Best Comforters of 2023 | Sleep Foundation (2023)

A comforter is a fluffy blanket that rests on top of your bed and covers the mattress. Unlike a traditional blanket that has one layer, a comforter for a bed features a fabric shell filled with another material like down to help keep you at a comfortable temperature. If you are giving your bedroom a makeover, a new comforter can be a stylish and functional addition to your bed.

Comforters vary greatly in design and price, and they can be made with a variety of different materials like down, polyester, or eucalyptus, which all perform differently. Shoppers should keep their bedroom environment in mind when selecting a comforter, as room temperature, climate, and personal preferences will determine which comforter is the best fit. Also, while a comforter may seem like an expensive investment, many are designed to last for a long time.

We’ll cover our top picks for the best comforters, including down and down alternative options. By breaking down the construction and performance of the best comforters on the market, we’ll help shoppers know what to look for when purchasing a comforter. Lastly, we’ll talk about the pros and cons of using a comforter, how it differs from a duvet, and how to maintain a comforter’s plush, lofty feel.

Best Comforters Video

In the video below, our product experts gets hands-on with comforters, offering a close-up look at the design, feel, and performance of some of our top picks.

Product Details

Many comforters provide cozy insulation from the cold, while some sleep cool and wick moisture away from your body. With the Luxome ClimaSense Comforter, you get the best of both worlds. The comforter’s fill consists of a proprietary poly-fill blend designed to maintain a comfortable temperature any time of year by reducing humidity on hot nights, and storing heat during chillier times of the year.

Sewn-through baffle boxes distribute the fibers evenly, so you shouldn’t need to fluff the comforter too often. Thick piping lines the perimeter to prevent rips and tears. Full/queen and king/California king sizes are available, both of which are oversize to ensure maximum coverage for you and your sleep partner — even if you use a high-profile mattress.

A smooth, breathable cover made of cotton and polyester encases the fill. The fabric blend glides gently to soothe sensitive skin. The comforter is too large for most washing machines and laundering can cause its structure to break down over time, so Luxome recommends you spot clean the shell if stains occur. You can also arrange for the comforter to be dry cleaned.

Luxome offers free ground shipping throughout the contiguous U.S. For a small upcharge, you can also opt for same-day shipping. Each order includes a 30-night trial period.

You can find plenty of comforters on the market with low price-points, but affordability doesn’t always translate to quality. With the Silk & Snow Down Alternative Duvet Insert, you get the best of both worlds: a cozy, well-made comforter that won’t break the bank. You can even add a matching duvet cover to your purchase and the total cost will still be relatively accessible.

The animal-free fill consists of down alternative clusters meant to mimic the softness and lightness of real down. This material is especially helpful if you’re allergic to real down. A smooth cotton shell encases the insert, and the fabric is quilted with sewn-through baffle boxes to evenly distribute the fill and minimize the need for fluffing. A loop at each corner helps secure the insert to a duvet cover.

You can choose from three weights, each of which is best suited to certain climates and times of year. The lightweight design contains 175 grams per square meter (GSM) of fill, ensuring moderate coverage and good temperature control for exceptionally hot or humid nights. If your local area is prone to colder weather, we recommend the heavyweight design with a GSM of 500. The all-season insert with a GSM of 375 is the best option for temperate places with relatively mild winters and summers.

The insert is technically machine-washable, but it may be too large for washers with agitators and other appliances. Dry cleaning can also be costly, so we recommend using a duvet cover with your insert. Twin/twin XL, full/queen, and king/California king sizes are available. All are oversized to provide plenty of coverage for you and your partner.

Silk & Snow offers free ground shipping throughout the contiguous U.S. and provincial Canada. You’ll receive a sleep trial with your purchase that runs 100 nights in length. If you decide to keep the Down Alternative Duvet Insert, it’s further backed by a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty.

