Last Updated: January 2020
Down is a super soft and naturally insulating material, which is why it is one of the preferred fillers for comforters. However, down isn’t for everyone; some people are allergic to the material, and others just don’t want to pay the high prices that are often associated with down filled comforters. In our guide, we are going to find and recommend only the best down alternative comforters so please continue reading.
If you love the look and feel of down, you don’t have to skip out on the luxury that it provides because you are allergic or don’t feel like shelling out big bucks; instead, you can purchase a down alternative comforter. Down alternative is made from synthetic (manmade) materials that are meant to imitate the look and feel that natural down feathers create. Plus, down alternative comforters are easier to clean than the real deal, which is another major perk. There are plenty of options down alternative options available that offer the same warmth, softness, coziness and extravagant look that natural down creates, which means that you will be able to have your cake and eat it, too!
When you start shopping for a down alternative comforter, it’s easy to quickly become overwhelmed. There are so many options available, which can make it difficult to determine what option to choose to best suit your needs. To help you on your quest for finding the best down alternative comforter, we have put together this handy buyer’s guide. In this guide, we have compiled the most important information that will help you find the best down alternative comforter, as well as our top picks for the best options that are currently available on the market.
Best Down Alternative Comforters
After testing dozens of down alternative comforters, we have determined that the following options are the best options that are currently available.
*5 Star Rating: this is based on the percentage of consumers who rate the comforters 10/10.
#1 Linenspa White Goose Down Alternative Comforter
Made with a microfiber fill of blended polyester, this comforter delivers a cozy, warm and plush feeling that is remarkably similar to down. The cover is also made of microfiber, which adds to the softness of the comforter. Completely hypoallergenic, designed to avoid shifting of the filling and machine washable and dryable, this is a great down alternative comforter.
Our Score
Below is our final score of the Linenspa comforter based on multiple criteria that we use when testing all of our mattresses.
Chezmoi Collection Down Alternative Comforter
Filled with a poly fiber fill that feels just like good down, this comforter is luxurious, soft and warm. The cover is made of a polyester blend that is delicately spun to create a silky feeling. The box stitching prevents the filling from shifting, and all materials are hypoallergenic. This comforter is also machine washable.
Our Score
Below is our final score of the Chezmoi Collection Comforter based on multiple criteria that we use when testing all of our mattresses.
Utopia Bedding Quilted Down Alternative Comforter
This fiberfill down alternative comforter offers a delightfully lightweight, plush and luxurious sleeping experience. The polyester blended cover is specially designed to imitate the feel of silk, yet it is much more durable and nowhere near as delicate. Box stitching ensures the fill won’t shift and gives this comforter a clean, modern look. Again, all materials are 100 percent hypoallergenic and the comforter is machine washable and can be tumble dried on a low setting.
Our Score
Below is our final score of the Utopia Bedding Comforter based on multiple criteria that we use when testing all of our mattresses.
Royal Hotel Goose Down Alternative Comforter
The 300 thread count 100 percent cotton cover of this comforter is filled with the highest quality poly fiber blend down alternative fill, creating a luxurious comforter that is truly luxurious. The baffle wall box design adds an elegant look while ensuring the fill will not shift. All materials used in the construction of this comforter are 100 percent hypoallergenic. The comforter is also machine washable for easy, worry free care.
Our Score
Below is our final score of the Royal Hotel Comforter based on multiple criteria that we use when testing all of our mattresses.
Sleep Restoration Down Alternative Comforter
With a unique diamond shaped block design on the cover and a variety of color options, this comforter can be used sans duvet cover and creates a truly striking look. Filled with a blend of the highest quality poly fiber fill, you will feel comfortable and cozy all year long when you use this comforter. Machine washable and 100 percent hypoallergenic, this comforter is sure to make an impact in your bedroom.
Our Score
Below is our final score of the Sleep Restoration Comforter based on multiple criteria that we use when testing all of our mattresses.
Factors to Consider
There are several factors that you are going to want to keep in mind when you are shopping for a down alternative comforter. By taking these factors into consideration, you will be able to find the best down alternative comforter to suit your specific needs.
The Down Alternative Fill
As mentioned above, down alternative comforters replace natural duck or goose down with synthetic materials. These materials are intended to deliver the same feeling and warmth that natural down creates, but they are hypoallergenic and far more affordable.
With that said, there are several materials that are used as an alternative to down, including:
- Synthetic polyester fiber – This is a broad name for a variety of types of manmade materials that are used as a substitute to down. Generally, a blend of rayon and polyester is used to create the down alternative, though other materials may also be included in the blend, such as cotton. These materials are woven in a special way to give them a light, fluffy feeling that truly does mimic the feeling of natural down feathers.
- Gel fiber – Gel fibers can also be used as an alternative to down. These fibers are also constructed in a way that gives them a very lightweight, soft, plush and cushy feeling, much like natural down. It is also very breathable, which makes it even more like natural down feathers.
- Natural fill – If would prefer to ditch the synthetic route and would prefer a natural option, you will be happy to know that there are down alternative options that are made out of natural materials. Some of the most popular natural down alternative options include bamboo, silk and the hull of buckwheat. Again, these natural materials are crafted in such a way that the replicate the look and feeling of natural down feathers.
Generally speaking, the synthetic polyester fill is the least expensive down alternative material; however, it may not breathe as well as gel fiber or natural fill, and it also may not be as durable.
The Fabric of the Cover
Another factor that you are going to want to take into consideration when choosing a down alternative comforter is the fabric that is used for the cover. The type of fabric used for the cover will directly impact the look and feel of the comforter. There are several options available, but the most commonly used cover materials include:
- Sateen – Usually made of cotton, sateen offers a low luster look that is soft and smooth. It almost resembles satin, but it isn’t quite as shiny.
- Batiste – This material is often made of cotton or cotton blended with another material, such as polyester. Batiste is famous for being lightweight and soft. The weave of this fabric is very gentle and has an understated, yet elegant look.
- Damask – Damask is also often made of cotton or a blend of cotton and other materials, such as polyester. Contrasting textures are used to create the fabric, which makes subtle design elements, such as strips or checkers, and adds a gloss to the finish of the fabric.
- Cambric – Made of linen, cambric is very delicate and extremely lightweight. As such, this material is soft and cool; however, on the downside, it does tend to wrinkle easily.
The Thread Count of the Cover
You should also consider the thread count of the cover. The higher the thread count, the softer the cover will be, and the more durable it will be; however, it is usually more expensive. Nevertheless, investing in a higher thread count is recommended, as it will last longer. We recommend a thread count no lower than 200.