July 2024

Quilts, comforters, duvets, blankets, bedspreads… oh my! If you’ve ever shopped for bedding, you’ve likely run into lots of terms for that thing that’s job is to keep you warm. And you’ve probably wondered if there’s a difference between them, what it is, and when to use each. It really comes down to three choices – quilt, comforter, and duvet – and each has unique benefits and characteristics you should understand. After all, the bedroom is the room where you spend the most time in your apartment or townhome (even if you’re asleep for much of it), so it’s worth the effort to make as comfortable as possible.

Quilt

A quilt is a three-layered piece of bedding, traditionally composed of a top layer, a layer of batting (also known as wadding), and a bottom layer. The top layer is usually made up of different pieces of fabric sewn together, creating intricate patterns and designs. The three layers are then quilted, or stitched together, providing a distinctive textured appearance. It’s that stitching that holds the batting in place to make sure it doesn’t shift or collect in one area of the quilt.

Reason for Using:

Quilts are favored for their artistic appeal. They can serve as a lightweight bedding option during warmer months or as an additional layer in colder seasons. Quilts are also popular as decorative pieces, often showcasing beautiful patterns and craftsmanship.

How to Choose:

When selecting a quilt, consider the season and your warmth needs. For spring or summer, a lighter quilt is fine, while fall or winter requires a quilt with denser batting. The design and color scheme should complement your decor, reflecting your personal style and creating the desired ambiance.

Comforter

A comforter thick, fluffy, and filled with synthetic fiber, down, or a blend of materials, enclosed in a fabric shell. Unlike quilts, comforters typically feature a single layer of filling, with the outer fabric sewn together without the intricate stitching found in quilts. They are designed to be used as a standalone bedding piece, providing warmth and comfort.

Reason for Using:

Comforters are generally warmer than quilts and are suitable for use in fall, winter, and spring. Depending on the filling and fabric, comforters are typically too warm to use in the summer. Their fluffy nature adds a plush, cozy feel to your bed.

How to Choose:

When choosing a comforter, consider the filling material and weight. Down fillings offer superior warmth and lightness but can be more difficult to wash and care for. The biggest advantages of synthetic fills are that they are hypoallergenic and easier to care for. The warmth level should align with your sleeping preferences. If you sleep better in a cold room, a heavy comforter can keep things cozy. Additionally, the design and color of the comforter should match your bedroom decor, as it often serves as the centerpiece of the room.

Duvet

A duvet is similar to a comforter but typically features a removable cover, much like a pillowcase for a pillow. The duvet insert is filled with down, or synthetic fibers, and the cover can be made from a variety of fabrics. This two-piece design allows the cover to be removed for easy cleaning and customization.

Reason for Using:

Duvets are favored for their versatility and ease of maintenance. The removable cover makes it simple to change the look of your bedding without investing in a new duvet or comforter. It also makes washing easier. Even a king size duvet cover can fit in a standard washing machine, while a thick comforter may not. And the more you wash a comforter (or the duvet itself), the less fluffy the fill will be.

How to Choose:

When selecting a duvet, consider the fill power or weight, which indicates warmth and comfort. Down will typically be warmer but isn’t hypoallergenic. The choice of material for both the insert and the cover should fit your comfort preferences and ease of care. And like all bedding, the duvet cover should complement your bedroom’s decor, offering flexibility to change styles with different covers.

Choosing between a quilt, comforter, and duvet comes down to personal preference and knowing which type of bedding best meets yours. Whether you prioritize artistic design, plush comfort, or practicality, there’s a bedding option tailored to your needs. At Erie Station Village, we offer studio, one- and two-bedroom apartments, as well as one- and two-bedroom townhomes. You can view our floorplans and amenities here.