By Savannah Sher | Published Jan 31, 2022 7:48 PM

BobVila.com and its partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links.

If down’s high price tag and potential for triggering allergies have you shopping for new bedding, a down alternative comforter might be your answer. Down alternative mimics the insulation and softness of down without the expense and potential for allergies. These comforters are also easier to care for and come in a wider range of colors and patterns.

The term “down alternative” encompasses several filling options, from microfiber to various types of wool. Before jumping into bed with a new comforter, consider the climate, the sleeping temperature you prefer, and the look and feel that best fit your style. The best down alternative comforter will do more than make your bed look cozy and inviting—it will turn the bedroom into a haven that’s hard to resist.

Down alternative comforters are made in different sizes, weights, and materials that affect their warmth, feel, and loft (or height). Everyone has their own preferences, so the right one for you depends on if you get warm when you sleep and the temperature in your bedroom. There are other factors to consider as well.

The best comforter will fit the size of your bed with a little room to spare. Down alternative comforters are made in standard bed sizes, including twin, full, queen, and king. Some comforters may also come in less common sizes like king XL, California king, full XL, and twin XL.

Most people buy a comforter that corresponds to their mattress size, which usually leaves enough comforter to cover a standard 12 to 16-inch mattress on top of a standard 8- to 10-inch foundation. However, if you have an extra-tall mattress or foundation, you may want to order a size up from your mattress to better cover the bed.

A variety of fill materials can be used as an alternative to down. Two of the most popular options are polyester and microfiber, as both emulate the properties of down while maintaining a good loft.

There are also several fill options made with natural and organic materials, including:

The best down comforters have a fill weight that corresponds with their warmth and loft. Higher fill weights indicate a warmer comforter, while lower fill weights offer a cooler option. Down alternative comforters are also available in different fill weights to meet different temperature and comfort needs.

Down alternative comforters include a fill weight measured in GSM, or grams per square meter. However, fill weight and warmth vary by the comforter’s material. Cotton, wool, polyester, and microfiber comforters with a fill weight of 300 to 600 GSM are typically suitable for all seasons. Higher GSMs work well for winter comforters, and lighter GSMs are a suitable choice for the best summer comforter.

The outer fabric or shell of the comforter is just as important as the filling. Cotton is one of the most popular shell materials because it wicks moisture and breathes well. The best down alternative comforter may have long-staple cotton, a cotton with long fibers that make it softer and more durable.

Other shell materials include microfiber, wool, and silk. Microfiber and silk are lightweight, though they have different textures. These two materials work well for cooler comforters. Wool is breathable and is an excellent insulator, making it a common shell material for winter comforters.

Also, keep an eye on the shell’s thread count, which tells you how many threads are in one square inch of material. Higher thread counts result in softer, more durable material. A thread count between 300 and 600 is more than enough for a durable comforter and may make it softer.

Construction features like stitching and corner loops make a difference in warmth and durability. Baffle box, squares, and gussets are construction features that help evenly distribute the comforter’s filling.

Baffle boxes have an additional layer of material between the shell layers to prevent bunching. Stitched squares, diamonds, and other patterns serve the same purpose. The filling may settle to one side of the box or the other, but it prevents it from pooling at the bottom of the comforter. Gussets are a border of material and filling that helps the rest of the comforter maintain its loft and shape.

Corner loops let you tie a duvet cover to the comforter, which can protect the comforter and make it easier to keep the comforter clean. Some comforters have loops in the corners only, while others have them in the corners and at the center of each side.

Read the comforter’s washing instructions carefully. Some comforters are machine washable, making them easy to maintain at home. Others, like silk and wool comforters, may be dry clean only.

Be sure to check whether the comforter can go in the dryer, and if it can, also note the proper temperature settings. Heat can damage many of the materials used in down alternative comforters. Even low heat can damage treatments on the fill or shrink the shell.

The best down alternative comforters contain high-quality filling and shell materials. The comforters and brands on our list balance performance with price. We’ve included comforters for different comfort levels as well as models to fit different design aesthetics.

