Confused about the difference between a quilt and a duvet? We set the record straight.

27.05.24 | By Bed Threads | Journal

What’s the Difference Between a Quilt and a Duvet? We Break It Down

Confused about the difference between a quilt and a duvet? We set the record straight.

If you’ve ever wondered about the difference between a quilt and a duvet, you’re not alone. But if you want to get the best sleep of your life (and give your bedroom that dreamy Instagram aesthetic!), you need to know your coverlet from your comforter and your quilt from your duvet.

Your duvet – or doona – is the thick blanket filled with natural or synthetic material such as down, feathers, wool, silk or synthetic fibres that you put inside a duvet cover. These can range from light summer options to super-warm wintery ones, and will likely be one of the largest investments you’ll make when building your dream bedroom.

Quilts, on the other hand, are a layer that goes on top of your usual bedding. And while we’re not opposed to ‘grandma chic’ or cottagecore vibes, the quilts of tomorrow have become a must-have in modern bedrooms of every style.

Below, we take a look at the difference between a quilt and a duvet, and how layering them together can help create the cosy bed of your dreams.

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What is a quilt?

A quilt is a thick and fluffy blanket made up of multiple layers of fabric that have been stitched together. It’s a bit like a sandwich with a soft filling stitched between two lighter outers. But don’t get confused… A quilt isn’t a duvet or doona insert, but rather a beautiful aesthetic piece that will add some plushness and drama to your bedroom.

Think of it as a warm and snuggly masterpiece that adds another layer of cozy to your space. And as with all great designs, a good quilt looks just as desirable when not in use, so strew one over your bed for that artful, magazine-styled look.

Do you need a quilt?

While a quilt might not be a bedding essential, they’re becoming a must-have for those looking to take their bedroom to the next level.

Here are some reasons why a quilt will elevate your bedroom and improve your sleep:

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1. It’ll take your bed styling up a notch

Look at photos of artfully styled beds – the type with statement bedheads, accent cushions and flat sheets – and you’ll always spot a quilt in the mix for added plushness. If you're looking for a cosy, decorative option you can wash at home, a quilt may be the way to go.

2. It gives a comforting, heavy feel

Weighted blankets, begone! Often a quilt is denser than a duvet, giving you that comforting weighted feeling that melts the stress away. It’s ideal if you love feeling cocooned but also want an option that serves serious style.

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3. It can be used on its own

Line your quilt with a flat sheet and you have a perfect summer bedcover. Not too hot, not too light… hello there, goldilocks, we’ve found your perfect match.

4. It can help you save space

If you have a chunky winter duvet and a thin summer option on rotation, you’ll always need somewhere to store the one that’s not in use. However, if you use a quilt year-round – for example, layered over a lighter duvet in winter and with a flat sheet in summer – you’ll avoid the unenviable annual task of stuffing your duvet into its tiny bag and finding somewhere to store it!

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5. It’s a saviour when hosting

It’s a terrible feeling to sleep cold in someone else’s home. Bestowing a quilt on a house guest means they can self-regulate their temperature as they sleep, so you’re not left fretting about turning the heating on in the middle of the night!

6. It offers a compromise

If your partner is prone to night sweats while you’re snuggled in your thermal PJs 365 days a year, you’ll never agree on the perfect duvet. Enter the quilt… offering more comfort than couples therapy! The humble quilt can top just one side of the bed when it’s light’s out… It's the answer everyone’s been dreaming of.

The verdict?

A quilt and a duvet might seem similar, but they serve different roles in building your dream bedroom. While a duvet is a bedding essential, a quilt is a nice-to-have that’s really, really, really nice to have. It will add luxe drama to your bedroom, help you stay at the right temperature all year round and diffuse the age-old argument about who is hogging the duvet.