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The Spruce / Jay Wilde
From blankets and quilts to sheets and shams, there are plenty of components that make for a cozy bed setup—so many, in fact, it can be a bit difficult to know where to start. Enter: comforter sets. Sometimes referred to as a “bed in a bag,” comforter sets are a convenient (and often economical) solution that’s ideal for college students, guest bedrooms, or those just starting out in their first apartment. They typically come with a fitted sheet, a flat top sheet, two pillowcases, and a comforter, though larger sets may include bed skirts, decorative pillows, and more.
Besides their practicality, comforter sets can also make your bed look more intentional. “Investing in a comforter set will ensure your shams and comforter share a similar loft and cozy factor,” says Melissa Danielson, a member of Casper’s development team. However, that same cohesiveness can be a con for some sleepers. “It’s much more of a convenience factor, or a fashion statement,” says Nate Hascalovici of Allied Feather + Down, which supplies down-filling to retailers like Costco, Land’s End, and Restoration Hardware. “If you’re specific about your bedding needs, you’ll want to buy these things separately.”
What to Know Before You Get Started
Comforter vs. Duvet
Many bedding sets on the market are duvet sets rather than comforter sets—and, no, they’re not the same thing. Duvet sets include a duvet cover and sham, while comforter sets will include the actual comforter, along with a sham (and, if you’re lucky, pillows). To get even more specific, a duvet is the insert you place inside of a duvet cover, while a comforter is a single piece of bedding. A sham is a decorative pillow case that’s typically not used for sleeping.
Down Type
Comforters typically come with either a feather down fill or an alternative down fill. As you can imagine, there are pros and cons to each:
- Traditional down includes a mix of duck and goose feather clusters. Most down comforters have a higher percentage of duck down feathers; those with a higher percentage of goose down tend to be fluffier, as European goose down comes in larger feather clusters. Hascalovici recommends looking for a baffle box construction to ensure even feather distribution.
- Alternative down typically uses polyester fill instead of traditional down. It tends to be less plush and on the lighter side, but is often more affordable (and a common fill for comforter sets because it can more easily be machine-washed).
Certifications
As with any bedding, when shopping for a comforter set you’ll likely notice a handful of certifications. The most common ones you’ll see include:
- The Standard 100 by OEKOTEX certification ensures that every element of the product has been tested for potentially harmful substances, going beyond national and international requirements.
- The Responsible Down Standard, which refers to goose and duck down that’s been sourced in a humane way (ideally as a byproduct of the food industry).
Best Overall
Pottery Barn 3-Piece Silas Solid Comforter & Shams Set
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Pottery Barn
Oeko Tex-certified cotton
Versatile design
Breathable
Limited color options
For an all-around solid option that’s versatile enough to serve as a base for a variety of styles, we love this cotton set from Pottery Barn. Available in three neutral colors (white, flax, and "denim"—a light blue), the set is crafted from 100% Oeko Tex-certified cotton, offering a breathable feel that works well for year-round use. While we haven’t tested this particular set, our experiences with Pottery Barn’s cotton sheet sets have generally been positive; the retailer’s everyday sheet set holds up well in the wash and provides a cool, crisp feel.
This set only comes with a comforter and two pillow shams, but you can also opt for the 7-piece set, which includes a comforter, two shams, and a sheet set. It offers a similarly great value with the added bonus of a reversible design. However, at the time of writing, there are only two colors available, which may be a deterrent for some.
Price at time of publish: $149 for a Full/Queen
Sizes: Twin/twin XL, full/queen, king/Cal. king | Bedding included: Comforter, two pillow shams | Certifications: Standard 100 by Oeko-Tex | Return Window: 30 days
Best Budget
CozyLux Bed In A Bag Comforter Set
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Amazon
10+ colors to choose from
Deep pocket sheets
Comforter is very lightweight
With a whopping seven pieces, the Cozy Lux Bed in a Bag Comforter Set is ideal for those looking to score an entire bedding set in one swoop. Available in twin, queen, and king sizes, it comes with a comforter and two pillow shams, as well as a flat sheet, fitted sheet, and two pillowcases. The deep pocket sheets can fit mattresses up to 16 inches deep, making them ideal for pillowtop mattresses or those who use a mattress pad.
The comforter in this set is on the lighter side; it might not be the best option for those who prefer a heavier weight, though it can be layered with a blanket (or even a weighted blanket) for added coziness. Like the sheets and shams, the cover is made with microfiber, giving it a cozy and soft feel (just make sure to wash it on the gentle cycle, and in cold water, to prevent pilling). The seersucker design is versatile enough to add texture to all sorts of bedrooms. We also love that the set comes in 11 different color options, including go-to neutrals and brighter hues.
