ATsense Skin-Friendly Cotton Comforter Set, 3-Piece

Your comforter is an important part of your bedroom. Not only does it make your bedroom look attractive, but it can actually help keep you warm while you sleep. That allows you to turn down the thermostat a little and save some money on electricity.

But there are some things to consider when you’re shopping for a comforter. The first is how great it will look in your bedroom, but that’s not the last. You should also look at the size options, how thick it is and whether it can be cleaned in your washing machine.

If the person who will be using the comforter has sensitivities, you should narrow your search to comforters that use skin-safe fabrics like cotton. Also look at the fill, as down can be an issue for those who have allergies. Microfiber is a popular alternative to down. Some comforters also use safe dyes like those from plants to help those who suffer from chemical sensitivities.

One of the biggest considerations, though, is construction. You could save a little money on a comforter, only to find that it falls apart after a few months of use. Investing more in a comforter with reinforced stitching will pay off when it lasts for at least a few years.

• Comforters don’t last forever. Even if yours holds up after multiple washes and uses, you’ll probably find you need to replace it every few years. Pay close attention to how well it’s keeping its shape and plushness.
• If it’s time to buy a new comforter, certain times of year are better than others. The after-Christmas sales through January provide plenty of opportunities to save money. You’ll also find comforters go on sale in the late winter and early spring.
• Although thicker comforters can provide more warmth, consider whether you’ll be able to load them into your washer. Even on a “bulky/bedding” setting, some washers have difficulty handling the thickest comforters. Those have to be taken to a laundromat or dry cleaner, which brings an extra expense.
• There are two major types of comforters that are popular today: duvets and comforters. With a duvet, the filling can be easily stuffed into a cover. The best thing about this is that you can easily slide the cover off and toss it into the washing machine. You can also easily replace the insert and the cover separately as they wear out. Some comforters can be put inside a duvet cover if you want to change the look of your comforter. Just make sure your cover is large enough to comfortably house your comforter.