Duvet or Comforter: Which Is Better?

People often get confused between a duvet and comforter. While both are similar and often used interchangeably, there are certain factors that differentiate them.

If you want to know which bedding is right for your bed, you should be aware of their differences, only then you can sleep in comfort.

In this article, we are providing all the information that will equip you with all the information you need to know about your bedspread.

Continue reading further to know what to consider before you purchase one for your bed.

What is a Comforter?

What is a comforter, and how does it differ from a duvet? Well, here is the answer. A comforter is a single piece with less stuffing than duvets. It is less fluffy, flat, and may need an extra layer of blanket bedding.

A comforter comes quilted with built-in stuffing that is evenly distributed. It is usually filled with synthetic fibers like polyester or cotton blends. However, you may also find a few comforters filled with down or feathers.

Comforters come in decorative design sets with coordinating pieces like pillows, sheets, and matching curtains. You can choose one accordingly and style your bedroom easily and conveniently.

You may have your comforter as a top layer with additional sheets or blankets underneath it to give a layered look. It is ready to use blanket right out of the bag. You do not have to cover it or pair it with additional accessories. And the best part, it is easy to wash and you can either hang them to dry or machine dry with a low and gentle setting.

However, one should always remember that not all comforters are washing machine-safe. Check for the preferred method of washing at the time of purchase itself. Some of these that are not for dry washing may seem to be bulkier to wash and difficult to squeeze.

What is a Duvet?

You might be wondering what a duvet is! There might be some confusion as people in the US often refer to a duvet as a comforter. Do not worry! We will clear the air for you. A duvet is a soft blanket filled with down or other synthetic materials like feathers or wool.

Unlike comforters, duvets are not quilted. Hence, they look less finished. Duvets come in two pieces and are sold separately – the blanket and the duvet cover. All you have to do is insert the duvet in the duvet cover. You always have a choice to mix and match them with your bedding to add an aesthetic touch to your bed.

Duvets are usually fluffier and lightweight than comforters. They are warm, and you do not need additional layers of sheets or blankets under them. They are easy to wash, and you do not have to wash them regularly, just the cover. The duvets are for dry clean only.

Duvets tend to be expensive than comforters. Although they are versatile for styling, choosing the coverlet, inserting, and removing them every time can be a fuss.

The Main Difference Between a Comforter and a Duvet

Here are the significant differences between a duvet and a comforter. These parameters will help the user to make an informed decision for buying. Make sure you consider these points without fail:

Duvets Vs. Comforters:

Duvet	Comforter
Duvet comes in two separate pieces – an insert and a cover.	A comforter is a single piece of bedding.
Duvets are fluffier than comforters with extra fiber filling.	Comforters are flatter and have comparatively less fiber filling than duvets.
Duvets are warm enough and can be a great option in cold winter months.	Comforters may not be warm enough, and hence you will need extra layers of sheets underneath them.
Duvets are usually light-coloured or plain white.	Comforters are decorative blankets that come in a wide variety of colours, styles, designs, and patterns.
You can decorate your duvets with colourful duvet covers.	Comforters do not require any cover, unlike duvets. Instead, you only need a top sheet.
Duvets are easy to wash. Since the duvets come inserted in a duvet cover, you do not necessarily have to clean them. Instead, you can only wash the duvet cover.	Comforters are easy to clean. However, you should wash them frequently.
The duvet cover is easily machine washable, and the duvets are usually for dry cleaning.	Depending on the fabric filling, they can be either machine washable or require dry cleaning.
Duvets are usually sold as individual pieces.	Comforters are often sold as a bedding set or sometimes, individually.

 Let us discuss further about each characteristic feature in detail. This will give you a fair idea of which one to consider for your bedding.

1. Comfort

All of us love to enjoy the comfort while sleeping and cuddle with blankets in the bed. If comfort is what you are looking for, then both options are good and worth considering. However, if you want a sophisticated cover to top your bedding with, a duvet will fulfil the purpose. Since comforters mostly contain the polyester filling, a duvet could be the one that you are looking for to enhance your comfort.

To give your bedding a customized look and make it extra warm, you can always choose from the different materials of the duvet insert and the covers. This not only guarantees to freshen up the look of your bed but keeps you warm.