Price at time of publish: $71 for a Queen
Sizes: Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king | Bedding included: Comforter, pillow shams, sheet set | Certifications: None | Return Window: 30 days
Best Customizable
Brooklinen Luxe Move-In Bundle
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Brooklinen
A true all-in-one option
Breathable feel
Includes free eye mask
Prone to wrinkling
Sheen fades with time
As Hascalovici mentions, a common issue with comforter sets is their lack of customizability. Brooklinen’s Luxe Sateen Move-In Bundle solves this problem, giving you the option to not only customize the sheet color, but also the size, fill type, and weight of both the comforter and the pillows. This factor alone makes it an excellent choice for those who are just starting out in their new home and want to ensure their bedding matches their needs—all without the hassle of buying things piecemeal.
This bedding bundle includes two pillows, one comforter, one sheet set, one duvet cover, and two extra pillowcases. The move-in bundle is an upgrade from Brooklinen’s Hardcore Bundle, which includes everything but the pillows and comforter. It’s available in a few other materials, including percale, linen, and brushed cashmere, but based on our experiences testing Brooklinen’s sheet sets—including the Classic Percale Core Sheet Set, the Luxe Core Sheet Set, and the Linen Core Sheet Set—we’re most inclined to recommend the sateen option. While the sheets often wrinkled after being washed and lost their sheen with time, all in all they proved to be a high-quality option. (We experienced some quality issues with the Classic Core Sheet Set, including ripping and shrinkage in the wash, and the linen and cashmere options might not be practical enough for day-to-day use.)
Price at time of publish: $652 for a Twin
Sizes: Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king | Bedding included: One comforter, two pillows, one sheet set, one duvet cover, two extra pillowcases, eye mask | Certifications: Standard 100 by Oeko-Tex | Return Window: 365 days
Best for College Students
The Company Store Jersey Knit Comforter Set
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The Company Store
Many color choices
Suitable for year-round use
Sheets sold separately
In college, bedding is not only an opportunity to showcase your style, but also make a dorm room feel more like home. While it’s on the plainer side, this jersey comforter set from The Company Store is a versatile and cozy option that can easily be dressed up with some throw pillows and a cozy blanket.
Available in a dozen colors and five sizes, this comforter set can suit a wide variety of decor needs—from a minimal, Scandinavian-inspired vibe (we’d go for the white or light gray) to a bolder color scheme (the set comes in statement-making colors like turquoise, red, and lavendar). The material is described as having a feel similar to your favorite t-shirt, making it ideal to snuggle up in after a long night. Just note that the set only includes a comforter and sham, so you’ll have to buy sheets separately. Luckily, the Company Store has an entire jersey line that includes pillowcases, bed sheets, quilts, and more.
Price at time of publish: $160 for Twin XL
Sizes: Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king | Bedding included: One comforter and up to two shams | Certifications: None listed | Return Window: 30 days
Best for Kids
The Company Store Night Sky Classic Cool Organic Cotton Percale Comforter Set
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The Company Store
Versatile design
Multiple patterns
Only two sizes available
Another option from the Company Store, this night sky-themed comforter set is a perfect gender-neutral option for kiddos of all stripes. Whether they’re sleeping in a twin-sized bed or a full/queen, this set is a great, high-quality option that will last them (and you) for more than just a few seasons. The print is subtle enough to work in a variety of room styles, though the retailer also offers other pattern options, like this cute dinosaur set and a multi-colored floral option. The twin size includes one comforter and one pillow sham, while the full/queen size comes with one comforter and two shams. You’ll have to buy sheets separately; if you’re after a coordinated look, The Company Store offers a set in the same pattern.
Price at time of publish: $169 for a Twin
Sizes: Twin, full/queen | Bedding included: One comforter and up to two shams | Certifications: Standard 100 by Oeko-Tex | Return Window: 30 days
Best Patterned
Marimekko Ruukku Comforter & Sham Set
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Nordstrom
Breathable construction
Bright and bold design
Doesn’t come in Twin XL or Cali King
Marimekko is known for its bold, pop art-inspired designs, and this graphic floral comforter set is no exception. Made with 100% cotton, it’s available in twin, queen, and king sizes, and comes with a comforter and up to two standard shams (the twin size only comes with one). While its weight might not be heavy enough for cooler months, the comforter can easily be paired with a heavier blanket or flannel sheets for a more winter-appropriate setup.
Price at time of publish: $350 for a Queen
Sizes: Queen, king | Bedding included: One comforter and up to two shams | Certifications: None listed | Return Window: 30 days
Best for Guest Rooms
DKNY Chenille Stripe Comforter & Sham Set
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Amazon
Versatile design
Two color options
Only available in queen and king sizes
If you’re looking to outfit your guest room, comforter sets are the ideal option—and this striped chenille set from DKNY is one of our favorite picks. It has a neutral, farmhouse-inspired design and comes in your choice of two colors (neutral white and gray with white stripes) that would both pair well with a variety of aesthetics.
