The Differences in Down Alternative Comforters

Weight

• Real down comforters are heavier than those filled with thin layers of plastic fiber fill. If you enjoy the comforting wrap of a down comforter, choose an alternative material with a similar weight. Wool comes close, according to Use Down Comforters (usedowncomforters.com), with sheep's wool most closely mimicking down's weight. Alpaca and merino wool fillings are also available but aren't as heavy as down. These types of wool are usually treated so they are completely hypoallergenic. Synthetic materials mimic the texture of the down but are often missing the weight many people desire.

Texture

• The lumpy, shifting texture of real down and feathers moving inside the comforter is not accurately replicated by natural fillers like wool and silk. A number of synthetic materials do a better job at this, according to Down Alternatives (downalternatives.org), because they are shaped into forms that resemble soft down and stiffer feathers. Synthetic down is made from spun polyester, which is capable of maintaining its shape for nearly as long as down feathers.

Dust Control

• If you're not allergic to the goose down itself, but rather the dust and dust mites that accompany it, a special dust control down blend may be the best alternative. These down blends combine real feathers with milkweed or syriaca fibers says Down Mattress Topper (downmattresstopper.net). The alternative additives prevent dust problems better than down alternatives like wool and polyester do. Many people who have allergic reactions find that a hypoallergenic down filler doesn't trigger any symptoms and still offers all the warmth and feel of down.

Environmental Impact

• Not all down alternatives are created equally when it comes to the environmental impact. Wool and silk are both biodegradable and sustainable, but polyester is neither, according to Green Living Q&A (greenlivingqa.com). Polyester is made from petroleum products that produce a lot of toxins and waste that is difficult to dispose of. Plastic-based materials often off-gas and release hormone disrupting toxins that you may inhale. While little research has been done on polyester down alternatives specifically, they could still prove to be a health concern.