Duvet vs. Comforter: How to Choose the Right Bedding

You’re probably aware that duvets and comforters are not the same thing. But do you really know how they’re different?

While they serve similar purposes, these bedding terms should not be used interchangeably. Both duvets and comforters cover a bed, but that is where their similarities end. If you’re in the market for new bedding, this guide will help you understand the differences between a duvet and a comforter, and make the best choice based on your style and preferences. 

What is a Duvet?

There are two parts to a duvet: the insert and the cover. A duvet insert is a quilted blanket that is filled with down, feathers, cotton, wool, or synthetic material. 

A duvet is well-insulated and fluffy, thus it tends to be a bit warmer than other types of bed covers. The insert is quilted but doesn’t typically have a stylish pattern as it’s meant to be hidden inside a cover. 

In terms of size, a duvet more closely matches the exact size of the mattress or barely spills over the edges. 

What is a duvet cover?

A duvet cover is the outer, protective layer that houses the duvet insert. It is lighter than the insert — only a single layer of cotton or linen — and is machine-washable. The duvet cover slips over the insert and closes shut using buttons, fabric ties, or a zipper.

Duvet covers come in many styles, patterns, and colors. They can be easily swapped out if you want to change your look or mirror your bedroom’s aesthetic. 

One thing to keep in mind is that a duvet insert and a duvet cover are typically sold separately. Make sure you check sizes before buying to ensure they fit together snugly. Just like a pillow and a pillowcase, you want a duvet insert that doesn’t shift around inside the cover.

What is a Comforter?

Unlike a duvet, a comforter is one piece and does not have a separate cover. It is typically a quilted fabric with an evenly-distributed filling inside. Since it doesn’t require a cover, a comforter can be thrown on a bed as soon as it’s purchased.

Comforters often come in sets with matching sheets and pillowcases to help you pull off a coordinated look in your bedroom. Comforters are designed to provide a layer of warmth but are not as thick or voluminous as a duvet.

A comforter is also designed to be a bit wider and longer than a duvet, often hanging over the side of a bed.

Types of comforters

The amount and type of filling will determine a comforter’s weight and warmth level. Like duvets, comforter fill is either made of down or a down alternative, such as cotton or polyester. Down comforters are lightweight but also warm. Since it’s so light, down comforters are often more breathable than the alternatives. 

Down alternative comforters are typically machine-washable and hypoallergenic, which is especially important for allergy sufferers. Down alternative comforters also tend to be more affordable than down comforters.

How to Choose Between a Comforter and a Duvet?

Before you settle on a duvet or comforter, it’s important to take stock of the pros and cons of each. Also, consider your own personal circumstances. If you are shopping for kids, the ability to clean a bed cover may be your top priority. Or maybe you seek warmth over everything else.

Here are the characteristics you may prioritize in your search for the perfect bedding, and our recommendation in each category.

Comfort: If you seek bedding that is warm and breathable, a duvet is your best bet. If you prefer bedding that is less billowy and like to be a bit cooler when you sleep, then a comforter is right for you. Also, if you don’t like sleeping with a top sheet, duvets are designed to be paired with just the bottom bed sheet. So if you are constantly trying to locate the top sheet in the middle of the night, a duvet can make things a little less stressful.

Recommendation: Depends on preference

Simplicity: One of the biggest complaints about a duvet has nothing to do with comfort, style, or warmth; it has to do with how challenging it can be to put the duvet cover on. If you thought folding a fitted sheet was difficult, just wait until you have to change a duvet cover! Unlike a comforter, which comes ready to use, a duvet has two pieces that need to be properly arranged and attached before use. This involves turning the cover inside out, lining up the corners, and making sure the insert is distributed evenly. If the insert isn’t properly adjusted, the duvet can be lumpy and uneven. Using a comforter is as simple as removing it from its packaging and tossing it on your bed.

Recommendation: Comforter

Size: Duvets and comforters fit beds of all sizes, just in different ways. Since duvets tend to be smaller — about the same size as the top of the mattress with minimal overhang — they cover less of the bed and can drift while you sleep, especially if you sleep beside someone who likes to steal the bed sheets. If you want to stay fully under the covers, a comforter will give you more bedding to work with. But if you’re more concerned with depth than surface area, duvets tend to be thicker and more snuggly than comforters.

Recommendation: Depends on preference

Ability to clean: One of the biggest advantages of a duvet is that it has a thin, protective cover that can be easily washed. While most comforters are machine-washable, they require a heavier setting and can take a while to wash and dry. Duvet covers are typically made of cotton or linen, so they can be thrown into a normal load. The insert may or may not be machine-washable — down duvets typically aren’t — but since it’s protected by a cover, it won’t need to be washed as often as exposed bedding.

Recommendation: Duvet

Cost: Duvets usually cost a bit more than comforters. But this comes with a caveat because comforters are more difficult to clean and may have to be replaced if stained or ripped, while a duvet cover can be easily replaced as long as the insert isn’t damaged.

Recommendation: Comforter

Storage: Comforters are bulky and take up a lot of storage space, while spare duvet covers are thin, can be easily folded, and don’t take up much space in a closet or a storage bench at the foot of a bed.

Recommendation: Duvet