Saatva’s reputation for high-end sleep products extends well beyond the company’s mattress line. Take the All-Year Down Alternative Comforter, which is constructed with plush lyocell fibers encased within a smooth shell made of cotton percale. Lyocell mimics the lightness and softness of real down without attracting dust and triggering allergies, and the material is animal-free. The fibers also have moisture-wicking properties to help you stay dry during hotter and more humid times of the year without sacrificing warmth or insulation when temperatures drop.

The cotton is a long-staple variety, ensuring good durability and resistance to wear and tear. Box quilting with sewn-through baffles helps evenly distribute the fibers, so the comforter shouldn’t shift or clump to one side. Corner loops allow you to secure the comforter to a duvet cover for added shape retention. We recommend using a cover, as the comforter may be too large for your household washer and dryer. If your machines can accommodate it, you may wash in cold water with like colors, then tumble dry on low heat.

Twin/twin XL, full/queen, and king/California king sizes are available. All options are oversized to provide plenty of coverage, and the two largest options should be suitable for you and a sleep partner. Saatva offers free ground shipping within the contiguous U.S. You may return the All-Season Down Alternative Comforter within 45 days of the delivery date. If you decide to keep the comforter, it’s further backed by a 1-year warranty against material defects.

The Brooklinen Down Comforter is available in three weight options — lightweight, all-season, and ultra-warm — to meet different needs and preferences. The 100 percent cotton sateen shell is light and breathable, so air can flow throughout the comforter. This helps regulate temperature and prevents overheating, even with the insulating down fill.

The down cluster fill varies depending on the weight option and is ethically sourced from Hutterite Farms in Canada, as well as from Europe. The all-season option uses 700 fill power down, while the lightweight option is constructed with 650 fill power down. The ultra-warm is made using 750 fill power down. The baffle box construction helps keep the down fill from shifting or clumping. There are corner loops sewn on, so the Brooklinen Down Comforter can be used with a duvet cover to protect the comforter and extend the time between cleanings.

When needed, the comforter can be aired out in the sun or air fluffed in the dryer on low heat. It can be spot cleaned as needed, or dry cleaned in the event of large stains. That said, dry cleaning can cause the down clusters to break down over time, so this option should be used sparingly. The Brooklinen Down Comforter is treated with antimicrobials to help reduce the amount of washing needed.

Shoppers can choose between twin/twin xl, full/queen, and king/California king sizes. The comforter is only available in white. Brooklinen offers a generous 365-day return policy, in addition to a quality guarantee and lifetime warranty.

The Layla Down Alternative Comforter is a lightweight comforter that is composed of soft, breathable cotton and down alternative fill. While the fill is designed to mimic the fluffiness of down, the cotton construction allows for ample airflow that keeps the comforter cool year-round.

Made with a proprietary Cluster-Loft down alternative fill, the Layla comforter has a fluffy feel that remains lofty throughout the night. While most comforters use square baffle boxes to distribute the fill, the Layla Down Alternative Comforter uses a hexagon shape to prevent fill from becoming trapped or bunched in the corners.

All of the materials in the Layla Down Alternative Comforter are OEKO-TEX certified, meaning they are free from harmful substances that could impede healthy rest. The comforter is available in three different sizes that are able to fit beds ranging from a twin to a California king. Layla recommends machine-washing the comforter on a cold setting and tumble-drying on low heat for easy care.

Layla offers free shipping to addresses in the contiguous United States. Each Down Alternative Comforter is backed by a 5-year warranty and comes with a 120-night sleep trial.

Many people — hot sleepers in particular — prefer lightweight comforters that insulate from the cold on chilly nights and provide minimal coverage when temperatures drop. The AiryWeight Eucalyptus Comforter lives up to its name thanks to a slim profile and light design. Both the fiber fill and shell are composed of Tencel, a eucalyptus-derived lyocell material known for exceptional cooling and moisture control. The fibers also have a plush, lofty feel, so the comforter should feel sufficiently cozy when you need extra warmth.

