When shopping to create your ultimate sleep-space, whether online or in-store, you will typically find yourself looking for the perfect bedding product to keep you cozy and warm while you sleep. In the world of luxury bedding, there are numerous types of bed covers and essentials you can choose to snuggle-up under each night.  However, when you are met with terms such as duvets, quilts, or bedspreads it can be hard to know what the difference is between them and which one is right for your bed.

In this article, we will look at various bedding covers and list the differences between them so that you can pick the perfect essentials to make your bed the ideal sleep escape you’re dreaming of.

Looking For a New Bed Cover: Understanding the Different Types

Most people will grow up referring to the top layer of their bed as one term or another. For example, you may have always referred to it as a duvet while others may call it differently. That doesn’t mean that they were wrong. In fact, duvets/comforters aren’t the only kind of cover for your bed.

There are many different types of bed covers and understanding what each is and the benefits they provide is key to knowing which one is right for your needs.

Your bedding sets the pace for your bedroom’s style, feel, and atmosphere. So, when you’re looking to give your bedroom a brand new look, it helps to know the difference between each kind of cover.

Duvet/Comforter vs Quilt vs Bedspread: What is the Difference?

There are three main categories when it comes to bed covers: duvets/comforters, quilts, and bedspreads. Some of these you may have heard of before while others may be completely new to you. That’s where we come in. We’re here to clear up the confusion once and for all.

What is a Duvet/Comforter?

A duvet/comforter is a thick cover that is typically filled with either Down clusters, feather or a down-alternative material such as recycled microgel. This fluffy bed cover is usually constructed using a quilting or sewn-through technique to keep the fill evenly distributed throughout the cover.

Depending on what your needs are in terms of warmth, the amount and type of fill used can vary. If you choose to purchase a Down comforter, the loft or fill power rating will range from cool and lightweight (400 fill power) to heavy and warm (800 fill power and over). However, there are also great natural down alternatives on the market which are just as good at keeping you cozy such as the .

It is recommended to use a top sheet or extra blanket during the winter months if you live in a particularly cold climate. Comforters, whether made from a Down or synthetic fill, are the most popular form of bed cover in the United States and are widely used. When you are looking for a comforter/duvet, make sure that you research which kind of fill you would like. Here at Westex, we recommend looking for a Goose Down comforter with a baffle box construction for extra durability, warmth and comfort.

The warmth of a duvet/comforter depends on the amount and type of fill you choose. If you are looking for a duvet that provides a mid-level warmth, we advise looking for a Down or Down-Alternative duvet with a fill power of over 600 and a thread count of over 300. You will find that many luxury bedding brands use a high-quality cotton sateen shell which adds extra luxurious comfort to your bed.

Westex’s Canadian Hutterite Down duvet is a great option for those looking for a bed cover that will provide adequate warmth, comfort and coziness. Filled with certified premium Canadian white goose Down, this Downmark certified product is hypoallergenic, constructed with box stitching and offers premium 400 thread count. 

What is a Quilt?

A quilt is a decorative bed cover that is traditionally made with three layers: top, inner batting, and bottom. The top layer of a quilt is generally crafted using different pieces of fabric that are stitched together into artistic patterns. Many of you may have memories of your grandparent making a quilt or being gifted one as a family heirloom.

The inner batting layer is typically made using either wool or Down material, while the bottom layer consists of a single piece of fabric. The stitching method to construct quilts is referred to as quilting and is carried out by a sewing machine or hand.

Quilts are often brightly coloured and feature designs such as log cabins, flying geese, flowers or patchwork. They are light in weight making them perfect as a bed cover during the summer or as an extra comfy layer during the winter. While they may look similar to that of a comforter, quilts are considered more of a decorative piece.

What is a Bedspread?

Finally, the last category is that of a bedspread. These covers are single-layered and cover the entire bed and right down to the floor. They are often ornate and feature elaborate woven textures such as chenille finishings, pom poms or corduroy. Unlike quilts, they typically come in solid colours.

While they come in a variety of weights, these bedding products are often chosen as a lightweight option that can be used over a blanket during the colder months. You will commonly find them in hotel bedrooms to add a touch of style while still being comfortable.

Comparison Chart: Which Bedding Option is Best For You?

Still not sure which type of bedding is the right choice for you? We’ve put together a helpful comparison chart so that you can adequately compare each of these bed cover types without too much hassle.

Luxury Bedding: Why You Should Always Purchase From a Reputable Brand

When you are considering buying a new bed cover, you should always see it as an investment piece. Whether you’re searching for a new Down duvet or a quilt, choosing a reputable brand or bedding manufacturer that produces high quality products is always the best choice to take.

Unfortunately, there are many brands out there that provide customers with misleading information especially when it comes to Down duvets/comforters. That’s why research is important. Make sure to look at reviews and learn more about the manufacturing process used to create the bedding item you are looking for.

Here at Westex, we use sustainable and ethical means when manufacturing our bedding collection. All of our Down and Down-Alternative duvets, comforters, and pillows are put through a rigorous sourcing and construction process to make sure that we can deliver only the best of bedding products to your favourite store. Our Down products are certified by the Down Association of Canada.