Choosing a type of doona isn’t just about style—it’s about comfort, too.
Key Takeaways
- When choosing a doona, consider factors like filling type, quilt weight, size, and warmth level to match your sleep preferences and the season.
- The type of filling you choose impacts comfort, warmth, and breathability. Options range from breathable bamboo and soft cotton to luxurious down and insulating wool.
- The higher the GSM, the warmer the quilt, which is ideal for colder months, while lower GSM options are perfect for summer or mid-season use.
Australia’s climate can be unpredictable. One day it’s warm, the next it’s chilly, and when winter hits, the temperature drop can be intense. That’s where the right quilt makes all the difference.
A good doona keeps you comfortable through the seasons, helping you sleep soundly no matter the weather. But with so many options—microfibre, goose down, Australian wool—picking the perfect one can feel overwhelming.
Whether you’re prepping for winter or looking for breathable bedding, this guide will walk you through how to choose a doona that suits your sleep style. Or, jump ahead to explore the pros and cons of different quilt fillings.
Jump to a section:
- Quilts vs Doonas vs Duvet Covers
- Factors in Choosing Your Doona Filling
- Types of Doonas
- Tips For Taking Care of Your Doona
- Choosing Your Doona
- FAQs
Quilts vs Doonas vs Duvet Covers
Let’s clear things up: Quilts, doonas, duvets, and comforters are all the same thing. The term just depends on where you are in the world.
- Quilt: In many countries, including New Zealand, “quilt” is simply another word for doona or duvet.
- Doona: The word doona is what we Australians call a comforter, a quilt and a duvet. It’s believed to come from the Danish word dyne, meaning down feathers. Originally a trademark of bedding brand Tontine, “doona” is now an everyday word in Australia.
- Duvet: Borrowed from the French word for down, “duvet” is the preferred term in Europe, though it’s less common in Australia, the US, and the UK.
No matter what you call it, they all serve the same purpose—keeping you cosy all night long. Brits say duvet, Americans say comforter, and here in Australia, we’ll always call it a doona.
Factors in Choosing Your Doona Filling
Not all doonas are created equal, and finding the right one depends on a few key factors. Whether you’re wondering what type of doona is best for winter warmth or year-round comfort, here’s what to consider before making your pick.
Quilt Size
Unfortunately, picking the right quilt size isn’t as straightforward as matching it to your mattress. Australian quilt sizes aren’t the same as those in other countries, so it’s always worth double-checking your measurements—especially if you’re buying from international brands like Ikea.
Even locally, sizing can vary between brands. Most follow standard dimensions, but some don’t, so always check the label before you buy.
| Size | Width (cm) | Length (cm) |
| Single | 140 | 210 |
| Double | 180 | 210 |
| Queen | 210 | 210 |
| King | 245 | 210 |
| Super King | 270 | 240 |
Thinking about going bigger? Upsizing your doona can mean better coverage, extra cosiness, and tug-of-war battles if you’re sharing the bed.
Warmth
Not all doonas feel the same—some are built for warmth, while others keep things airy and light. The right choice depends on the filling, its quality, and sometimes its weight.
For instance, down and wool are excellent insulators, perfect for chilly nights. Microfibre and cotton, on the other hand, offer better airflow, making them great for year-round comfort. If you and your partner have different sleep temperatures, a dual warmth doona—designed with varying warmth levels on each side—will meet both of your needs.
In Australia, quilts are usually labelled cool, warm, or super warm. Some also use Thermal Overall Grade (or TOG): a lower rating (1–4 TOG) is ideal for summer, while a higher one (13.5–15 TOG) is best for those frosty winter nights.
Quilt Weight
A doona’s weight isn’t just about warmth—it also affects how it feels on your body. Some people love the cosy, cocooned feeling of a heavier quilt, while others prefer something light and airy.
Quilt weight is measured in GSM (grams per square metre), which refers to the density of the filling. A higher GSM means a thicker, warmer quilt, while a lower GSM is better for breathability and warm nights. Choosing the right weight can make a big difference in comfort, especially in Australia’s changing seasons.