A sateen weave gives the shell a luxuriously smooth hand-feel. This can be particularly beneficial for people with acne, eczema, and other conditions that cause sensitive skin. Sijo recommends dry cleaning the comforter, as machine washing can shorten the lifespan. You can use a duvet cover to safeguard the outer fabric from stains and dust in between cleanings. Corner loops help secure the comforter to the cover.

Certifications from the Forest Stewardship Council and Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification indicate the wood pulp used to produce the lyocell has been sustainably sourced. Full/queen and king/California king designs are available, both of which are oversized to accommodate you and a sleep partner with ample coverage. Sijo offers free ground shipping for all U.S. orders. If you aren’t satisfied with the AiryWeight Eucalyptus Comforter, you may return it within 30 days of receipt at no extra cost.

Many bedding products today are made from bamboo-derived fabrics, but the Cozy Earth Bamboo Comforter is one of the only sleep accessories on the market composed entirely of these materials. The cover is breathable viscose with a silky-soft sateen weave, while the fill is formed from bamboo-derived fibers that give the comforter a lofty, cozy feel. The result is a luxurious comforter that shields you from the cold while also sleeping cool and wicking moisture away from your body.

Customers can also opt for a comforter constructed from silk instead of bamboo-derived materials. This option provides the same excellent temperature neutrality, but feels fluffier and more like a traditional down comforter. The silk model costs considerably more than its bamboo-derived counterpart, so shoppers should take note of pricing differences when choosing between the two.

You can also choose between two fill volumes depending on how much warmth you prefer while you sleep. The “standard” fill is best suited for all-season use, while “extra” fill should provide more insulation in cooler climates. Both styles are fully machine washable, though Cozy Earth recommends drying with tennis balls to prevent clumping and encourages owners to use a duvet cover rather than frequently cleaning the comforter.

Cozy Earth takes measures at each stage of production to ensure the materials used in this comforter and other sleep products are sustainably sourced. Each purchase comes with a 100-night sleep trial, and those who keep their comforter also receive a 10-year warranty against structural defects.

The Buffy Cloud Comforter is a supremely soft comforter that lives up to its name. It’s made from innovative eco-friendly materials, and environmentally conscious shoppers will appreciate the company’s dedication to carbon neutrality. The fill comes from shredded recycled plastic bottles that give the blanket a lofty and plush feel.

The shell material is made with sustainability in mind. The Tencel lyocell fabric is derived from eucalyptus, which takes less water than cotton to produce. Its Tencel fabric is also exceptionally soft, thanks to the 300 thread count and sateen weave.

Shoppers looking for an all-season comforter will appreciate this model’s blend of insulation and temperature control. The recycled plastic fill helps you stay warm, while the Tencel fabric allows air to pass freely through the blanket.

Durable quilting keeps the fill in place and ensures the blanket’s longevity. Though this comforter is machine-washable, Buffy recommends using a duvet cover for added protection. There are loops at each corner to keep your duvet cover securely attached. You can purchase the Buffy Cloud in three standard dimensions.

Each blanket comes with a 7-day free trial. The company doesn’t charge your card until 7 days after delivery, allowing you to sleep with the comforter before deciding whether to keep and pay for it. Shipping is free to all 50 states and paid shipping is available for Canadian shoppers.

The Comma Home Eucalyptus Comforter is breathable and cozy in equal measure, making it suitable for use throughout the year. The shell is composed of lyocell, a fabric derived from eucalyptus that retains the exceptional breathability of its botanical source, so the comforter should sleep fairly cool during warmer times of the year. Lyocell also has moisture-wicking properties to keep you dry and comfortable on humid nights. At the same time, lofty PET fiber fill insulates well to help you stay warm when temperatures drop.

Recycled plastic bottles are used to produce the fibers, a characteristic that should appeal to shoppers who wish to purchase sustainably made items. The shell fabric is also silky-smooth and won’t irritate or rub too harshly if you have acne, eczema, or other skin conditions. You can wash and dry the comforter in any household machine. Wash it separately on a gentle cycle, then tumble dry on low heat – though spot cleaning will better preserve the comforter’s structural integrity. You may also use the comforter with a washable duvet cover. Eight internal loops allow you to secure it to a cover with relative ease.

