When it comes to creating a cozy, inviting bedroom, choosing the right bedding can make all the difference. Duvets and comforters might look similar, but these two types of bedding differ a lot in terms of style, warmth, and construction. Understanding their differences can help you determine which is better suited to your needs and preferences, allowing you to create a stylish and comfortable sleep space that feels like a sanctuary and delivers consistently restful, luxurious sleep.
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Is a Duvet the Same as a Comforter?
The terms “duvet” and “comforter” are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same, and choosing the right bed topper for your bed is essential. A duvet is a washable cover with a plush insert, while a comforter combines the cover and the insert into one.
Each has benefits and drawbacks, and in many cases, your personal preference will determine which one you opt for.
What is a Duvet?
Often referred to as a comforter (yes, we know, it’s confusing, but stick with us), the key distinction is that a duvet is designed to go inside a duvet cover. It’s quilted and filled with something warm, usually down or a down alternative, but it’s plain by design and not meant to be seen. That’s why there’s such a wide range of stylish duvet covers out there. After all, you wouldn’t want your bed to face the day without getting dressed.
What Does a Duvet Cover Do?
The insert is essentially a comforter, while the cover is “a removable, protective shell for your comforter,” says Ruthie Osswald, designer at Brooklinen. Duvet covers come in a variety of:
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Colours
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Patterns
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Materials
They add texture, seasonal flair, bold tones, or soft neutrals to your space, while offering an extra layer of warmth and protecting the insert from dirt and oils. “Using a duvet cover is key,” says Osswald. “It creates a barrier between you and the comforter, helping to keep body oils from reaching its surface.”
Duvet Cover Fabrics: What Works Best, and When
According to Osswald, the most common materials for duvet covers include:
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Cotton
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Linen
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Flannel
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Cashmere
Flannel is ideal for winter, providing added warmth, while cotton and linen are better suited for warmer months. Still, the weight and fill of your insert will have a greater impact on temperature. Duvet covers are sewn around the edges, with an opening, typically at the bottom, secured by buttons, ties, or snaps, allowing you to insert or remove the comforter as needed.
The Pros of Duvets
They’re Low Maintenance
Because duvet inserts stay tucked inside a cover, they don’t get dirty as often and don’t need frequent washing. Case in point: I’ve had the same down insert since I was 10. Just make sure to choose one that’s machine-washable; your wallet will thank you for skipping the dry cleaning.
You Can Switch Up Your Look Easily
If your bedroom aesthetic changes with your mood, a duvet is a wise choice. Covers are affordable, easy to fold and store, and available in a wide range of designs. Keep a few on hand to rotate with the seasons, or just whenever you feel like a change.
They’re Often Fluffier Than Comforters
Thanks to a higher fill power, many duvets offer a loftier, more insulated feel compared to standard comforters.
There’s Something For Every Budget
Whether you’re after a budget-friendly option or willing to splurge on something premium, there’s a duvet for you. Top-rated inserts under $100 can get the job done, while higher-end versions are well worth the investment if you're looking for longevity and luxurious comfort.
The Cons of Duvets
Some Duvets Can Be Wildly Expensive
Let’s be honest: there are duvets out there with eye-watering price tags, some exceeding $400. And while those high-end options might be genuinely luxurious, you don’t need to blow your budget to get something cosy and well-made. A solid mid-range option can work just as well for most people.
Duvet Covers Are Often Sold Separately
Not all bedding sets include a duvet cover, so you might need to buy one separately, which can feel like yet another thing to add to your cart (and your budget).
Changing Duvet Covers Is A Pain
Yes, the Burrito Method exists. And yes, there are countless YouTube hacks. But let’s be real: none of them are truly effortless. Compared to simply tossing a comforter on the bed, swapping a duvet cover takes time and patience.
They Don’t Always Stay In Place
Even with corner ties, duvet inserts can shift around inside the cover, leading to the dreaded lumpy, uneven bedding situation. It’s not a dealbreaker, but be prepared to give your duvet a good shake every week or so to keep things evenly distributed.