Best Overall1 EASELAND All Season Down Alternative Comforter Photo: amazon.com Check Latest PriceThe EASELAND All Season Quilted Down Alternative Comforter is packed with whole-piece polyfill sandwiched between the durable brushed fabric. Brushed fabrics have shorter fabric fibers removed to create a smoother, softer surface. Whole-piece polyfill resists clumping, reducing the chances of cold spots developing while asleep. This comforter has four corner ties for use with a duvet cover. However, it’s also usable without a cover. It gets top marks for cleaning ease, as it’s machine washable in cold water. The EASELAND offers all-season warmth without adding too much weight to the bed. Because of its lightweight and whole-piece filling, this comforter isn’t as fluffy as some people like. Don’t expect a cloud-like appearance. Product SpecsFill material: PolyfillMachine washable: YesCorner ties: Yes ProsMachine washable with cold water and gentle cycleWhole-piece polyfill and box stitching resist pooling and bunchingCorner ties allow use with a duvet coverLightweight yet warm ConsNot fluffyMay be too warm for mild climates Get the EASELAND All Season Quilted Down Alternative Comforter on Amazon.Best Bang for the Buck2 Linenspa All-Season Down Alternative Comforter Photo: amazon.com Check Latest PriceThe Linenspa All-Season Down Alternative Quilted Comforter is filled with a polyester microfiber down alternative that’s 300 GSM. A box-stitch design keeps the filling in place, avoiding shifting and cold spots. Versatility is another bonus here, as this comforter is available in eight sizes and 13 color combinations, including solids, patterns, and reversible options. It also has eight loop ties to keep a duvet cover in place. Finally, the Linenspa comforter is machine washable in cold water on gentle with a tumble dry. However, it could take a few times through the dryer for larger sizes. The manufacturer also recommends against washing it in machines with an agitator. Product SpecsFill material: Polyester microfiberMachine washable: YesCorner ties: Yes Pros8 duvet tiesLots of color and pattern choicesGood all-season warmth for the price ConsNot recommended to wash in washing machines with an agitator Get the Linenspa All-Season Down Alternative Quilted Comforter on Amazon, at Walmart, or at Linenspa.Best for Hot Sleepers3 DOWNCOOL Goose Down Alternative Quilted Comforter Photo: amazon.com Check Latest PriceAlthough the DOWNCOOL Goose Down Alternative Quilted Comforter offers all-season warmth, it’s cooler than the competition, making it an excellent option for hot sleepers. They still get the comfort of a comforter, but breathability and the right balance of heat retention prevent too much heat buildup. A soft microfiber shell cuts down on noisy rustling during nighttime movement. The DOWNCOOL has 11 color options, including some that are reversible. While the comforter can be used on its own, corner ties let users change the look with a duvet cover. It’s also machine washable, but it should be hung to dry. Due to its light weight, this comforter has very little loft, making it our choice as the best comforter for hot sleepers. Expect it to be flatter than average. Product SpecsFill material: Polyester microfiberMachine washable: YesCorner ties: Yes ProsLightweight and breathable for warm sleepersCorner ties allow for use with a duvet coverMachine washable ConsLacks loft Get the DOWNCOOL Goose Down Alternative Quilted Comforter on Amazon.Best Lightweight4 HOMBYS Lightweight Cooling Viscose Comforter Photo: amazon.com Check Latest PriceTaking comfort to the next level is the HOMBYS Lightweight Cooling Viscose Comforter. Smooth viscose that feels cool to the touch combined with lightweight polyester filling result in a silky comforter that feels feather-light on the body while providing all-season warmth. The polyester fibers are designed with air pockets that enhance breathability. Eight corner and side ties help a duvet cover stay in place, allowing users