As with some other options on our list, this set is made with 100% cotton, providing a breathable feel that’s well-suited for year-round use. It’s only available in two sizes (full/queen and king/California king) and comes with three pieces, including a comforter and two pillow shams. You’ll have to purchase sheets separately.
Price at time of publish: $220
Sizes: Full/queen, king/Cal. king | Bedding included: One comforter and two shams | Certifications: None listed | Return Window: 30 days
While there’s no comforter set that’s going to check the boxes of every kind of sleeper, the Pottery Barn Silas Comforter Set is an all-around solid option that’s versatile enough to suit many different spaces. If you’re looking to outfit your primary bedroom and have more particular bedding tastes, we recommend the Brooklinen Luxe Move-In Bundle. Made with a crisp sateen, you can choose between a variety of sizes, fill types, pillow types, and more.
What to Look for in a Comforter Set
Design
“Make sure to choose a color or pattern that you’ll love, and one that fits well with your other decor,” says Karin Sun, bedding and textile industry veteran and the founder of Crane & Canopy. “Neutral, calming, and lighter colors such as grays and blues often work best; however, you can also choose a pop of color with a bright comforter to make a decor statement,” Sun adds.
Material
Sun recommends looking for comforters made from easy-care material, such as one with a cotton cover and down alternative fill. “It is more difficult to wash your comforter due to its size, so choose an easy-care material that you will be able to wash at home versus the dry cleaners,” Sun says. Most of the options we recommend on this list, including the Pottery Barn Silas Comforter Set and the Brooklinen Lux Move-In Bundle, are made with 100% cotton, though microfiber options like the Cozy Lux Bed in a Bag Comforter Set are also easy to care for.
As Sun implies, when it comes to filling, goose or duck down-filled comforters are generally more high-maintenance, as you’ll often need to wash them multiple times to ensure that any laundry detergent is thoroughly removed from the down. And, while they’re more rare, comforter sets in materials like cashmere or satin are more prone to snags and other damage.
Weight
“Given a comforter is an all-in-one topper versus a duvet with a duvet cover that can be swapped for a lighter insert during summer, try to choose a good all-season medium weight,” Sun says. The Brooklinen Lux Move-In Bundle comes in a medium-weight option. For lighter weight options like the Marimekko Comforter Set or The Company Store Night Sky Organic Cotton Percale Comforter Set, you can always add an extra blanket underneath during the winter and pair with sheets alone in warmer weather.
Finally, for those who live in warmer climates, Sun recommends ditching the comforter set and instead investing in a lightweight quilt set, since it adds that additional layer without too much warmth.
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What material is best for a comforter?
It’s important to look for the right material for you, as preferences can vary from person to person. “Fill material comes in a few different categories, including goose or feather down, alternative down, and cotton-filled,” Sun says, noting that each material has its own benefits. Sun adds that goose down is a more expensive material, but it also has a wide warmth range and superior loft and volume. Down alternative is similar to goose down with a wide warmth range, but it typically costs less and is easier to care for compared to goose down. Lastly, cotton fill “has superior breathability and is perfect for warm sleepers and those looking for a 100 percent natural down alternative.”
As for the comforter shell, Sun says the preferred material is a premium 100 percent long-staple cotton, since it’s breathable, machine-washable, and durable.
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How much should you pay for a good comforter set?
Depending on the size of your bed and the type of filling the comforter contains, you can expect to spend from $50 to over $500 for a good comforter set. The highest-priced comforter sets are king-sized with goose-down filling.
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What is the difference between a duvet and a comforter?
The primary difference between a duvet and a comforter is that a duvet comes in two parts, the insert and the cover, while a comforter is all in one piece. Duvet covers, which are the decorative element of the bedding, can hold different weight inserts which can be swapped out during warmer and colder periods. These inserts are usually plain white with no decorative elements. A comforter is used as a blanket to sleep under and is placed on top of your sheets when you make your bed.
Why Trust The Spruce?
Lily Sperry is a long-time editor at The Spruce with expertise in bedding, bath, and home decor. To compile picks for this roundup, she conducted extensive research, referencing both customer reviews and insights from The Spruce’s very own testing team. In addition, she spoke with Nate Hascalovici from Allied Feather + Down for insight on different down materials and the benefits of opting for a comforter set.
Our Experts:
- Jessie Quinn, contributing writer at The Spruce.
- Melissa Danielson, a member of Casper’s product development team.
- Karin Sun, founder of Crane & Canopy.
- Nate Hascalovici, Chief Operating Officer at Allied Feather + Down.
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