Duvet Sizes
Duvets are smaller in size than their comforter counterparts. The measurements will vary a tad based on the brand you go with, but generally, these bad boys hover around these dimensions:
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Twin/Twin XL: 64 inches x 89 inches to 70 inches x 88 inches
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Full/Double: 80 inches x 89 inches to 90 inches x 94 inches
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Queen: 88 inches x 90 inches to 90 inches x 94 inches
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King/Cal King: 104 inches x 90 inches to 108 inches x 94 inches
What is a Comforter?
Much like a duvet insert, a comforter is a thick, soft, quilted blanket filled with insulating material. The key difference? A comforter doesn’t come with a removable cover. It’s typically sold as part of an all-in-one bedding set, often with matching pillow shams and sheets, making it a convenient option for those who prefer a low-effort, cohesive look.
“Comforters are usually filled with insulating materials like down or down-alternative fibres, providing warmth and loft, all encased in a single fabric shell,” explains Ruthie Osswald, designer at Brooklinen. Down offers superior warmth and lightness, but it can trigger allergies, while synthetic alternatives are generally more allergy-friendly. “You can also choose a comforter based on fill power, which measures the loft and insulating ability of the down,” adds Osswald. Higher fill power equals more warmth and fluff.
Design Meets Function: Comforter Aesthetics and Structure Explained
When shopping, you’ll find comforters in a range of colours and patterns, including machine-washable options. Others are designed to double as duvet covers or duvet inserts. These are usually plain white. “Comforters are great for adding volume to the bed and retaining heat during colder months,” says Osswald.
There are also different construction styles to consider. “Baffle-box construction features internal fabric walls between the top and bottom layers, allowing the fill to loft more evenly for a smooth, structured look,” explains Susan Lazor, associate product development merchant at The Company Store. “Sewn-through box construction, on the other hand, stitches directly through both layers, creating a puffier, more pillowy appearance.”
The Pros of Comforters
They’re Ready To Go
Comforters come in a wide range of colours, patterns, and textures. There’s no need to buy a separate cover to make them look nice.
They’re Often Part Of A Set
Many comforters are sold with matching shams or throws, making it easier to style your bed without having to hunt for coordinating pieces.
They’re Generously Sized
Comforters tend to be larger than duvets, often hanging over the sides of the bed for a more enveloping, tucked-in feel, even if they’re not quite as lofty.
No Struggling With Covers
Let’s be honest: stuffing a duvet into its cover can be maddening. Comforters spare you the hassle entirely, just toss them on the bed and you’re done.
The Cons of Comforters
They’re A Fixed Design Choice
Unlike a duvet with a removable cover, you can’t easily change the look of a comforter. If you want a new style, you’ll need to buy an entirely new one, which can feel like a big commitment, especially after five minutes scrolling Pinterest.
They Lose Loft Over Time
Like duvets, comforters eventually flatten as the filling breaks down. When that happens, you’ll need to replace the whole thing, and if it had a specific print, finding an exact match might be impossible.
Cleaning Can Get Costly
Some comforters are machine-washable, but many are dry-clean-only. Unlike a duvet, you can’t just toss a cover in the wash. If you’re someone who lounges, snacks, or drops everything on the bed, dry cleaning bills could add up fast.
Comforter Sizes
As mentioned, comforters are often larger than similarly labeled duvets. It's also common for people to secure a comforter a bit larger than their mattress size, allowing it to hang off the sides of their bed slightly.