to switch up the look if desired, although the HOMBYS comes in white, gray, or sage green for those who’d prefer to skip the cover. It also comes in six sizes, accommodating the most common bed sizes. This comforter has also received the OEKO-TEX Standard 100, certifying that the final product is free of harmful chemicals. While this comforter is machine washable, it doesn’t do well with frequent washing, which can cause pilling. Product SpecsFill material: PolyesterMachine washable: YesCorner ties: Yes ProsOEKO-TEX Standard 100 certification that it’s free of harmful chemicalsSilky viscose bamboo shellCorner ties for use with duvet coverLightweight, breathable polyester filling ConsPills with frequent washing Get the HOMBYS Lightweight Cooling Viscose Comforter on Amazon. Best Eco-Friendly5 Woolino Premium Australian Washable Wool Comforter Photo: amazon.com Check Latest PriceThe Woolino Premium Australian Washable Wool Comforter contains a natural 400 GSM wool filling covered in a 300 thread count cotton shell. The sateen cotton shell has a slight sheen and thicker weave than percale to add durability and softness. This comforter is also OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certified to be free of harmful substances. Wool can also absorb up to 30 percent of its own weight in moisture without becoming damp or wet, which helps this comforter keep sleepers insulated without overheating. The Woolino has corner ties, and the company recommends using a duvet comforter to protect the materials and prolong its lifespan. One downside is that the Woolino rustles loudly, which may disturb light sleepers. Product SpecsFill material: WoolMachine washable: YesCorner ties: Yes ProsWool filling naturally regulates the temperature and absorbs moistureBreathable shell and filling improve breathabilityOEKO-TEX Standard 100 certified free of harmful substances ConsCotton shell may be too noisy for some people Get the Woolino Premium Australian Washable Wool Comforter on Amazon.Best Reversible6 HIG 3pc Green Down Alternative Comforter Set Photo: amazon.com Check Latest PriceWith 11 reversible color options that include matching shams, the HIG 3-piece Green Down Alternative Comforter Set is a great choice for those who like to switch up their style. Box stitching keeps the polyester filling in place, while the microfiber shell offers ventilation without trapping too much heat. Siliconized fiberfill helps provide a down-like sleep experience, helping the comforter maintain its loft and shape. Designed for all-season use, this comforter’s light weight and breathability make it usable even in warmer climates. The HIG is machine washable on cold for easy maintenance, too. However, it comes in limited sizes, and some people find that the comforter is too small for a regular-size mattress, so consider sizing up if possible. Product SpecsFill material: Siliconized fiberfillMachine washable: YesCorner ties: Yes ProsBright color optionsSiliconized fiberfill resists bunching and maintains loftBox stitching keeps the filling in place for even warmthLightweight and breathable for all seasons ConsLimited sizesRuns smallThin sham fabric Get the HIG 3-piece Green Down Alternative Comforter Set on Amazon or at Walmart.Best Fleece-Lined7 Amazon Basics Ultra-Soft Micromink Sherpa Comforter Photo: amazon.com Check Latest PriceThe Amazon Basics Ultra-Soft Micromink Sherpa Comforter takes comfort to a new level with plush, soft micromink on one side and warm sherpa on the other. It’s a cozy style statement that offers 24 color and pattern options, and it includes two shams with the same materials. This comforter is reversible, so users can decide which inviting side suits their room best. Everything from the sherpa shell and micromink to the filling is polyester. The comforter is OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certified, as is the facility it’s made in, assuring that the product is free of harmful substances and that it’s made according to strict