2. Duvet Sizes And Comforter Sizes

Let us consider the sizes of both the duvets and comforters. No doubt, duvets look fluffy, but comforters are larger in size than their counterparts. While duvets fit exactly the size of your bed, comforters keep hanging over the sides of your bed.

Although both comforters and duvets are available in the size of every mattress, the dimensions may differ for each size. Below is a chart to help you compare their sizes and choose the best fit for your bed.

Size	Duvet	Comforter
Twin/Twin XL	64” x 89” to 70” x 88”	66” x 86” to 68” x 88”
Full/Double	80” x 89” to 90” x 94”	81” x 86” to 84” x 88”
Queen	88” x 90” to 90” x 94”	86” x 96” to 88” X 100”
King/Cal King	104” x 90” to 108” x 94”	102” x 88” to 110” x 98”

You can use the above table as a specification manual to purchase the duvets or comforters according to the size of your mattress. Always choose one accordingly. If the mattress is thicker, try considering a duvet or comforter with recommended dimensions.

3. Filling

The other crucial consideration for choosing the right product is the filling. While duvets come with synthetic fillings or down feathers, comforters have an inbuilt filling of natural fibers like cotton or synthetic fibers like polyester.

You can choose from either a duvet or a comforter. You have additional options to select for a duvet cover, like the one with a natural filling, such as down, wool, etc.

Mostly, duvets are fluffier than comforters because of the extra filling. You do not have to bother about the filling because it comes stitched inside with even distribution. This does not allow it to clump together one side or move.

4. Warmth and Loft

Since comforters come with less filling than duvets, they are thinner and less warm than the alternatives. Therefore, many people in the colder regions use them in conjunction with sheets, quilts, or top layers.

In contrast to the above, duvets are fluffier, loftier, and also warm. You do not require additional layers of blankets or sheets and lie fitted on the top of your bedding.

5. Cleaning

Let us talk about cleaning. Needless to say, duvets are hands down, the best. Since they come inserted in a duvet cover, you do not necessarily have to clean them. Instead, you can only wash the cover by simply throwing it in the washing machine. The duvet does not necessarily require frequent washing.

As opposed to the above, most comforters are not machine washable and require dry cleaning only. Any small spills on the comforter can be a hassle when cleaning. Besides that, you have to use an extra sheet on the comforter to prevent the stains of sweat or oil on them. Hence, they require frequent washing to ensure proper hygiene of the product.

6.  Personal Style

If we talk about personal styling, you can choose one depending on your preferences. If you want your bed to have a multi-layered and decorative look, a comforter is the best option. They hang along the sides of the bed, and you can match them with your pillow covers and sheets. If you are looking for having a uniform design, choose from the various decorative and matching sets.

Alternatively, if you prefer having a simple and sober look for your bed and often change the style with versatility, then a duvet is all you need. Since it mostly comes in white colour, you can choose the cover matching your bedding. A duvet comes in the exact size fitting your bed and does not hang to the sides. Also, they are fluffier, and one does not need an extra sheet on the top.

7. Durability

Which is more durable? A duvet or comforter? Well, many people argue to this question saying that duvets are the more durable with an extra cost. Since they come with a replaceable cover, they have a longer shelf life. You can switch the style as and when needed by replacing the duvet cover. This gives your duvet a brand-new look and elevates your bedding elegance. Moreover, the cover offers a layer of protection to your duvet.

On the other hand, comforters have a limited life span. In case of any damage, you may have to replace the comforter with a new one.

8. Availability

The availability of both duvets and comforters is dependent on the country you are living in. While comforters are more popular in the USA, most European and Asian countries duvets. Most renowned brands offer both comforters, duvets, and duvet covers. These days, most bedding manufacturers include duvet covers also with their sheet sets.

9. Ease of Use

When it comes to ease of use, comforters are undoubtedly the go-to products. Remove the packing, and they are ready to use. Since it is single-piece bedding, no shuffling of covers or outer layers. Moreover, the inbuilt filling comes evenly distributed, and you do not have to stress over it.

The only downside to duvets is the cover. Choosing and replacing the cover every time can be a little painful to the sleeper. To ensure the even loft of the duvet inside the cover, you will have to do a little bit of shaking. Moreover, if you fail to close the ends with the buttons or ties, the duvet might not sit properly inside and keeps roaming inside. It may even get tangles inside, forming a lump on one side. Fortunately, most duvet covers come with convenient ties.