Here’s a quick guide to help you pick the right GSM for the weather:
| Season | Recommended GSM | Best For |
| Summer | 150–250 | Hot sleepers, warm climates, and those who prefer a cooling quilt |
| Mid-Season (Autumn and Spring) | 300–450 | Year-round comfort in moderate climates |
| Winter | 500+ | Cold sleepers and chilly winter nights |
If you want a doona that works across multiple seasons, consider layering with a lightweight quilt in summer and swapping to a higher GSM in winter. Some quilts also come in an all-seasons design, allowing you to adjust the warmth by adding or removing layers.
Budget
While we always recommend investing in quality, doonas come in a range of prices to suit different budgets.
Synthetic options, like microfibre and cotton blends, are generally more affordable and easy to care for. Mid-range options, such as wool or duck down, offer a balance of warmth, breathability, and durability. If you’re after something ultra-luxurious, an all-natural silk quilt provides a lightweight yet cosy feel, perfect for year-round comfort. For the ultimate in insulation and softness, premium goose down doonas come with a higher price tag but deliver exceptional warmth and longevity.
Spending a little more upfront can pay off in the long run, giving you a doona that stays cosy and comfortable for years.
Sleeping Partner
Sharing a doona isn’t always smooth sailing, especially when you sleep with your partner. If one of you sleeps hot while the other runs cold, the right filling can make all the difference.
Wool is a great option since it naturally regulates temperature, keeping both sleepers comfortable throughout the night. A dual-weight doona, designed with different warmth levels on each side, is another clever fix for mismatched sleep preferences. If overheating is a concern, a cooling quilt made from breathable, moisture-wicking materials like silk or bamboo can help keep night sweats at bay while still offering cosy comfort.
Sharing your doona? If one of you sleeps hot while the other runs cold, consider a temperature-regulating filling like wool or a dual-weight doona that caters to both.
By keeping these factors in mind, you’ll be well on your way to finding a doona that suits your sleep style perfectly.
Types of Doonas
Choosing the right doona filling can make all the difference in your sleep comfort. Whether you’re after something warm and cosy or breathable and light, here are some of the most popular options—including the best doona for all seasons.
Feather and Down Quilts
If luxury had a name, it would be down. Sourced from ducks and geese, down is the ultra-soft, fluffy layer that keeps these birds warm in the wild. It’s nature’s high-performance insulation—lightweight yet incredible at trapping heat.
Feathers, on the other hand, are more structured and provide a bit more weight. Many doonas combine feather with down for a balanced feel that’s warm yet supportive.
Pros:
✅ Lightweight yet great at trapping heat
✅ Soft, fluffy, and breathable
✅ Long-lasting with proper care
Cons:
❌ Can be pricey, especially high-quality down
❌ Requires dry cleaning or careful washing
❌ May not suit allergy sufferers unless specially treated
Pure Goose Down Quilt
Goose down is often considered the crème de la crème of quilt fillings. Thanks to its larger down clusters, it provides superior insulation while staying airy and cloud-like. It’s an investment, but if you’re after peak cosiness, it’s worth every dollar.
Pros:
✅ Superior warmth with minimal weight
✅ Extra soft and lofty feel
✅ Highly durable with the right care
Cons:
❌ More expensive than duck down or blended options
❌ Typically dry-clean only
❌ Can be too warm for hot sleepers
Wool Quilts
Australian wool isn’t just soft—it’s naturally temperature-regulating, making it perfect for both chilly winters and balmy summer nights. Wool also wicks moisture and is hypoallergenic, so it’s a great choice for allergy sufferers.
Pros:
✅ Regulates body temperature year-round
✅ Moisture-wicking and hypoallergenic
✅ Durable and long-lasting
Cons:
❌ Heavier than down or synthetic quilts
❌ Some require dry cleaning
❌ Can have a distinct wool scent initially
Microfibre, Cotton, and Synthetic Quilts
Looking for an easy-care option? Microfibre, cotton, and other synthetic quilts are lightweight, breathable, and many are machine washable—no dry-cleaning drama here. They have a different feel than the natural gang (down and wool) but are functional and a great pick for budget-conscious or eco-friendly sleepers.