With that in mind, here's the general sizing for comforters:
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Twin/Twin XL: 66 inches x 86 inches to 68 inches x 88 inches
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Full/Double: 81 inches x 86 inches to 84 inches x 88 inches
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Queen: 86 inches x 96 to 88 inches x 100 inches
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King/Cal King: 86 inches x 96 inches to 88 inches X 100 inches
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Detailed Duvet vs Comforter Comparison
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Category |
Duvet |
Comforter |
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Durability |
A duvet’s durability will depend mainly on its construction and materials. Duvets with high-quality fill encased in a shell that’s at least 300-thread count should hold up well over time if cared for properly. However, they may require occasional fluffing. |
The durability of a comforter varies depending on its materials and the care it receives. Since sleepers often use comforters without a duvet cover, they can get stained or dirty, which limits their lifespan. Frequent laundering could also cause them to lose their shape. If properly cared for, high-quality comforters should last approximately as long as an equivalent duvet. |
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Warmth & Loft |
Duvets tend to be thicker, heavier, and warmer than comforters. The loft will be affected by the fill materials and how frequently you fluff it, while both the fill and cover materials can influence the warmth. |
Comforters are usually thinner than duvets, so they’re often not as warm. This may make them more comfortable for year-round use, but owners may need an extra blanket for warmth during the winter. |
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Cost |
Shoppers can find a duvet to fit into most budgets if they’re open to different fill materials, though traditional down duvets are often expensive. Covers can also add to the expense. |
Like duvets, comforters come in a wide range of price points based on their materials. They’re often most affordable when bundled with other bedding. |
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Style |
Since duvet covers can be swapped out without replacing the whole duvet, owners have a huge range of style options. Duvet covers come in various patterns, colors, and fabrics, allowing you to easily adjust the look of your bed according to the season or your mood. |
Comforters are crafted for sleepers to use without a duvet cover, so they come in a broad spectrum of colors and patterns to suit different aesthetics. |
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Cleaning & Care |
Cleaning and care instructions vary between duvets based on their materials and construction, and you should always follow the care instructions that come with your duvet to prevent damage. Some duvets are washable, but many require special care, like dry cleaning or spot cleaning. Duvet covers are often machine washable, which can help protect the duvet insert and reduce the need for frequent laundering. |
A comforter’s care instructions will depend on its materials, so you should follow the manufacturer's suggestions to preserve the quality of your item. Some comforters are machine washable, although doing so at home may be challenging due to their bulky nature. If you're concerned about keeping your comforter clean, consider pairing it with a washable duvet cover. |
Design Differences Between Duvets and Comforters
Duvets and comforters differ in:
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Structure
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Appearance
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Material
For starters, a duvet consists of an insert and a removable cover (also known as a duvet cover), while a comforter is one solid piece.
This distinction leads to differences in:
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Design (e.g., removable cover vs. sewn-together layers)
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Ease of cleaning
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Versatility
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Style and more.
A duvet has a plush, pillowy look since the insert portion is usually thicker and warmer than many comforters. The covering might be made of linen, cotton, or another bed sheet-like material and can look a little more wrinkled or rumpled.
Comforters are typically thinner and more streamlined in appearance, as they consist of a single layer of fabric. They can appear quilted and textured, and are easily layered for a colorful look. Comforters also typically have more overhang than duvets (since they are less plush), so they cover more surface area.
Cleaning and Maintenance
One of the main differences between a duvet and vs. comforter is the use of covers. While duvets are typically paired with covers, comforters are not. This can affect both the durability and ease of washing.
A duvet cover adds a layer of protection, so some damage that may render a comforter unusable requires a new cover for those using a duvet. Duvet covers are also usually machine washable, making it easier to refresh the surface.
Size Matters: Duvets vs. Comforters
Another key difference between a duvet and a comforter is size.
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Duvets tend to be the same size as a mattress, covering the mattress surface with only some of the duvet hanging over the edge.
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Comforters, on the other hand, tend to be much larger and cover the entire mattress and hang over the side of the bed.
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Size |
Duvet |
Comforter |
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King/Cal King |
104 inches x 90 inches to 108 inches x 94 inches |
102 inches x 88 inches to 110 inches x 98 inches |
|
Queen |
88 inches x 90 inches to 90 inches x 94 inches |
86 inches x 96 inches to 88 inches X 100 inches |
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Full/Double |
80 inches x 89 inches to 90 inches x 94 inches |
81 inches x 86 inches to 84 inches x 88 inches |
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Twin/Twin XL |
64 inches x 89 inches to 70 inches x 88 inches |
66 inches x 86 inches to 68 inches x 88 inches |
|
King/Cal King |
104 inches x 90 inches to 108 inches x 94 inches |
102 inches x 88 inches to 110 inches x 98 inches |
Please note:
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The sizes of duvets and comforters for different mattresses, as listed in the above chart, may vary by a few inches depending on the manufacturer.
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Carefully consider the size and thickness of your mattress when purchasing a duvet or comforter.
Warmth and Temperature Regulation
Comforters are much lighter, thinner, and less airy than duvets, which are thicker, loftier, and provide more warmth. Comforters are great for all-year-round comfort (especially during warmer months), but sleepers may need to grab an extra blanket during wintertime.
