Quilts, Coverlets, Comforters, and Duvets: How to Choose

When it comes to bedding, choosing the “right” top layer comes down to which features you prefer and how warm you like to be when you sleep—the core options are quilt, coverlet, comforter, or duvet insert. We’ll explain each of the options here, so you can choose your ideal bedding top layer.

When deciding among quilts, coverlets, comforters, and duvet inserts, consider these three main points:

What's the Difference in Bedding Construction and Material?

When deciding between quilts versus coverlets, or duvet inserts versus comforters, it may help to understand the materials or construction techniques for each bedding type.

Down vs. Down Alternative Fill

Comforters and Duvet Inserts Have Fill

  • Comforters and duvet inserts are stuffed with lofty down or down alternative fill.
  • Stitching holds the comforter or duvet insert fill in place for even warmth and to prevent bunching.
  • These pieces are some of the warmest options in bedding top layers.
  • Our comforters and duvet inserts are crafted with outer shells made of soft cotton.
  • The fill inside comforters and duvets creates a puffy and inviting appearance.
  • A range of fill options allows you to choose the ideal weight and warmth level.

Quilts and Coverlets Have No Fill

  • Quilts are made of top and bottom layers, usually cotton, stitched over a layer of batting for warmth, but no fluffy fill.
  • Stitching secures the quilt’s batting between the two outer layers.
  • Coverlets are a single layer, single length of cotton or other material, without batting or fill inside.
  • Because they have no fill, layering a quilt or coverlet with a blanket or comforter may be necessary in cool weather.

Eco-Friendly Bedding Choices

If you’re into keeping things green, we have good news: you can find eco-friendly bedding options right here. Organic cotton comforters and duvet inserts are crafted with 100% organic cotton shells and filled with ethically sourced, RDS-certified down. If you prefer down-free bedding, our down alternative comforters are made with a lightweight, synthetic fill that mimics down’s best qualities. Other options, such as TENCEL™ or bamboo blends, are earth-friendly shell materials that look gorgeous and feel great.

Which Best Suits Your Decor Style?

Do you prefer simple styling, or do you gravitate toward more opulent looks? Construction techniques and material options come into play here, too.

  • Both quilts and coverlets are polished bed toppers that offer a clean, smooth look.
  • Quilts are available in the classic patchwork style or featuring intricate stitch designs, colorful prints, or embroidered or appliqué details.
  • Coverlets may display simple to detailed stitching or elegant matelassé texture.
  • Comforters and duvet inserts are perfect for a plush, inviting surface that looks like it’s straight out of an interior design magazine.
  • Comforters come in solid colors, classic prints, and patterns that range from pretty florals and elegant medallions to modern stripes and whimsical critters.
  • Duvet inserts are usually plain white—a duvet cover is used to personalize the bedding, and you can change the look as often as you’d like.

Is the Bedding Machine-Washable?

While sheets should be laundered weekly, most top bedding layers are washed seasonally (more is fine, if necessary). Whether quilt or comforter, coverlet or duvet, laundering is an important consideration. Some may be machine washable, while others require a dry cleaner. Most of our quilts, coverlets, comforters, and duvet inserts are machine washable—for the best results, always follow the care instructions included with your purchase.

Duvet Inserts Pair With Duvet Covers

When it comes to washability, duvet inserts offer a big advantage: while the comforter, quilt, or coverlet are one-piece bedding items, a duvet insert is paired with a cover that acts as protection against spills, soil, and damage. Duvet covers let you swap the look of the bedroom in a snap, too. (Duvet covers also work for comforters, and you’ll get a slip- and bunch-free fit because all of our duvet inserts and solid comforters are constructed with handy loops for a secure hold.)

Quilts May Be More Delicate

Our quilts are carefully crafted for quality and durability, but some styles may be more delicate than others. When washing quilts, styles with piecework, appliqué, or embroidery may require special attention or gentle laundering techniques.

What’s Your Preferred Sleep Temperature?

Are You a Hot Sleeper?

If you’re often too warm at night, or if you are looking for a lightweight layer for summertime comfort, you may prefer a quilt or coverlet. Keep cool when you choose a lightweight comforter or duvet insert with a breathable cotton or TENCEL™ Lyocell shell—these materials offer better air circulation, so you stay cool and comfy all night. Leave a folded blanket at the foot of the bed if you tend to fall asleep warm but wake up chilly in the middle of the night.

Are You a Cold Sleeper?

If you are a cold sleeper who likes to pile on the blankets, you may appreciate the lofty, snuggly, cloudlike warmth of a comforter or duvet insert instead of a lighter weight quilt or coverlet. You can choose your warmth level, and if the ultra-warm option isn’t warm enough, add a blanket beneath the comforter. For those who prefer sleeping with layers of bedding, try pairing a quilt and duvet insert or coverlet and comforter for just-right comfort.

Use Layers for Seasonal Comfort

As the seasons change, you may fall asleep hot but get chilly as the night goes on—or vice versa. Create a comfortable retreat that adjusts to your preferences: in winter, top your sheets with a duvet insert or comforter, then layer a decorative quilt or coverlet over the top for extra warmth. This allows you to kick off layers as necessary through the night. In summer, you may prefer to use a lightweight quilt or coverlet but keep an all-season comforter or duvet insert at the foot of the bed so you can pull it up if you get chilly.

When it comes to the best top bedding pieces, you have plenty of choices. Our favorite options are quilts, duvet inserts, comforters, and coverlets. Choose the single layer that works best for your style and sleep preferences, or combine them for versatility. Explore our other Guides for more bedding tips and tricks.