Luxury Size 230TC Down Comforter Alternatives

Fillings and Exterior Fabric

• Alternative down fillings may be rayon, polyester or even wool. Wool fibers are particularly resistant to dust, fire and allergens. The exterior fabric may be a synthetic blend, cotton, silk or wool. The filling is stitched into channels or boxes to prevent the filling from shifting with use. When the exterior fabric is not especially strong, or shows signs of sagging or piling after washing, a duvet cover will protect the comforter and extend its usefulness.

Warmth

• Down delivers the ultimate in lightweight warmth, however, according to a comparative study of alternative downs by Good Housekeeping, Cuddledown is a viable synthetic match for the real thing. Tied for first place in the Good Housekeeping study was a product called Beyond Down by the Carpenter Company. This synthetic alternative also offered superior warmth at an especially low price, although it was heavier. Virtually all synthetics offer warmth, yet most are considerably heavier than down and do not have its natural insulating quality.

Maintenance and Attractiveness

• Most alternative down comforters are machine-washable, so they can be maintained at home by regular washings using the delicate cycle, and tumbled dry on a low temperature setting. If the comforter is a large size, such as a queen or king, an oversized washing machine at a coin laundry may be required. Washing may cause shrinkage and pilling, depending on the quality of the exterior fabric fibers, and the filling may appear somewhat lumpy. Some alternative downs require professional dry cleaning. Washing the duvet cover instead of the comforter will cut down on the negative effects of washing on the comforter.

Cost

• Alternative down comforters are less expensive that real down. Prices for a twin size comforter range from $60 to $160. An especially luxurious hotel grade comforter in a queen or king size may cost $320. With the added bonus of being able to maintain the bedding at home, alternative down becomes an attractive, practical and cost efficient alternative.