Duvet inserts can come in various thicknesses and levels of warmth. The thickness of a duvet is often measured in duvet togs, a unit of measurement that rates how well your duvet can retain heat.
Winter duvets have a high tog rating, while light summer duvets have a low tog ratings. You can also get all-year duvet inserts and hypoallergenic duvet inserts for milder weather and springtime. Duvet covers can also be customized, with options available that are hypoallergenic and organic.
Durability of Duvets vs. Comforters
This depends on the quality of the duvet or comforter you buy. Duvets tend to be more durable as they’re built to last and don’t have to be washed as often as a comforter, which can reduce the lifespan. Dirt-cheap duvets are likely to be of lower quality, so those may not last as long.
Price Range for Duvets and Comforters
Both duvets and comforters vary in price based on the materials used. Comforters may be slightly more affordable upfront since you won’t need to purchase a cover and could save money with a bedding bundle. In the long run, duvets may ultimately be the better value, as a duvet cover protects the insert, and a style change only requires the purchase of a new cover.
In general, comforters tend to be cheaper and more accessible than duvets (due to their more affordable materials and production method). They are often available to buy as part of an economic bedding set.
Style and Versatility for Duvets and Comforters
The range of design options available for duvet covers can make duvets more versatile in appearance. Since they are typically warmer than comforters, they might not be ideal for year-round use. Sleepers may use a comforter year-round and pair it with a blanket in winter, but the appearance is consistent, providing less design versatility.
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Should You Get a Duvet or Comforter?
From comfort to cleaning, here are the key factors to keep in mind as you shop. Your choice comes down to what looks best.
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Duvets usually appear thicker and fluffier, perfect if you love a cozy, plush look. Plus, you can easily swap out the duvet cover whenever you want a change.
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Comforters, on the other hand, are often larger than duvets and drape over the sides of the bed, giving a more finished look.
Some comforters also feature intricate details, such as beading or embroidery. Since they’re not as thick, you might want to layer a comforter with throw blankets or quilts for added warmth.
Comfort: Duvets vs. Comforters
Duvets are typically thick and puffy, while comforters are usually a bit thinner. When choosing between the two, consider your body temperature and sleeping habits.
Warmth and Loft: Which Will Keep You Warmer?
Duvets have less filling, so they are thinner and less warm than comforters. When purchasing a comforter, remember that you’ll also need a top sheet, blanket, or quilt for colder nights. On the contrary, duvets are plusher and loftier with excess filling. They are warm enough in winter, and you don’t need to use an additional sheet or blanket for warmth.
Before buying a duvet or comforter, consider where you will be living and the winter temperature of the place.
Cleaning: Duvets vs. Comforters
If you use a top sheet, duvets and comforters only need to be washed every two to three months, at most, since they won't come into direct contact with your body. If you skip the top sheet, a duvet cover is a better choice, as it can be washed more frequently.
On laundry day, simply put the duvet cover in the wash and reattach it to the insert afterward; there's no need to wrestle with a bulky comforter in your machine or take it to the dry cleaner. One of the disadvantages is that it will take a few extra minutes to put the duvet cover back on, but it saves you from washing the duvet insert more than necessary.
Price: Which Is More Affordable?
The cost of a comforter or duvet set can vary widely, but duvets are usually more expensive. When buying a duvet, you’ll typically need to purchase the insert and cover separately. The upside is that the insert, the pricier part, should last for years, and you can easily update your look by swapping out the cover whenever you want a fresh aesthetic.
Size: Duvets vs. Comforters
Duvets inserts tend to be thicker and fluffier than comforters. Comforters are designed to hang over the sides of the bed and also tend to be larger than a standard duvet, making them a great option if you sleep with a partner.
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Best Noise Cancelling Earplugs for Sleeping
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Why You Need a Duvet for Luxurious Sleep
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Duvets are simply better than comforters for your sleep. With their superior temperature regulation and customizable nature, using a duvet can create a more restful sleep environment. Plus, they look great on your bed! There’s nothing quite like pulling back an elegant duvet to get into bed at night.
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Comforters, on the other hand, can trap heat and moisture, leaving you feeling clammy during the night. Their bulky appearance also leaves much to be desired.
Make the switch to a duvet for luxe sleep.