Pros:
✅ Affordable and widely available
✅ Machine washable and quick-drying
✅ Lightweight and breathable
Cons:
❌ May not provide the same plush feel as natural fillings
❌ Can wear out faster over time
❌ Some synthetic options trap heat more than they regulate it
Bamboo, Silk, and Specialty Quilts
Bamboo and silk quilts bring a touch of luxury with added benefits. They’re naturally antibacterial, gentle on sensitive skin, and excellent at regulating temperature. What’s more is bamboo, in particular, is ultra-sustainable and perfect for warmer climates.
Pros:
✅ Antibacterial and great for sensitive skin
✅ Excellent for warm climates or hot sleepers
✅ Bamboo is an eco-friendly choice
Cons:
❌ Silk quilts can be expensive
❌ Not always as warm as wool or down
❌ Care instructions vary—some need extra gentle handling
Tips For Taking Care of Your Doona
A well-cared-for doona can last at least five years—longer if it’s a high-quality one. Here’s how to keep yours in top shape.
1. Always Use a Cover
A doona cover isn’t just for style—it protects the filling from dust, spills, and wear. Washing the cover regularly means less frequent deep cleaning for your quilt.
2. Air It Out
Fresh air helps maintain loft and freshness. Hang your doona outside occasionally (in the shade for down and wool) to keep it feeling light and breathable.
3. Follow the Care Instructions
Tempted to wash your doona in the bathtub? Unless you fancy stomping on it like you’re crushing grapes, it’s best to follow the label’s instructions. Some quilts need dry cleaning, while others can go in the washing machine.
Choosing Your Doona
The idea of a one-size-fits-all quilt for the whole year? Not exactly ideal. With Australia’s changing seasons, your bedding should adapt just like you do.
At Ecosa, we’ve made it easy to find the right quilt for every time of year. Invest in our lightweight quilt for summer or our mid-season quilt for year-round comfort. When winter rolls around, simply clip them together for extra warmth—thanks to our clip and convert design. Our quilts come with convenient poppers that secure into the corners of our duvet covers for a snug, slip-free fit, so you won’t have to deal with shifting or bunching.
Plus, with sizes ranging from single to super king, everyone can sleep snug—no matter their bed size. You can get them in our Ecosa shop!
FAQs
What is the best filling for warmth in doona?
Feather quilts, especially those with a high-quality filling, are often the best option for the warmest embrace, particularly for cold sleepers.
They provide excellent insulation, making them ideal for winter quilt needs. Checking the warmth rating or tog can help you better understand how toasty it will be.
What is the best quilt filling for hot sleepers?
Natural fibre quilts like bamboo blankets would especially benefit hot sleepers.
Bamboo is known for its ability to regulate body temperature well. It’s like a summer quilt designed to keep you cool.
It’s also gentle on the skin and perfect for allergy patients fearful of dust mites.
What is the best doona made of?
Your personal preference will determine which type of doona is best.
If you want to combine luxury and warmth, feather quilts with high-quality stuffing are ideal.
Bamboo blankets or other natural fibre options are ideal if you value being ecofriendly and temperature regulation.
Check the care guidelines to ensure longevity.
What does 500 GSM mean for quilts?
500 GSM (grams per square metre) refers to the density of the quilt filling.
In a buying guide context, a higher GSM typically means the quilt is denser and usually warmer.
A 500 GSM quilt, for example, offers a warmth suitable for cooler climates or those who prefer a toasty bed.
When considering quilt sizes or looking for a new quilt, checking the GSM can be crucial in determining its warmth.
How do you wash a doona?
Most microfibre quilts and some natural-fibre ones are machine washable—but is your washing machine big enough? If you plan to wash your doona often, especially for allergy reasons, regular trips to the laundromat can add up in both time and money.
Feather and down quilts, along with some other materials, usually require dry cleaning, which means extra care and cost. Always check the care label before you commit!