Basic Beyond Lightweight Comforter Set, 2-Piece

Comforter sets can include a comforter and pillow shams, while bed-in-a-bag sets include coordinating sheets and pillowcases. If you don’t want to shop for matching sheets, the latter choice makes sense. They are also nice gifts for newlyweds, college students and for housewarmings.

Comforters can usually fit inside of duvet covers, which can create a whole new look for your bed. Some are made with tabs or other attachments that make them easier to place inside duvet pockets.

As for the fill, down is a traditional favorite, but it is more expensive and some people can be allergic to it. Down alternatives like rayon, polyester and cotton can mimic down’s warmth and fluffiness. Microfiber is also a popular bedding material that feels soft and comfortable.

Be sure to measure your bed before ordering your comforter set. Some mattresses have more height than others, so be sure to check for that, since you may need sheets with extra-deep pockets.

• Down comforters are usually not machine washable, so you may have to pay to have yours professionally cleaned.
• A washable duvet cover is the best way to keep a down comforter clean, soft and fluffy without spending a lot of money on dry cleaning.
• Reversible comforters and sheets are a good choice because they give you two different looks for the price of one.
• Extra stitching on a comforter’s interior keeps the fill from moving around, preventing dead spaces and lumps.
• Higher-priced comforters are often made with baffle-box construction, which looks like a checkerboard.