Queen Down

how do down-alternative comforters compare to down comforters?

i have a down comforter which is just about the warmest and most comfortable thing in the world. i'm curious however about down-alternative comforters... how do they compare. i know they cost far less but are they nearly as warm? are they as comfortable? as fluffy? how long do they last?

Public Comments

1. I use a cotton-filled one, and have used acrylic as well. I found them perfectly acceptable. I am allergic to feathers and wool so I needed an alternative. They keep me very warm.
2. Never heard down-alternative. Where oh where have I been all my life. . . . . All I know, true down is always the warmest. I have down comforter for many, many years and still is in great shape. We also have 2 down sleeping bags which we've had longer that the comforter and are used more. They are also in great shape. Down comforter is in guest room. Too small for our king size bed. Sure wish we could use on our bed. Sure you'll get better answers from others who know more about the alternative.
3. With quilts there are five basic types of filling. Feather and down Wool Cotton Acrylic and Blends. I do not recommend feather and down quilts- they are physically heavy, hard to clean and sanitize and harbor allergens that many people are allergic to. Also the filling tends to move about, even with box stiching. Wool quilts are very breathable and are good in both summer and winter. Wool is naturally anti-allergenic repelling dust mites and other nasties. On the down side most wool quilts are dry clean only, as washing shrinks the fibers. Cotton Quilts are great for summer or warm climates. They are light and breathe really well. They make a good alternative to wool or feather and down for those who cant use them but still want a natural fibre. Usually they are able to be machine washed and line dried (check the label for instructions) which is great for children who spill things or wet the bed. However cotton quilts are not really good for winter or cold areas as they generally only have a low warmth rating. Acrylic quilts come in all warmth ratings. They have the advantage of being cheap and easily cleaned in the washing machine. Their disadvantage is that they can loose their warmth with time and use and the acrylic fibers provide an ideal environment for dust mites and other allergens. Blended quilts are typically a mix of wool and acrylic or less commonly acrylic and cotton fillings. The advantage of blending the two materials (wool and acrylic) is that the acrylic fibers prevent the wool fibers shrinking so it can be washed instead of dry cleaned but retains the advantages of wool. The cotton and acrylic blend is much less commonly found, its advantage is that the acrylic adds extra warmth to the cotton whilst keeping the physical weight down. All quilts should be fluffed and aired each time you change the sheets. If possible an hours hanging on the line in the sun for each side of the quilt will help to refresh it and kill allergens. Quilts should be washed or dry cleaned yearly. It is reccomended for both quilts and pillows that they are replaced every 5 years. generally their maximum lifespan of about 7 years. Feather and down and wool quilts can however be rejuvenated rather than replaced. You will need to take it to a professional though.
4. i do not think they are made from goose feathers i think they use something else i wouldnt recomend them i would go for the real deal i have one also.