10. Cost

Coming to the cost, comforters are comparatively cheaper than duvets. The price of both the product varies accordingly, depending on the size, design, filling, etc.

While comforters are often sold as a part of bedding sets, duvets come in two pieces and are hence, sold separately. Duvets come expensive because of this. Purchasing duvets and their covers separately can cost you more than comforters that come in a single piece.

Duvet Vs. Comforter: Which is Better?

Choosing which type of bedding is suitable for you is ultimately your decision based on your personal choices and preferences. While a comforter is a single piece that is ready to use, a duvet comes in two separate pieces and more fluffier than a comforter.

You should always choose a comforter if the below points are your considerations:

• When you wish to have something very simple and ready to use.
• When you want a complete set that matches your beddings.
• When you prefer having a layered look to your bedding.

You should always choose a comforter if the below points are your considerations:

• When you wish to have something that is easy to maintain and clean.
• When you want versatile bedding that you can decorate accordingly.
• When you prefer having a fluffy look to your bedding.

What is a Duvet Cover?

As mentioned earlier, a duvet cover is a protective sheet to cover your duvet. It is almost similar to the pillowcase of your pillow. Besides protecting your duvet, the cover gives an aesthetic look to your bedding. All you have to do is choose from a wide variety of colours, designs, patterns, and styles to match your bedding. The upside to it is it is easily washable, most importantly, machine washable. Above all, they are so compact that you can store them easily in your cupboards.

Can you Use a Comforter as a Duvet?

Ideally, both comforter and duvet are for the same purpose – to keep you warm inside the bed. They are top-layer bedding.

Can you Use a Comforter Cover?

Comforters are essentially ready to use blankets. They usually come in a wide range of decorative designs that not only look stunning but are easy to maintain, too. You do not need any cover them. However, if you still want to use it to ease your maintenance, you can.

Is a Duvet a Blanket?

The blanket is generally an umbrella term, referring to a covering that you use on the top of the bed to keep you warm. However, some people refer to duvets as blankets. A duvet contains synthetic materials or down feathers and is meant for the cold winter months.

Which is Better, a Duvet or a Quilt?

While it can be tricky for us to answer which one is better, it primarily depends on the preferences of the user. Choose the one that suits your bedding, adding an aesthetic look to your bed. Since quilts are thinner than duvets, they work better for the summer months. On the other hand, duvets are comparatively heavy and contain feathers, which can stir up allergies for some people. You can choose either of them based on your needs and preferences.

How To Wash A Comforter Or Duvet?

Both comforter and duvet have different washing techniques for cleaning them. It is essential to refer to the label or the guidelines regarding the washing. Double-check before you start washing them.

Not all comforters are machine washable. Depending on the fabrics used, you may either have to put them in the washing machine or prefer dry cleaning. When washing the comforters in washers, adjust the unit to a low and gentle setting.

On the other hand, duvets are for dry clean only. However, you do not have to wash them too often. Remove the cover and just throw it in your washing machine.

How To Use A Duvet Cover?

Using a duvet cover is very easy. It is similar to your pillow cover. If you are unsure how to use a duvet cover or probably using it for the first time, follow the steps below.

Step one: Firstly, open the packaging of the duvet cover. Now, turn it inside out on the bed with the opening facing the foot of your bed.

Step two: Now, place your duvet insert on top of the cover.

Step three: Starting from the top, roll the insert and the duvet cover as one. It should head towards the foot of your bed.

Step four: After that, invert the duvet cover around the sides of the bundle you just created. 

Step five: After inverting, close the duvet cover with the buttons, or ties present on the cover.

Step six: Now, unroll the bundle!

Conclusion:

I hope the duvet vs. comforter debate cleared all your doubts. The differences, as discussed above, should make your struggle to choose the best option for your bed an easy one. Despite having some similarities, they both increase the aesthetical appeal of your bed. Hence, select the one that is a perfect fit for your preferences.

Leave us a comment below to let us know your choice. Write to us if you find this article informative and helpful. Do not forget to add your inputs to the same and let us know if you need more information. We would love to hear from you.