Duvet vs. Comforter: Which Bed Cover Should You Choose?
There's a question many of us face at some point in our lives: Should I buy a duvet or a comforter? Since they both essentially serve the same purpose, it's easy to assume that they have the same benefits.
So what's the difference between a duvet and a comforter? A duvet is a fluffy insert placed inside a separate cover, while a comforter is a flatter, stand-alone cover. Here's everything you need to know about the duvet vs. comforter debate and how to decide which one is best for you.
What is a Duvet Cover?
A duvet cover is a flat sleeve constructed with a button, stud or zipper closure to protect the insert from stains. Duvets are traditionally stuffed with a down comforter or another bedding insert filled with wool, feathers or synthetic fibers.
Benefits of a Duvet
- Because the insert doesn't touch your skin, you only need to wash it occasionally. It's much easier to wash the cover than the insert itself.
- You can play around with your bedding theme and style as often as you like by switching out the duvet cover and pillowcase set.
- Duvets have little overhang, which provides a neat, crisp aesthetic.
- You don't need to use a flat sheet underneath if you don't want to.
Other Considerations
- You'll need to purchase the cover separately from the duvet.
- It can take practice to change the duvet cover (see our tips below).
How to Put on a Duvet Cover
Here's the easiest way to put on your duvet cover:
- Step 1: Turn your duvet cover inside out, then place it on top of your bed (the opening should face the head of the bed).
- Step 2: Lay your duvet insert on top of the duvet cover, then line up the corners.
- Step 3: Pinch the corners of both the insert and cover and flip the cover right-side out.
- Step 4: Starting at the top corner, stuff and adjust the insert inside the cover.
- Step 5: Hold up the duvet cover and shake it a few times until the insert is evenly distributed within.
- Step 6: Button or zip up the duvet cover, then give it a good fluff.
Best Types of Duvet Covers
The material you choose for your duvet cover will depend on the season, your sleeping style, and health and environmental considerations.
Linen
This is the best duvet cover for summer because it's a very breathable material. And thanks to its natural fibers that help regulate temperature, there's no need to put it away in cooler seasons. A linen duvet cover also has a relaxed aesthetic that ages beautifully.
Cotton
A cotton duvet cover is an easy-to-maintain classic that's usually budget-friendly while still offering a crisp, polished look that resists wrinkles. It's versatile too—cotton percale is well-suited for hot sleepers while a sateen weave caters to all types of snoozers.
Bamboo
Bamboo is a sustainable favorite that's both highly durable and luxuriously soft. It's also moisture-wicking and hypoallergenic, making it ideal for hot sleepers and people with skin sensitivities.
How to Wash a Duvet
Remove your duvet cover first to wash separately. Set your washer to a gentle, warm-water cycle, then pour in a mild detergent and spread out the duvet insert inside to ensure a thorough cleaning. After washing, feel free to air out your duvet on a clothesline or drying rack. You'll want to fluff it periodically to prevent lumps from forming if you're machine drying.
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What is a Comforter?
This thick bedding cover comes quilted and traditionally filled with down, though wool batting and silk are often used as well..Benefits of a Comforter
- It's ready to throw on your bed without adding a cover.
- The density and plushness add a layered, textural effect to your bedding.
- You can often buy a comforter in a set with matching pillows.
Other Considerations
- It can be too warm for those who sleep hot.
- You'll usually need a flat sheet underneath the comforter if you want to prolong time between washes.
- It's often too bulky for household washing machines, so it needs to be dry-cleaned or taken to a laundromat.
- It may flatten over time.
Best Types of Comforters
There are two main types of comforters to choose from.
Down Comforter
These light fibers sourced from ducks and geese keep you warm and cozy throughout the year. This is the best comforter for cold months while still offering breathability in the summer.
Down Alternative Comforter
This is less likely to irritate allergies as it's often made with cotton or synthetic materials, such as polyester. It mimics down's fluffiness and is easy to wash.
How to Wash a Comforter
Frequently laundering your comforter can cause it to flatten, so getting it dry-cleaned on a schedule (two to three times per year) is ideal. An extra-large front-loading washer will likely accommodate its bulkiness if dry-cleaning isn't in your budget. Use a gentle cycle—a delicate setting, if possible—and mild detergent. Once it's done, be sure to set your dryer on a low setting and shake the comforter intermittently to evenly distribute the filling.
Can You Put a Comforter Inside of a Duvet Cover?
While you don't need a comforter cover, you can put your comforter inside a duvet cover if you want to change the look of your bedding without buying an additional insert. Make sure to compare measurements before purchasing to guarantee a clean, proper fit.
Deciding on the Right Bed Cover for You
Ultimately, the duvet vs. comforter choice comes down to your priorities. Do you like to redecorate your bedroom frequently? In that case, a duvet is the better option because you can easily change out the cover. Do you like to stay warm and toasty at night? Then a comforter might be the better choice. Or maybe you'd like to use a duvet in summer and a comforter in winter. Whatever you decide, we've got you covered.
Bedding Size Chart
Regardless of your bed cover of choice, it's important to purchase the proper size duvet or comforter. Here's a breakdown of standard bed sizes and their respective measurements:
Twin: 38 inches x 75 inches
Full: 54 inches x 80 inches
Queen: 60 inches x 80 inches
King: 76 inches x 80 inches
California King: 72 inches x 84 inches
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