Duvet? Comforter? Duvet covers? So many bedding terms, and so little time. It’s easy to get lost amidst the number of bed sheet terminology so here, we set out to define and differentiate some of your must-know bedding vocab!
Duvet vs. Comforter: What’s the difference?
What Is a Duvet?
To define a duvet cover, we must first learn what a duvet is. Often confused with the term comforter, a duvet is a lightweight type of bedding that contains thermal insulators. Natural versions of these would be down feathers and wool but synthetic alternatives are also available in the market.
A duvet cover, on the other hand, is a removable cover that protects the duvet and prevents it from getting dirty. A duvet needs not to be washed regularly so a protective cover is necessary to remain hygienic.
While the duvet itself needs dry cleaning to get rid of dirt, the duvet cover is machine washable. Noted for its ease of washing and ease of changing, using a duvet and duvet cover combination makes changing the look of your bedding more convenient. Duvet covers would often have zipper closures which makes getting the inserts in and out much easier.
Duvet covers are not to be confused with the duvet inserts that are placed inside the covers. These are thicker materials that are commonly made with duck down or goose down, and in some cases, weighted blankets are also used as duvet inserts.
What Is a Comforter?
A comforter is a thick blanket filled with synthetic fibre that is stitched together to remain evenly distributed. It is washed alongside the bed and pillowcases to keep it clean, unlike a duvet. Comforters are often paired with blankets to provide more heat in colder weather and top sheets to serve as a protective layer for hygienic purposes.
Duvets in Bedspreads All Around the World
Depending on where you are, the vernacular regarding bedding changes drastically. Here are some terms to get acquainted with that might help you in shopping for your bedding sets.
The word duvet is of French origin meaning “down” referring to the filling inside a duvet. While countries like the United States use the terms comforter and duvet interchangeably, others are more particular in differentiating them.
In Australia, the term doona or doona duvet is more commonly used than the word duvet but it refers to the same thing. Some companies even opt out of using this term when selling their duvet as it comes from a trademarked brand name.
Originally, the term continental quilt was the standardised term for a duvet in Australia following its British English counterpart. To this date, some parts of Australia still use this term.
How to choose the right duvet cover?
When shopping for a new duvet cover, consider the following before checkout:
Material
You can get an organic cotton duvet cover, a bamboo one, or a blend of various materials.
Cotton is a comfortable material that is commonly used in making duvet covers. Take note that when purchasing cotton, thread count matters. A thread count of at least 300 is necessary for a good duvet cover.
For a more luxurious option, some consider Egyptian cotton remarkable for being the softest in the cotton variety.
Duvet covers can also be made from bamboo which is perfect for hotter climates because of its moisture-wicking abilities. This feature prevents the covers from sticking to your skin while you sleep. Additionally, it is hypoallergenic and prevents dust mites and other pathogens from sharing the bed with you. Plus, Bamboo sheet sets are breathable and ultra-soft which makes for a more pleasurable sleep.
Check out: Ecosa’s Bamboo Sheet Set
Check out: Ecosa’s Bamboo Quilt Cover (comes with a 45-day warranty)
RELATED ARTICLE: Bamboo VS Egyptian Cotton – Which Is Better?
Check your bed size.
Duvet cover sets come in all sizes, whether it’s a single bed, a queen size, a king bed, or even a super king size, you can get a bed covering and a blanket duvet for your bedroom. It’s ideal for your down duvets to be slightly larger than your mattress, otherwise, you’d end up fighting with your partner for a good share of the covers.
Durability
Because these covers will be washed regularly, these protective layers must be able to withstand the daily hustle and bustle. Finding durable sheets comes hand in hand with the material of the duvet cover. Choosing high-quality materials such as Egyptian cotton or bamboo will ensure a life span of up to 15 years – provided that you follow manufacturer instructions when cleaning with a washing machine.
Aesthetics
One of the reasons why people opt for duvet covers is the ease of changing the design and colour of the sheets. With a variety of colours and patterns to choose from, duvet covers are a great way to add a personal touch to your bedroom and home decor.
If you choose to check out a duvet, make sure to utilise its perks! Keep your bed clean and dust-free by regularly washing your duvet cover. Prolong its use by choosing a duvet material that doesn’t absorb sweat and repels dust mites like bamboo. Finally, add style and personality to your room by selecting a duvet cover that best suits you!
