Best Duvet Covers – Complete Reviews and Ratings

Duvet Cover Buyer’s Guide

Duvet vs. Comforter

Duvets are often referred to as comforters and vice versa, but there are differences between the two.

Comforters are one-piece blankets that may feature designs or a solid color and are meant to be used on their own. Duvets are usually filled with down and require a cover to protect them from dirt and other residues.

Pros and Cons

Comforters may be filled with cotton or a down alternative, which is lighter and requires only one purchase. The downside is that they aren’t as warm and can take a long time to dry after machine washing. Duvets are cozier and longer-lasting since you can easily swap out the cover for a new look.

Do You Need a Duvet Cover?

If you have a comforter, you don’t really need a cover since most are machine washable and feature colors or designs. If you currently own or are considering a duvet, there are a few important reasons to consider using a cover.

Duvets are usually filled with a higher-end material like down. This means that they cannot be easily washed and are more susceptible to damage from oils in our skin.

Most duvets are white, so they easily show dirt and are more prone to discoloration when left uncovered. A cover protects your duvet and is removable for easy cleaning as needed.

Another huge benefit of covers is customization. You can select different types of fabric and choose a color or print that suits your style. You can even change things up based on the season or when your bedroom needs a brand new look.

Important Quality and Comfort Considerations When Buying a Duvet Cover

Fit and Sizing

When it comes to fit and sizing, there can be many variations. A king-sized duvet may be different from a king-sized cover, and even just a slight variation can cause a lot of problems when it comes to bunching and shifting.

For this reason, it’s important to pay attention to dimensions and choose your size accordingly. Thankfully, most brands include corner ties to keep everything securely attached.

Design

Being able to customize your design is a huge benefit. Rather than buying a whole new blanket when you update your bedroom theme, you can just choose a new cover. There are many different designs to choose from including modern and traditional looks, as well as solid colors or patterns.

Color

Choosing the color comes down to preference and style. If you are looking to complement your existing bedroom decor, a solid color is an easy and versatile way to match. Many brands have a huge color palette to choose from, with everything from vibrant hues to soft pastels.

Closure Method

While it may not seem as important as other features, the method of closure can make a difference. Most covers are sewn together on three sides and have an opening where the blanket can be inserted. The different closure methods may include zippers, buttons, or clasps, and each has its own pros and cons.

Zippers are easy and convenient to use but can get caught on the fabric causing it to rip or tear.

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Zippers are also more prone to getting stuck, which can cause a lot of frustration.

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Sometimes, zippers are visible, and other times they are hidden beneath a fabric enclosure.

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Buttons and clasps create a clean, natural look and are also easy to use. One downside is that they can allow the blanket to show in the open spaces in-between. This also means dirt and debris can develop in the areas that are exposed.

Cost and Budget

When you’re shopping for new bedding, the first factor to consider is how much you want to spend. Whether you are looking for something comfy yet affordable, or a high-end luxury design, there are options to suit every budget.

Certifications like organic or fair-trade tend to be more expensive, but there are lots of great deals on high-quality products. If you have a limited budget, shop around for the best deal on the features that matter the most to you. Comfort and convenience usually top the list, so pay attention to the type of materials and how easy it is to clean.

Materials Used

There are many types of material to choose from when it comes to bedding, and they each have something different to offer.

Blended

Blending two different fabrics together can result in a material that has a more balanced feel than just one fabric alone. Blended fabrics offer affordability by pairing a luxury material with something that is more readily available. Another advantage is you get the best features of two different materials.

Organics

Some bedding options made with natural fabrics like cotton and linen are available with organic certifications. Many eco-conscious customers are looking for products that are grown without the use of pesticides or other potentially harmful chemicals. This has perceived health benefits for humans and the planet.

Flannel

Sleepers who love a warm, cozy bed tend to be drawn towards flannel. This fuzzy texture is made by brushing fabric, giving it that soft and cushy feel. Flannel tends to feel thicker and warm, making it a good option for colder climates or those long winter nights.

Cotton

As one of the most popular materials in the world of bedding, cotton has a reputation for being durable and versatile enough for year-round comfort. This fabric is grown worldwide and can be spun and weaved into a variety of different textures from brushed flannel to higher-end Egyptian cotton. Known for being soft, breathable, and hypoallergenic, cotton is a good option for those with skin sensitivities or allergies.

Polyester

Polyester is a manmade fabric created with synthetics that have similar properties as natural fibers. This means that polyester can mimic the look and feel of many other materials, and is often spun with natural fibers to create a blend with enhanced properties (such as cotton-polyester).

Linen

This natural textile is derived from the thick fibers of the flax plant. Linen requires an extensive manufacturing process, but the end result is a fabric that is known for being stronger, more absorbent, and quicker to dry than cotton.

This material is also very breathable, making it a great option for staying cool in warmer climates. Linen does have a couple of drawbacks such as being more prone to wrinkle and a coarse feel.

Bamboo Rayon

Derived from the chemical processing of cellulose fibers from bamboo, this semi-synthetic material is known for being soft, durable, and moisture-absorbing. While there are different varieties of bamboo, rayon was the first generation of regenerated cellulose fibers. This fabric has a smooth consistency that is breathable and cool.

Learn more about different materials in our other guides:

• Viscose or Cotton – Learn How To Pick The Right Material
• Bamboo Fiber vs. Cotton Sheets: Which Ones are Better?
• What’s the Difference Between Viscose and Rayon Fabric?

Type of Weave

The type of weave refers to how individual fibers have been woven together to create different types of fabric. Even with the same material, weaves can affect factors like breathability and feel.

• Percale: This closely woven stitch is straightforward and creates a thread count above 200. With a matte finish and a medium-firm weight, this weave has a crisp feel. Percale is known for being highly breathable, making it a great weave for warm summer nights.
  

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• Jersey: Jersey is a single-knit fabric that has a reputation for being soft and stretchy. When it comes to bedding, jersey is lightweight and less prone to wrinkle.
  

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• Sateen: Sateen weaves are spun using yarns instead of fibers, producing a soft and silky feel. Sateen has a shiny finish that sets it apart but is less durable than other weaves.
  

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• Twill: Twill is a weave that has a diagonal pattern with a progression of interlacings to the left or right. This fabric is known for being sturdy and very durable, so it tends to be longer-lasting.
  

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• Satin: Satin is one of the softest weaves, recognizable by its glossy finish. Satin bedding has a smooth texture that many people love, but it isn’t as durables as other weaves.

Return Policy

Having a return policy can be a great feature if you aren’t sure which type of material you are going to like. Not every manufacturer will offer this, so it is always good to check before making your purchase. Policies will vary in length and in terms of what they include, so pay attention to the details as well.

Frequently Asked Questions about Duvet Covers

What’s the best for hot sleepers?

If you’re prone to overheating at night, having a lightweight, breathable design is important. Natural fibers like cotton and linen tend to be the best choices for breathability, but the thread count and weave are considerations too. Percale and satin are good choices for weaves that allow air to flow freely, keeping you comfortable and cool.

What’s the best thread count?

Contrary to what most people believe, higher thread counts are not always better. This number refers to how many horizontal and vertical threads there are per square inch. In some cases, higher thread counts are softer, but lower thread counts are more breathable which is better for staying cool.

If you want to learn more read our thread count guide here.

What’s the best material?

When it comes to material, there isn’t one single fiber that is best for everyone. Factors like breathability, softness, and durability should come into play when you consider the best material for your needs.