Skip to main content

What is a duvet? Duvet vs. comforter, which is right for you?

How to decide between these two types of bed covers

Cozy neutral bed with fairy lights
Syda productions / Adobe Stock

If you’re unclear about what a duvet is and how it differs from a comforter, you’re not alone. Anyone who has shopped for bedding has likely come across this discrepancy and thought: “What is a duvet?” Well, we have your answers. Here’s how to tell the difference between a duvet vs. a comforter and what to consider when purchasing one of these bedding products.

Recommended Videos

Duvet vs. comforter

Orange and red pillows in minimalist bedroom
Ground Picture / Shutterstock

Though duvets and comforters serve the same purpose, they are different kinds of products. Both are essentially large blankets filled with some type of fluffy material that goes on the top of your bed. A comforter is a single-quilted blanket, while a duvet comes in two pieces: a duvet cover and a duvet insert — sort of like one big pillow case and pillow, but as a bed topper-blanket combo. Also, a comforter is typically a bit larger than the bed and hangs over the sides. Meanwhile, a duvet fits precisely on top of the bed.

Pros and cons of using a duvet vs. comforter

Pale green bedroom walls.
Ryan McVay / Getty Images

So, a duvet has an insert, but a comforter doesn’t, and a comforter is a little bigger. What do you really need to know?

Based on popularity

Comforters are more common because they often come in sets with matching sheets and pillow covers. You can also easily layer other throw blankets on top of a comforter, while a duvet is typically the only top layer of a bed setup and gives more of a neat and tidy look.

For decor

From a decor perspective, a duvet is nice to have because you can easily swap out duvet covers without buying a whole new insert, which could be expensive depending on the type of insert material. With comforters, you’d have to buy an entirely new comforter to switch up the look of your bed.

Washing a duvet vs. comforter

Then there’s the washing: On one hand, duvets are much easier to clean because you only have to wash the insert, whereas comforters require you to fit a big, bulky item into your washing machine. On the other hand, you’ll then have to stuff your duvet insert back in the duvet cover after it’s clean, which takes some maneuvering but isn’t impossible to get the hang of.

Which is more comfortable: A duvet or a comforter?

modern coastal design bedroom with blue and white bed sheets
jafara / Shutterstock

This usually depends on the type of material and your own preferences.

Comforter

Comforters are often made of cotton or polyester, though silk, wool, and down blankets are also viable options. They can be quite thick and provide a lot of warmth in colder months or in colder climates. Because they are larger than the bed (hanging over the sides), some people like to swaddle themselves in them or curl up with plenty of room to stretch out.

Duvet

We have found that duvets can be a bit thicker and fluffier than comforters. They also tend to better retain their fluffiness over time. Duvets are often made of cotton. Like comforters, these bed-toppers also come in a variety of materials. Some duvets can be thinner, making them a great decorative addition to the bed in summer or in warmer climates. Other duvets are thicker, making them a versatile blanket for any temperature, which many comforters simply don’t achieve.

Many people have used comforters their whole lives and would love to switch to a duvet, while others don’t see the hype. When it comes to duvet vs. comforter, it’s all about what you’re looking for in the appearance of your bed, how you’ll wash it, and the type of comfort you want.

Briana Bonfiglio
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Is millennial green the new millennial gray? Here’s what to know
Here's the lowdown on the millennial green trend
Pale green wall paint color with retro decor

Millennial gray swept through many interiors during the minimalist movements of the 2010s as millennials attempted to counteract the gaudy and beige interiors of their parents. Today, millennials are transitioning away from gray to green. The swap seems to be inspired by new biophilic interiors, old-money aesthetics, and cottagecore looks.

Sage, olive, and forest green tones are trending everywhere. But is it becoming tacky and overrated? We weigh in on what you need to know about millennial green.
What is millennial green?

Read more
5 soothing nursery colors to create a calm baby space
Check out the best nursery color palettes for a relaxing baby's room
Pregnant woman looking at paint swatches for nursery.

Bringing a baby into the world is an experience filled with many essential decisions, one of which is choosing the color scheme for the nursery. While nursery colors may not seem like a top priority when compared to other parenting decisions, the colors in your baby’s room can affect the mood of both you and your baby.

There are countless studies related to how color affects adults, and though infants can’t see color, they will as they grow older. Most parents want to create a calm and soothing environment for their baby, and choosing the colors for a nursery is the first step in the process. Check out the best nursery color palettes for a relaxing baby's room below.
Soft shades for a nursery

Read more
Tile drenching is the newest trend — here’s how to do it right
Here's everything you need to know about this trend
Kitchen subway tile backsplash with dark grout

Color drenching has swept through many contemporary designs in the past few years and has impacted maximalist spaces. Inspired by this bold and poignant interior aesthetic, designers and homeowners alike are investing in the newest trend: tile drenching.

If you want to hop on this trend and create a unique look for your bathroom or kitchen, then we have what you need to know to tile-drench the right way.
What is tile drenching?

Read more