I got a new queen bed a few weeks ago (ok, used, but it was a friend's so I trust it), but I need to get bedding/linens for it. I've been sleeping on an old torn twin sized sheet with a thin comforter for a while, but I really need to get something decent that fits the bed. Since it is going to be 55F or so in my room all winter, it needs to be pretty warm. It would be great if I didn't have to wear the long underwear I normally use for snowboarding and winter camping :)
I've taken a look around and there are lots of options. I've settled on a normal set of sheets (1 fitted, 1 flat top sheet, 2 pillow cases), 2 pillows, a comforter/duvet, and maybe a duvet cover.
I would really like good quality, high thread count cotton sheets. They run anywhere from $60-$100 at places like Bed Bath & Beyond. There are also much cheaper microfiber options available online for $25 or so.
Pillows can be goose down, or synthetic. Synthetic runs $20 per pillow, down is $60-80 per pillow. Comforters can also be down or synthetic. A warm synthetic comforter is $80ish, and down is $250 or so (ouch!).
I do prefer the down options over the synthetic fill, but I consider it quite the luxury and would only go that route if the down option really lasts 3x longer or is 3x better than the synthetic option. Same goes for the cotton vs microfiber sheets.
Mustachians, what is your experience with how long the different beddings last and what is worth it or not? I'm anticipating that down isn't worth it, but the sheets are.