Duvet vs. Comforter: Pros, Cons and How to Tell the Difference

A comforter is a stuffed, quilted blanket that forms the top layer of bedding and is typically lighter than a duvet. The stuffing in a comforter varies widely—down feathers, down alternatives, synthetic fibers, and regular cotton fill are all common materials.

Comforters are often part of bedding sets, especially bed-in-a-bag products that give you all you need in one matching set. They typically include pillowcases, pillow shams, a flat sheet, a fitted sheet, and a comforter designed to produce a layered look on your bed.

A duvet is a stuffed top layer of bedding that is usually thicker than a comforter and paired with a removable and washable duvet cover that can be buttoned, zipped, or otherwise fastened over the plain duvet insert. The word “duvet” is French for “soft comforter.” Historically, duvets were stuffed with down feathers, but these days there are plenty of fill options, such as microfiber and polyester, for those who are allergic to down. Thanks to the thickness of a duvet, you may find that when using one you have no need for extra blankets.

With duvet covers, you can choose your preferred thread count and your fabric—cotton, percale, linen, and flannel are all popular. If you like to regularly change your bedroom decor, rotating multiple duvet covers over a single duvet insert can add aesthetic variety while keeping the amount of storage space you devote to bedding low.

Duvets and comforters offer different levels of thickness and versatility, so you can choose what appeals most to you. Here are some things to consider about both options.

• Washability: You don’t necessarily need a top sheet when you use a duvet since a duvet cover is easy to wash at home. Although, if you don’t use a top sheet, you might want to wash the duvet cover more often. Keep in mind that if a standard washing machine’s load capacity can’t handle a comforter or a duvet insert, you may need to take it to a professional launderer.
• Decor: Duvets are appealing if you feel like changing your decor often because it’s easier and more cost-effective to swap duvet covers than it is to buy an entirely new comforter or bed-in-a-bag set. You can also put a duvet cover on a comforter if you’d like to change the look of your bed.
• Ease of use: A downside to duvet covers is that they can be difficult to put on and may need to be adjusted frequently as the duvet insert shifts inside the cover. In contrast, a comforter is one single quilted piece of bedding that requires no cover.
• Investment: Keep in mind that duvet inserts and duvet covers are usually sold separately, driving up your initial cost of investment. If your duvet cover is stained or otherwise damaged, replacing it may not be a huge expense; however, replacing a duvet insert can be pricey. Comforters are typically cheaper than a duvet insert and cover, especially if the comforter comes bundled, as is often the case, with a sheet set, making for additional savings. On the other hand, if you like the design of a comforter that’s only sold as part of a set, you may be stuck with extra unwanted bedding.
• Thickness: A comforter’s thinner layer of stuffing may be more ideal than a duvet if you like to be cool while you sleep, or a thick duvet could be perfect if you need more warmth. If you have a comforter but want more insulation, extra blankets like coverlets or quilts can be a good investment.
• Storage: If you have more than one duvet or comforter, storing them can take up quite a bit of space. Comforters, however, are typically not as thick as duvets, meaning you may be able to store more of them.

Here are some things to consider when it comes to how to care for your comforter or a duvet:

1. 1. Read the tags. Closely read the instructions on the tag of your duvet or comforter to determine whether you want to try washing it at home or take it to a professional.
2. 2. Wash them regularly. For optimal hygiene, duvet covers should be washed as often as you wash your sheets and pillowcases. With average use, your duvet insert should need a wash only once or twice a year. Depending on whether you use a top sheet or if you have pets, your comforter may need to be washed once or twice a month or just a few times per year.
3. 3. Check the washing machine’s capacity. With a large duvet or comforter, you should make sure it fits loosely in a washing machine before you start a cycle. If it doesn’t, consider taking it to a laundromat with commercial-sized machines or a professional launderer. Also, keep in mind that washing machines with agitators can tear comforters or become unbalanced with bulky comforters.
4. 4. Avoid fabric softeners. Although you might normally use fabric softeners when doing laundry, they aren’t recommended for down comforters because they tend to stick to the down and could ruin your comforter.
5. 5. Use cold water. If you opt to wash your duvet or comforter at home, select a cold water temperature to prevent shrinkage.

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