The comforter is available in queen and king sizes, both of which are reasonably priced compared to other eucalyptus-derived bedding items. Ground delivery is free of charge for customers in the contiguous U.S., and Comma Home offers reasonable shipping rates for Alaska, Hawaii, and Canada. Returns are accepted within 30 days, provided the comforter is in pristine condition.

Shoppers who want a comforter that’s both soft and unique will appreciate the Cotton Designer Comforter from Villa. Featuring a shell made from 100% long-staple cotton and a polyester fill, this comforter should function well in a range of climates. The cotton’s 300 thread count and percale weave create a crisp and breathable fabric. Villa’s comforter uses single-ply yarn, which is known to be soft as well as durable.

Shoppers can choose from eight bold patterns. The colorful designs were sketched and painted by artists in Italy, then digitally printed onto the fabric. The printing process aims to preserve the intricacies of each design. The set comes with one comforter and two shams which are all machine-washable. Though you can tumble dry each piece, Villa recommends line drying to preserve the fabric.

This comforter is OEKO-TEX certified and can be purchased in full/queen and king/California king dimensions. Those in the U.S. enjoy free shipping and a 60-day trial window.

In-Depth Comforter Guides

For more personalized comforter guides, check out the following pages:

How to Choose a Comforter

A comforter is a necessary piece of bedding for many people. Shoppers should consider their bedroom aesthetic and environment, in addition to specific needs like temperature regulation. We’ll break down what to consider when shopping for a comforter here.

What to Consider When Purchasing a Comforter

The following are the top factors to consider when shopping for a new comforter. These will help you determine the quality of the comforter and how well it meets your specific needs. They’ll also help filter out some of the noise of marketing terms and buzzwords used by companies, as certain features are less important than companies may have you believe.

Quality Materials
Quality materials extend the lifespan of a comforter and affect how it feels. The quality of the comforter’s shell, fill, and construction should all be considered. This includes the type of stitching used to keep the fill in place. A breathable shell can encourage temperature regulation, but the fabric should also prevent fill from escaping.

For down comforters, shoppers will want to consider any relevant certifications, such as the Responsible Down Standard, that indicate the comforter is filled with high-quality down.

Lastly, since price can be affected by quality, shoppers should be aware that a high-quality comforter may cost more upfront but should provide a better return on investment.

Size
Duvets have two pieces – a duvet insert and cover – whereas comforters are standalone pieces that are often white or neutral in color. That being said, comforters can also be paired with a duvet cover to match your bedroom decor. Some comforters have a wider variety of designs available, including solid colors or prints, though these options may be more limited.

The stitching on a comforter adds an element of design while also keeping the fill in place. Comforters that are designed to be used with a duvet cover often incorporate corner loops for cover ties. Comforters just cover the mattress, which differs from bedspreads that cover both the mattress and box spring.

Weight
The weight of a comforter can range from lightweight to heavy, and shoppers will want to consider whether or not they sleep hot, what temperature they keep their bedrooms, and if they plan to use the comforter year-round.

Hot sleepers and those in warm climates will benefit more from a lightweight comforter. The midweight or all-season comforters are better for year-round use, as they regulate temperature and keep sleepers from feeling too hot or too cold depending on the season. Heavyweight comforters are best for cold sleepers, winter months, and those who live in cold areas. The shell and fill material impact the weight of the comforter.

Design
Comforters are often white or neutral in color, as they last a long time but can also be paired with a duvet cover. Some have a wider variety of designs available, including solid colors or prints, though these options may be more limited.

The stitching on a comforter adds an element of design while also keeping the fill in place. Comforters that are designed to be used with a duvet cover often incorporate corner loops for cover ties.

