezzati comforter has a weight of 350 GSM (grams per square meter), which is a medium weight that is ideal for moderate climates.
The Mezzati Goose Down Comforter can be machine washed in cold water and tumble dried with low heat. It can be used on its own as a comforter or paired with a duvet cover as an insert. Shoppers have their choice of full/queen and king/California king sizes, and the comforter is only produced in white.
The Kassatex Luxury Down Alternative Comforter has a crisp cotton shell and two weight options for shoppers to choose from.
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.
The Utopia Bedding Down Alternative Comforter is competitively priced and can be used year-round.
The Utopia Bedding Down Alternative Comforter is a solid choice for shoppers looking for an all-season down comforter, as it has a breathable construction that keeps sleepers cool with enough weight to provide warmth when needed.
The brushed microfiber yarn shell is durable and breathable, allowing air to flow throughout the comforter while keeping the fill from escaping. It also resists wrinkles for a smooth look. Box style stitching helps keep the down alternative fill evenly distributed for consistent warmth.
The plush siliconized fiberfill adds softness and warmth to the comforter for a cozy feel. Shoppers can choose between grey, navy, and white. The twin size comes with one matching pillow sham, while the queen and king sizes include two matching pillow shams.
The Utopia Bedding Down Alternative Comforter requires additional care, as it should be hand washed with cold water and mild detergent. Machine washing can damage the comforter, and purchasers should use caution when cleaning it.
Utopia Bedding has a 30-day return policy, and only accepts returns of unused and unopened bedding. The customer is responsible for any shipping charges.
The Tuft & Needle Down Alternative Duvet Insert stands out with two weight options, a 100-night sleep trial, and a 2-year limited warranty.
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.
The Sweet Home Collection All Season Down Alternative Comforter has a lightweight construction and multiple color options.
The lightweight feel of the Sweet Home Collection All Season Down Alternative Comforter is suitable for warm climates. With an affordable price-point and durable construction, the Sweet Home Collection comforter is also a great pick for value-minded shoppers.
The brushed microfiber shell is tightly woven to prevent any down alternative fill from escaping, but it is still breathable and lightweight. Box stitching helps keep the fill evenly distributed, preventing any clumping or bare spots.
The Sweet Home Collection Down Alternative Comforter is filled with hypoallergenic polyfiber, a goose down alternative that helps regulate temperature for year-round use. The comforter resists common allergens like dust mites to keep sleepers comfortable.
Purchasers can machine wash the Sweet Home Collection All Season Down Alternative Comforter with cold water, and tumble dry with low heat or air dry. There are more than 10 colors to choose from, including neutral and bold options. The comforter is produced in twin, full, queen, and king sizes.
Sweet Home Collection offers a 90-day return policy for new and unopened bedding. The All Season Down Alternative Comforter is covered by a lifetime warranty.
A down alternative comforter is bedding that is used to add warmth. This type of thick, fluffy blanket has a fabric shell with a down alternative fill, but there are many different options on the market.
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.
