Duvet vs. Comforter: What's the Difference? | Casper Blog
Duvet vs. Comforter: What’s the Difference?
So you’re shopping for bedding for your new apartment and you’re faced with a tough decision: Should you get a duvet or comforter?
If you don’t know the difference between the two, you’re not alone. Many people will use these terms interchangeably. However, duvets and comforters are very different.
A duvet is a type of bedding commonly filled with natural or synthetic fibers — typically down, wool, or feather. A comforter works like a quilted blanket filled with synthetic fibers.
Still confused? We dive into everything you need to know about duvets vs. comforters below.
The Main Difference Between a Comforter and a Duvet
The main difference between a duvet and comforter is that a comforter is just one piece of bedding while a duvet requires two separate pieces — an insert and cover. A comforter is usually quilted with the filling evenly distributed, while a duvet has an insert that works as the fill. The insert fits into the duvet cover like a pillow in a pillowcase.
A comforter is ready to use once you buy it — it does not need a duvet cover or cover of any kind. However, you can use a duvet cover on a comforter if you wish. Some people will do this if they want to protect their comforter from getting dirty. A comforter can work as the insert for the duvet. While you certainly can use a duvet cover on a comforter, it’s not necessary.
Duvet Sizes vs. Comforter Sizes
While duvets can look more fluffy, comforters are usually larger than duvets. They hang over the side of the bed whereas duvets usually fit the exact size of the mattress.
Both duvets and comforters come in every mattress size out there. However, the dimensions of each size differ. Use our chart below to compare the sizes of duvets and comforters.
The above chart should be used as a guideline. Some mattress and bedding manufacturers may add or subtract a few inches from the sizes above.
Before buying a duvet or comforter, you should always consider your mattress size and thickness. Use the mattress sizes above as a jumping-off point. If your mattress is on the thicker side, look for a comforter or duvet that is at the top range of the recommended dimensions, or even consider sizing up.
Each piece of bedding has its pros and cons. What makes a duvet a popular choice is convenience and versatility.
Easy to make the bed with.
More versatile since you can change the style of it easily.
Easy to replace the cover and insert.
The filling can clump up.
While the duvet is easy to replace if it gets stained or worn out, it can be hard to assemble. Not to mention, the filling can clump up if not assembled correctly. The Casper duvet cover has a sewn-in quilted pattern with little clips that keeps the duvet insert in place, so you don’t have to worry about it clumping up.
A comforter is a popular choice for those that want a piece of bedding that is ready to go out of the bag. It also typically comes with a matching set, so you don’t have to do a ton of work shopping around for additional bedding.
Ready to use right out of the bag.
Provides a layered look to your bed.
Often comes in matching bed sets.
The filling is built-in and evenly distributed.
Can be too hot.
Because a comforter is one piece and very large, most are dry clean only. It can also get too warm for those that typically sleep hot.
Now that you know the difference between a duvet and comforter, below are some other considerations to keep in mind when shopping.
Duvets and comforters can typically be found around the same price point. However, prices may differ depending on the manufacturer and the materials used. Duvets and comforters that are filled with down feathers are going to be more expensive than duvets and comforters that are filled with synthetic fibers.
Also, because duvets come in two pieces that can be sold separately, they can sometimes air on the more expensive side. When shopping for a duvet, check to make sure it comes with both pieces to avoid any extra cost.
If you’re worried about the difference in care between a duvet and comforter, a duvet is going to be easier to clean. The cover slips right off and is machine washable whereas a comforter is one piece and bulky. A duvet cover can also be easily replaced if it gets stained or ruined. A comforter often needs to be taken to a dry cleaner to be properly cleaned.
When it comes to design, comforters can add a layered look to your bed. They are designed to go over the top sheet and hang from the sides. They also go well with sheets and pillowcases — creating a cohesive design. They are quick and easy to throw together and often come in matching comforter sets.
If you want a simpler look that you can change often, a duvet will be the better option. Duvets offer a cleaner design. They fit the size of your mattress — so there is no material hanging off the side. They are also fluffier. Many people will forgo the top sheet and just use a duvet and cover — this style of sleeping originated in Europe.
Duvet vs. Comforter: Which is Better?
Ultimately, the decision will come down to you and your personal preference. A duvet is often fluffier than a comforter. It comes in two pieces as opposed to a comforter that is just one piece and is ready to use upon purchase.
You should choose a comforter if:
You want something that is simple and ready to go.
You want something that comes with a matching set.
You want a layered look to your bedding.
You should choose a duvet if:
You want easy care.
You want bedding that is versatile.
You want a fluffy look to your bed.
At Casper, we offer three different types of duvets to fit every type of sleeper. For those that tend to sleep hot, our Humidity Fighting Duvet has an added layer of merino wool that helps keep you cool and our Down-Alt Duvet is made with a TENCEL™ Lyocell fiber shell to keep you cozy without overheating.
All of our duvets come with a cover and insert, so you don’t have to worry about any extra cost. We also offer a 30-night, risk-free trial so you can try out each duvet and choose the one that is best for you — happy snoozing!
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