environmental safety standards. Though it feels luxurious, this comforter is machine washable. However, watch out for the shams, which occasionally arrive with some stitching issues. Also, this comforter only comes in three sizes—full/queen, twin, and king—so those with unconventional mattress sizes might need to look elsewhere. Product SpecsFill material: PolyesterMachine washable: YesCorner ties: No ProsMicromink feels soft and luxuriousReversible to fit different decor stylesEasy to wash and maintainOEKO-TEX Standard 100 certified ConsLimited sizesStitching issues with the shams Get the Amazon Basics Ultra-Soft Micromink Sherpa Comforter on Amazon.Bamboo down Alternative8 Cosy House Collection Luxury Bamboo Comforter Photo: amazon.com Check Latest PriceThe Cosy House Collection Luxury Bamboo Comforter’s shell contains a 60 percent bamboo-microfiber blend to bring bamboo’s natural temperature regulation and silky feel to the bed. Box stitching helps secure the warm polyester filling, while corner ties hold a duvet cover in place if you want to protect the comforter or change the design of the bed. This comforter combines a light weight with warmth, and it’s not ideal for people who easily overheat while they sleep. The polyester filling does an excellent job of insulating, yet the comforter feels thin. However, this model comes in a limited number of sizes. Some people find that those sizes don’t work well with their bed setup. For example, the queen/full size is great for a full mattress, but it only covers 2 or 3 inches down the sides of a queen. Product SpecsFill material: PolyesterMachine washable: YesCorner ties: Yes ProsThin but warm designFeel and temperature regulation of the bamboo fabric6 color options ConsTends to run small Get the Cosy House Collection Luxury Bamboo Comforter on Amazon or at Cosy House. Best Organic9 New York Mercado 100% Organic Cotton Comforter Photo: amazon.com Check Latest PriceThe New York Mercado 100% Organic Cotton Comforter is Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) certified, assuring that the cotton shell is organic. It’s filled with a 500 GSM hypoallergenic microfiber filling that mimics the loft and insulation of down. The shell is made of long-staple cotton for added durability and softness, and made even more luxurious thanks to its 800 thread count. Corner ties allow for easy use with a duvet cover. However, it comes in 13 colors and can be used without a cover as well. A medium weight makes it an all-season option as long as the climate isn’t extremely cold or warm. This comforter is available in twin, full/queen, king, and California king sizes, so it’s not ideal for those with unconventional bed sizes. Product SpecsFill material: MicrofiberMachine washable: YesCorner ties: Yes ProsHypoallergenic microfiberGOTS-certified organic shell500 GSM microfiber filling800 thread count shell ConsLimited sizes Get the New York Mercado 100% Organic Cotton Comforter on Amazon.Also Consider10 Utopia Bedding Down Alternative Comforter Photo: amazon.com Check Latest PriceThe Utopia Bedding Down Alternative Comforter has a siliconized fiberfill with a box-stitched microfiber shell. The silicone treatment helps maintain the shape of the polyester for better loft, heat distribution, and comfort, while the box stitching holds the filling in place. In addition to the seven color options in six sizes—twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, and California king—corner ties allow for easy use with a duvet cover for even more versatility. Piped edges strengthen the edges for enhanced durability. This comforter is machine washable, but it doesn’t hold up to frequent washing very well. Product SpecsFill material: Siliconized fiberfillMachine washable: YesCorner ties: Yes ProsSiliconized fiberfill holds its shape and maintains loftPiped edges resist wear and tearComes in 6 sizes and several colors ConsDoesn’t hold up to washing very well Get the Utopia Bedding Down Alternative Comforter on Amazon.

