Duvets vs. Comforters: Understanding Duvet Types

Certain types of bedding such as the Nolah Bamboo Sheet Set have moisture-wicking and cooling properties which make them ideal for hot summer nights.  But when summer turns to fall and the nights are enveloped in a slight chill, you'll want to consider fall blankets and bedding to wrap yourself up warm in bed to have cozy restful sleep. But, do you use a duvet or a comforter? Let’s distinguish between the two so you can find the best one for your sleep needs.   

A duvet is a soft blanket filled with down feathers,  goose, duck feathers, wool, silk, or synthetic filling

What’s the Difference Between a Duvet and a Comforter? 

A duvet is a soft blanket filled with down feathers,  goose, duck feathers, wool, silk, or synthetic filling. They come in various sizes from twin to emperor size and the tog rating determines its warmth. You could have a slim summer duvet and a thicker duvet for the winter months. 

A comforter is similar to a duvet but tends to be thinner. It is quilted or fluffy and available in various colors and patterns. A duvet cover protects the duvet and changes the style of your bedding with different colors and patterns. 

What Is a Duvet?

A duvet is a type of bedding that originated in Europe. It looks like a fabric pocket filled with feathers, wool, silk, or synthetic material that covers the entire bed. It keeps you warm as you sleep and can add a colorful element to your bedroom aesthetic as duvet covers come in a multitude of colors and patterns. 

Duvet Sizes

TOG (Thermal Overall Grade) Ratings 

Duvet Construction

The construction of the duvet is important to its comfort and longevity. It must be stitched in a way that keeps the filling intact as you move the duvet around in your sleep and when it’s removed and washed. 

• Baffle Box: checkerboard construction that holds filling in place 
• Quilt Stitching: same appearance as baffle box but without the additional fabric strips used to reinforce the stitching 
• Channel: parallel stitching (straight lines instead of a checkerboard) so the filling can be redistributed to colder areas on your body  
• Gusset: walls of fabric around the perimeter of the duvet in baffle stitching creates a more luxurious feel

Duvet Fillings

Fill Power 

Duvet Covers

• Cotton is breathable, machine washable, and affordable, look for a 300 thread count  
• Polyester is synthetic yet affordable, is durable but may sleep hot
• The cotton-poly blend is a little more breathable than polyester yet still affordable and durable 

What Is a Duvet Cover? 

The beauty and fun of using a duvet are that you get to play around with the style of top sheet, covers, and pillowcases. Bedding sets typically include a duvet cover and pillowcases in various colors and patterns that can easily be removed and washed. The duvet cover protects the duvet from dirt and spillage. Duvets and comforters differ in this respect because the outer cover of the duvet can be so easily changed. Whereas a comforter typically does not need a changeable cover. 

What Is a Comforter?

A comforter is additional blankets that most people use as a top blanket on the bed. Typically soft and fluffy, it adds warmth to winter nights and can be used as a couch blanket too. Comforters are like quilts in their stitching that look like patchwork or embroidery. A comforter set can range from minimalist to ornate design and can include bed shams and pillows to complete the look. Some comforters are dry clean only due to their fabric and construction. Check the label for cleaning instructions. Comforters usually provide less warmth than duvets but a bed in a bag and comforter set could provide premium comfort when combined, especially if you live in a colder climate.  

Does a Comforter Need a Cover?

A comforter is designed to not need a cover. Unlike a duvet that is typically plain white in color, a comforter is designed with a built-in cover that can be colorful to match any aesthetic. Most comforters are thin enough to be machine washable but be mindful of the fabric and watch for dry clean only tags.    

washing your duvet or comforter at a low temperature with good quality laundry detergent could extend the durability

How to Wash a Duvet or Comforter 

Sheets blankets, duvet covers, pillowcases, and most bedding are usually thrown into the washer at high temperatures. But, washing your duvet or comforter at a low temperature with good quality laundry detergent could extend the durability of your duvet or comforter. Air dry if possible so as not to cause shrinkage or damage to the shape in a dryer. 

Duvet Vs Comforter: Pros and Cons 

Conclusion  

When it comes to duvets vs comforters the winner is determined by your bedroom climate, personal taste, and sleep style. Those who feel the cold at night may prefer a duvet over a comforter. Those who sleep hot may enjoy the cooling relief of a slim comforter. If you live in a cold climate, a duvet with a comforter as a top blanket provides much warmth and coziness. Duvets and comforters are in many colors and patterns, sizes, and materials. They can be plain or elaborate in design so both have positive attributes but the universal element of duvets and comforters is their ability to add a comfortable and luxurious touch to your bedroom.  Weighted blankets are yet another option to consider as well.  How do weighted blankets work?  Well they are blankets packed with a heavy filler material. The best weighted blankets distribute their filling evenly, spreading the weight throughout the blanket for consistent, soothing comfort. So they offer some addition benefits beyond what tradition duvets or comforters do.