If you’re experiencing night sweats and hot flashes due to menopause or other hormonal changes, choosing bedding that keeps you cool while you sleep is one of your best defenses against waking up in a pool of sweat. And while we always encourage speaking to your doctor about medical interventions, like hormone therapy, to address perimenopause and menopause symptoms, there’s no reason why you can’t tackle your health changes from multiple angles. Whether that means lining your bed with cooling sheets or choosing a cooling pillow to help lower your body temperature, lightweight and moisture-wicking products are where it’s at when it comes to managing the discomfort of night sweats. That’s why the best lightweight duvet inserts are another excellent idea if you’re upgrading your bedding.
Of course, you’re also probably wondering whether a duvet or a comforter is the better choice when it comes to cooling. Though many use duvets and comforters interchangeably, it turns out there are differences between the two. Duvets are typically inserts that line a sheet-like fabric or comfort to offer a more plush blanket to sleep with. They also come with different warmth levels and fills, so you can adjust based on your needs — a big plus if you’re looking for less or more lightweight filling to manage body temperature changes. To take the guesswork out of landing on a lightweight duvet, we explored what to look for in an insert and eight of the best options to shop right now.
Best Lightweight Duvet Inserts at a Glance
Best Overall: Boll & Branch Down Duvet Insert, $409
Best Splurge Lightweight Duvet Insert: Cozy Earth Comforter, $284.80, was $356
Easiest to Use Lightweight Duvet Insert: Brooklinen Down Alternative Duvet Insert, $215.20, was $269
Best Down Alternative: Quince Premium Down Alternative Comforter, $99.90
Best All-Season Lightweight Duvet Insert: Casaluna Premium Down Comforter, $96.75, was $129
Most Affordable Lightweight Duvet Insert: Bedsure Duvet Insert Queen Comforter, $73.99
Best Cooling Lightweight Duvet Insert: Rest Evercool Cooling Comforter, $199
Most Plush Lightweight Duvet Insert: Puredown All Season Down Comforter Duvet Insert, $77.99, was $249.99
Best Sensitive-Skin Lightweight Duvet Insert: Buffy Cloud Comforter Duvet Insert, $175
What Is the Lightest Duvet Filling?
When looking for a lightweight duvet insert, consider its fill (an essential feature) before purchasing. Traditionally, these inserts are made with down, but many brands are changing things up with new, more ethically sourced filling. Those with allergies and skin sensitivities should look for alternatives like cotton, polyester, and polyester microfiber.
What Is the Best Material for a Lightweight Duvet Shell?
Aside from considering the down your duvet insert is crafted from, look at its shell. The lightest materials are cotton and linen, which are breathable and light. Plus, both fabrics are soft to the touch. You can also consider sateen and silk. Lastly, bamboo offers excellent options for those battling night sweats during menopause due to its moisture-wicking and cooling properties.
Ahead, see our list of the nine best lightweight duvet inserts for any season.