The EASELAND All Season Quilted Down Alternative Comforter is packed with whole-piece polyfill sandwiched between the durable brushed fabric. Brushed fabrics have shorter fabric fibers removed to create a smoother, softer surface. Whole-piece polyfill resists clumping, reducing the chances of cold spots developing while asleep.

This comforter has four corner ties for use with a duvet cover. However, it’s also usable without a cover. It gets top marks for cleaning ease, as it’s machine washable in cold water. The EASELAND offers all-season warmth without adding too much weight to the bed. Because of its lightweight and whole-piece filling, this comforter isn’t as fluffy as some people like. Don’t expect a cloud-like appearance.

Get the EASELAND All Season Quilted Down Alternative Comforter on Amazon.

The Linenspa All-Season Down Alternative Quilted Comforter is filled with a polyester microfiber down alternative that’s 300 GSM. A box-stitch design keeps the filling in place, avoiding shifting and cold spots. Versatility is another bonus here, as this comforter is available in eight sizes and 13 color combinations, including solids, patterns, and reversible options. It also has eight loop ties to keep a duvet cover in place.

Finally, the Linenspa comforter is machine washable in cold water on gentle with a tumble dry. However, it could take a few times through the dryer for larger sizes. The manufacturer also recommends against washing it in machines with an agitator.

Get the Linenspa All-Season Down Alternative Quilted Comforter on Amazon, at Walmart, or at Linenspa.

Although the DOWNCOOL Goose Down Alternative Quilted Comforter offers all-season warmth, it’s cooler than the competition, making it an excellent option for hot sleepers. They still get the comfort of a comforter, but breathability and the right balance of heat retention prevent too much heat buildup. A soft microfiber shell cuts down on noisy rustling during nighttime movement.

The DOWNCOOL has 11 color options, including some that are reversible. While the comforter can be used on its own, corner ties let users change the look with a duvet cover. It’s also machine washable, but it should be hung to dry. Due to its light weight, this comforter has very little loft, making it our choice as the best comforter for hot sleepers. Expect it to be flatter than average.

Get the DOWNCOOL Goose Down Alternative Quilted Comforter on Amazon.

Taking comfort to the next level is the HOMBYS Lightweight Cooling Viscose Comforter. Smooth viscose that feels cool to the touch combined with lightweight polyester filling result in a silky comforter that feels feather-light on the body while providing all-season warmth.

The polyester fibers are designed with air pockets that enhance breathability. Eight corner and side ties help a duvet cover stay in place, allowing users to switch up the look if desired, although the HOMBYS comes in white, gray, or sage green for those who’d prefer to skip the cover. It also comes in six sizes, accommodating the most common bed sizes. This comforter has also received the OEKO-TEX Standard 100, certifying that the final product is free of harmful chemicals.

While this comforter is machine washable, it doesn’t do well with frequent washing, which can cause pilling.

Get the HOMBYS Lightweight Cooling Viscose Comforter on Amazon.

The Woolino Premium Australian Washable Wool Comforter contains a natural 400 GSM wool filling covered in a 300 thread count cotton shell. The sateen cotton shell has a slight sheen and thicker weave than percale to add durability and softness. This comforter is also OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certified to be free of harmful substances.

Wool can also absorb up to 30 percent of its own weight in moisture without becoming damp or wet, which helps this comforter keep sleepers insulated without overheating. The Woolino has corner ties, and the company recommends using a duvet comforter to protect the materials and prolong its lifespan. One downside is that the Woolino rustles loudly, which may disturb light sleepers.

Get the Woolino Premium Australian Washable Wool Comforter on Amazon.

With 11 reversible color options that include matching shams, the HIG 3-piece Green Down Alternative Comforter Set is a great choice for those who like to switch up their style. Box stitching keeps the polyester filling in place, while the microfiber shell offers ventilation without trapping too much heat.

Siliconized fiberfill helps provide a down-like sleep experience, helping the comforter maintain its loft and shape. Designed for all-season use, this comforter’s light weight and breathability make it usable even in warmer climates. The HIG is machine washable on cold for easy maintenance, too. However, it comes in limited sizes, and some people find that the comforter is too small for a regular-size mattress, so consider sizing up if possible.

Get the HIG 3-piece Green Down Alternative Comforter Set on Amazon or at Walmart.

The Amazon Basics Ultra-Soft Micromink Sherpa Comforter takes comfort to a new level with plush, soft micromink on one side and warm sherpa on the other. It’s a cozy style statement that offers 24 color and pattern options, and it includes two shams with the same materials. This comforter is reversible, so users can decide which inviting side suits their room best.

Everything from the sherpa shell and micromink to the filling is polyester. The comforter is OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certified, as is the facility it’s made in, assuring that the product is free of harmful substances and that it’s made according to strict environmental safety standards.

Though it feels luxurious, this comforter is machine washable. However, watch out for the shams, which occasionally arrive with some stitching issues. Also, this comforter only comes in three sizes—full/queen, twin, and king—so those with unconventional mattress sizes might need to look elsewhere.

Get the Amazon Basics Ultra-Soft Micromink Sherpa Comforter on Amazon.

