The top 5 comforters of 2023
A cloud-like, comfortable, and heat-insulating comforter can transform your sleep experience, enveloping you in a warm embrace every time you drift off to sleep. Whether you’re in search of a classic down comforter made from genuine feathers or prefer hypoallergenic down alternatives, there’s a comforter out there to suit your needs, regardless of your sleep style.
After hours of research, I’ve gathered dozens of top-tier comforters on the market and conducted tests on them in a laboratory in Des Moines, Iowa. We evaluated them based on their quality, texture, breathability, durability, and overall value. Throughout the testing process, I paid special attention to factors such as weight, structure, materials, ease of care, and temperature-regulating properties.
Understanding What You Need Before Getting Started
Comforters are classified based on their filling types, each with its own set of advantages and drawbacks:
Down Comforters:
Down is made from the coating beneath the feathers of geese or ducks. While authentic down is often pricier than other types of fillings, down comforters are renowned for being extremely warm, durable, and luxurious. However, they typically cannot be machine-washed and may require dry cleaning.
Down Alternative Comforters:
Down alternative fillings can be crafted from various synthetic and natural materials, including recycled ultra-fine fibers and cotton. Unlike down comforters, down alternatives are known for their low allergenicity. Additionally, they are generally more affordable and easier to clean compared to authentic down comforters.
Buffy Breeze Comforter
Among all the options I’ve put to the test, my top pick has to be the Buffy Breeze comforter, which left a lasting impression on me throughout the laboratory testing process. Crafted from lyocell fibers derived from eucalyptus trees, both the shell and filling set it apart from many other synthetic alternatives in the market. Despite lacking genuine down, it avoids the synthetic feel common in numerous substitutes. Upon initial inspection, the construction of the comforter stood out, showcasing even distribution of the fill, sturdy corner loops, and secure stitching. The shell, exceptionally soft and smooth, combined with the lightweight filling, provided a pillow-like sensation.
Utilizing a stitched structure, this comforter connects the top and bottom layers of fabric. While this design aids in keeping the fill in place, stitched comforters often lack the loftiness and insulation found in box-stitched counterparts. This was evident in my lab tests, as the Buffy Breeze comforter wasn’t the fluffiest option I experimented with. (For those seeking a high-quality comforter, check out my top pick for winter, the Casaluna Premium Down Comforter!) Nevertheless, I appreciated the comfortable balance between warmth and breathability that this product offered. Additionally, I encountered no issues with clumping or shifting of the fill, as it maintained uniformity throughout the testing process.
Lying beneath this comforter, I was impressed by the warmth it provided without feeling suffocating. It achieves a perfect equilibrium between comfort, lightweight feel, and durability. Resting gently on the body, it allowed for easy readjustment and manipulation. While I admired almost everything about this comforter, it’s worth noting that it’s dry clean only, which may not be the most convenient. However, if you’re willing to invest a bit more attention into caring for this high-quality product, I believe the extra effort is worthwhile.
Release Price: Standard/Queen Size $180
Utopia Bedding Down Alternative Comforter
The Utopia Bedding Comforter stands out as the most value-packed item on my list, presenting itself as a down alternative that aced every aspect of my testing. Crafted from 100% ultra-fine fibers, it boasts an exceptionally soft texture while maintaining an affordable price point. The craftsmanship is top-notch, featuring neatly piped edges, a classic quilted design, and a flawless finish. Nestling beneath the comforter, I was deeply impressed by its breathability and temperature-regulating properties. This comforter falls on the lighter side, making it an ideal choice for those prone to nighttime overheating.
I appreciate the convenience of this comforter being machine washable and dryer-friendly, simplifying the care routine. Following a lab experiment involving a coffee stain, the ease with which it was removed using just a damp towel underscored its stain resistance and durability. With a range of seven colors and patterns, it not only offers functionality but also serves as a stylish option for those opting to go without a duvet cover. However, for those who choose to use one, the comforter comes equipped with corner loops for secure fastening.
While the available color options are appealing, it’s worth noting that the actual hues may slightly differ from their online representation. Upon delivery, the comforter is neatly packaged in a plastic zippered case, requiring a bit of time to fluff up, a process repeated after each wash cycle.