Price
There is a wide price range for comforters, from budget to luxury options. Price is not the only marker of quality, but more expensive comforters are often made with higher quality fabrics and fill. This is most noticeable with down comforters, as ethically sourced materials can be more expensive. Setting a budget beforehand can help shoppers narrow down their options.

Temperature Regulation
The breathability of a comforter is determined by the shell and fill, both of which can either retain heat or help dissipate it. Down can act as natural insulation to regulate temperature, though it may still sleep warm for some. Polyester down alternative can also retain heat, though some down alternatives are designed to be breathable and lightweight. Natural fibers like cotton and eucalyptus are breathable and moisture-wicking.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Comforters?

There are several pros and cons to comforters that shoppers should consider before making a purchase. One of the main pros of using a comforter is that it adds an insulating layer to the bed, which is ideal for colder seasons or sleeping with the air conditioning on.

A main downside to using a comforter is the maintenance involved. When used without a cover or a top sheet, a comforter will need to be washed regularly, adding to the expense of the comforter while shortening its lifespan. They can also be difficult to clean at home, since most are too large for a residential washer and dryer to efficiently clean.

What Types of Comforters are Available?

When selecting a comforter, the quality of the materials used will be more important than the material itself. That said, there are certain materials that are likely to be used in comforters and it is helpful for shoppers to understand the different types of comforters available. This is determined by the shell and fill materials used, which we will break down here. Some materials are considered to be more luxury, while others lend themselves more to affordability.

Shell Materials

Cotton: Cotton is light and breathable, and it is often used to form the shell of a comforter. This fiber naturally wicks away moisture while increasing airflow throughout the comforter. It can also be easy to keep clean. Long-staple cotton tends to be softer, while short-staple cotton is used to make fabrics like flannel.

Silk: Silk is often used in luxury bedding as it has a smooth, lightweight hand feel. Silk can help regulate temperature, but it is a delicate material that requires additional care. It can drive up the price-point of the comforter.

Wool: Wool is a warmer natural fiber that regulates temperature and wicks away moisture. It is often used in heavier comforters.

Eucalyptus: Eucalyptus fibers are soft and breathable. Fabric made from eucalyptus tends to be environmentally friendly, as eucalyptus requires less water to produce than plants like cotton.

Fill Materials

Down: Down is the soft plumage found underneath the feathers of birds. Down comforters are typically filled with duck down or goose down, which differ in cluster size and warmth. Duck down is made of smaller clusters for a soft and fluffy feel that is still insulating. Goose down tends to have larger clusters for a higher fill power and added warmth. This also gives the comforter more loft. Down can be expensive and shoppers will want to look for traceable supply chains and certifications that indicate the down was responsibly sourced.

Down Alternative: Down alternative is synthetic fiber fill, typically made with polyester, that mimics the feel of down. This alternative is beneficial for sleepers with allergies, or those who want vegan bedding. Down alternative comforters are often more affordable, but not all down alternative fills are created equally. The quality of the down alternative fill determines how long the comforter lasts without getting lumpy, in addition to how well it regulates temperature.

Eucalyptus: Plant-based fibers are becoming more popular, and some comforters are filled with eucalyptus fibers. This fiber fill resists allergens and wicks away heat and moisture. It also has less of an environmental footprint, as eucalyptus is a renewable resource.

Cotton: Cotton is a breathable, natural fiber that feels soft and lightweight. It is less insulating than down, so it is often used in lighter comforters intended for summer use. Organic cotton is more expensive, but some shoppers may prefer it as it is grown and processed without harsh chemicals.

Wool: Wool, which is sheared from sheep, is another fill option for comforters. Wool acts as natural insulation, so it stays warm in colder climates, and cooler in warm environments. This makes it ideal for all-season comforters.

In addition to materials, construction is important. Shoppers should consider the stitching used to secure the fill, in addition to the weave used for the fabric shell. These can prevent shifting and clumping, in addition to fill poking through. Quality materials and durable construction methods will ensure the comforter lasts for many years.