The Cosy House Collection Luxury Bamboo Comforter’s shell contains a 60 percent bamboo-microfiber blend to bring bamboo’s natural temperature regulation and silky feel to the bed. Box stitching helps secure the warm polyester filling, while corner ties hold a duvet cover in place if you want to protect the comforter or change the design of the bed.

This comforter combines a light weight with warmth, and it’s not ideal for people who easily overheat while they sleep. The polyester filling does an excellent job of insulating, yet the comforter feels thin. However, this model comes in a limited number of sizes. Some people find that those sizes don’t work well with their bed setup. For example, the queen/full size is great for a full mattress, but it only covers 2 or 3 inches down the sides of a queen.

Get the Cosy House Collection Luxury Bamboo Comforter on Amazon or at Cosy House.

The New York Mercado 100% Organic Cotton Comforter is Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) certified, assuring that the cotton shell is organic. It’s filled with a 500 GSM hypoallergenic microfiber filling that mimics the loft and insulation of down. The shell is made of long-staple cotton for added durability and softness, and made even more luxurious thanks to its 800 thread count.

Corner ties allow for easy use with a duvet cover. However, it comes in 13 colors and can be used without a cover as well. A medium weight makes it an all-season option as long as the climate isn’t extremely cold or warm. This comforter is available in twin, full/queen, king, and California king sizes, so it’s not ideal for those with unconventional bed sizes.

Get the New York Mercado 100% Organic Cotton Comforter on Amazon.

The Utopia Bedding Down Alternative Comforter has a siliconized fiberfill with a box-stitched microfiber shell. The silicone treatment helps maintain the shape of the polyester for better loft, heat distribution, and comfort, while the box stitching holds the filling in place.

In addition to the seven color options in six sizes—twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, and California king—corner ties allow for easy use with a duvet cover for even more versatility. Piped edges strengthen the edges for enhanced durability. This comforter is machine washable, but it doesn’t hold up to frequent washing very well.

Get the Utopia Bedding Down Alternative Comforter on Amazon.

The EASELAND All Season Comforter balances quality in the construction and materials with the price. Comfort, temperature regulation, and durability make it one of the best options on the market. However, the Linenspa All-Season Comforter also offers an excellent option with its 13 color choices, eight ties, and balance of warmth and affordability.

We chose the best down alternative comforters based on a number of factors, including the fill material, shell material, size options, color options, and material and construction quality.

The comforter that’s best for one bed may not be the best for another. The person who will use the bed, their design and decor preferences, and how cool or hot they sleep play a big role in comforter choice. If you’ve got lingering questions floating around, we’ve got more answers.

Down is a type of feather that’s harvested from geese or ducks. These fine feathers come from the birds’ undercoat and are hollow, trapping air to provide warming insulation. Down alternatives mimic the feel and performance of down but with non-down materials, like cotton, wool, or microfiber.

Between 300 and 600 grams per square meter (GSM) works well as an all-season comforter. However, many brands don’t list the GSM of their comforters. Look for labels like lightweight, summer, and all-season to determine how warm the comforter will be.

The best materials for a down alternative comforter depend on the climate and sleeper preferences. Polyester and microfiber are good fill choices because they mimic the feel and insulation of down while still having a good loft. Cotton or bamboo shells offer breathability with a nice feel.

GSM stands for grams per square meter. Higher weights are appropriate for warmer comforters. Lower weights insulate less and are therefore better for warmer climates.

Heavyweight and winter down alternative comforters can be hot. They’re designed with the most insulation to contain more heat. If you sleep warm, look for a lightweight comforter with minimal insulation and a breathable shell.

Always read the manufacturer’s instructions. Some comforters are machine washable in cold water and can be tumble dried on low. However, queen and king size comforters may only fit inside a commercial machine.

Disclosure: BobVila.com participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for publishers to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

You agree that BobVila.com may process your data in the manner described by our Privacy Policy.

Copyright © 2022 Acton Media Inc. All rights reserved.