After six months of rigorous testing in my home, I’m pleased to report that my recommendation for this comforter remains strong. It has demonstrated remarkable durability, showing no signs of wear and tear even after consistent use and multiple cycles in the washer and dryer. Its ability to effectively prevent overheating while providing ample warmth on colder nights continues to be a standout feature.
Published Price: $26 for Queen Size
Rest Evercool Cooling Comforter
For those prone to nighttime overheating, the Rest Evercool Cooling Comforter is undoubtedly worth a look. Among the most uniquely crafted comforters I’ve tested, it boasts one of the market’s most effective cooling and moisture-wicking performances. Constructed from a blend of 90/10 nylon and spandex, the fabric feels as smooth as butter, almost slippery to the touch. Its texture stands out from any other comforter I’ve experienced, but I eventually found it to be remarkably comfortable. While it doesn’t have the loftiness of some other comforters, it exudes a solid and well-crafted feel, featuring a high-quality structure.
When placed beneath, it maintains a cool touch throughout the testing process, showcasing impressive breathability and moisture-wicking capabilities. The comforter drapes nicely on the bed, providing a sense of freedom without any feeling of constraint or suffocation. After cleaning, I did notice some minor issues. It retained its original shape, and there were no changes in overall construction quality. However, I did observe some filling, especially in the larger sections, slightly gathering towards the outer edges. Nevertheless, this is a minor issue that can be easily corrected with a gentle shake. Overall, this comforter may not align with the traditional expectations of a classic comforter, but I believe it’s definitely worth considering if you prefer a warmer sleep environment.
Published Price: $239 for Queen Size
Casaluna Premium Down Comforter
This winter, envelop yourself in the Casaluna Premium Down Comforter for an impressive level of warmth and unparalleled comfort. Featuring a robust 600 fill power, this carefully selected filling consists of 75% white duck down and 25% white duck feathers, making it an ideal choice for anyone in need of a heavyweight comforter. I tested the all-season density, but this comforter also comes in lightweight and heavyweight options. Initially, I was impressed by its sturdy construction, noticeably heavier compared to some other options I’ve evaluated. The stitched structure boasts evenly distributed down filling, achieving the classic loftiness expected from down. The shell, made of cotton satin, feels substantial and structured to the touch. Additionally, it showcases stylish embroidery, adding a beautiful touch that can be displayed without a cover.
Lying beneath the insert, I found it to be quite weighty, making it challenging to manipulate and shift positions while rolling. Transferring and adjusting positions without feeling restricted is rather difficult. Nevertheless, sleeping flat doesn’t feel excessively heavy; instead, it gives the sensation of a weighted blanket with gentle, soothing pressure. Despite its weight, I didn’t experience overheating, as the comforter feels breathable. Throughout the testing period, I observed that the filling remained evenly distributed and maintained this state. Even after cleaning, the comforter retained its luxurious appearance and feel. While I noticed some wrinkles after washing, they were well disguised by the woven pattern on the shell.
Published Price: All-Season, Full/Queen Size $169
Brooklinen Down Alternative Comforter
For those who appreciate lightweight bedding that provides warmth without feeling too heavy, I recommend the Brooklinen Down Alternative Comforter. It strikes a perfect balance with its lightweight, all-season suitability, and exceptional warmth. After personally testing its lightweight density, it lived up to its reputation, delivering a gentle, cloud-like sleeping experience. Crafted with a luxurious satin shell, it’s not only durable but also incredibly soft to the touch. As for the filling, I appreciate that it’s made from recycled PET ultra-fine fibers, providing a soft feel that’s evenly distributed without any clumping.
Lying beneath it, I noticed that the comforter feels lofty without being overly heavy or restrictive. It certainly provides insulation, heating up to a comfortable degree while maintaining breathability. I was able to adjust and move the comforter without much struggle or effort. After tossing and turning beneath the comforter, I observed slight movement of the filling, but it remained relatively dispersed rather than clumping together. While I love almost everything about this comforter, it’s important to note that it is dry clean only, meaning you can’t toss it into the laundry for a quick refresh.
Published Price: Lightweight, Full/Queen Size $209
