Duvet Inserts Compared To Other Bedding

It's no secret that the world of bedding can get a little complicated. With so many different kinds of sheets, blankets and pillows out there — along with a million opinions on the ‘right’ or ‘wrong’ ways to make a bed — deciding which bedding to invest in can feel like a daunting prospect.

If you're considering a duvet set for your bedding, you'll need to know what they are and how they compare to other kinds of bedding. Whether you need something fluffy and cosy for the winter, or you're after a versatile bedding item to keep you comfortable year-round, a duvet might just be the perfect choice for you.

Read on for a detailed breakdown of duvet inserts, including how to use them in your bed and how they stack up against different kinds of bedding.

What exactly is a duvet insert?

The first thing to know about duvet inserts is that they're a diverse bedding item.

In its basic form, a duvet insert is comprised of a stitched fabric shell with an insulating filling inside.

Traditionally, duvet inserts were filled with down feathers from ducks or geese, but today they're also made from a range of synthetic fibres like polyester and natural fibre down alternatives, like wool, silk and lyocell.

While duvet inserts are often thicker than most other types of bedding, they're also versatile enough to use comfortably throughout the seasons, keeping you warm and snug in winter and cool in summer.

How to use a duvet insert

One of the most appealing things about a duvet insert is flexibility. Duvet inserts can be used in a number of ways, depending on your personal preference in bedding style and how you best sleep comfortably.

• Duvet insert and duvet cover: The most common way to use a duvet insert is with a separate cover as part of a set. Using a duvet like this has the benefit of convenience when it's time to wash your bedding, as you can simply take off the removable cover and throw it in the laundry with your sheets and pillowcases. The extra layer of protection allows you to wash your duvet insert less frequently.
• Duvet insert by itself: Duvet inserts can also be used as the top layer of your bedding, without a cover at all. Using a duvet without a cover is an increasingly trendy option for a minimalist bedding style. Using a duvet without a cover is also a little simpler than using a duvet in the traditional set. With this style, there's no need to carefully insert and remove your duvet insert every time you wash your bedding. On the other hand, if you use your duvet insert by itself, you'll most likely need to wash it more often.
• Duvet without a top sheet: Another minimalist bedding style is to use a duvet insert and duvet cover set without a top sheet. Foregoing the top sheet can be a great way to simplify your bedding. Nobody likes to get tangled in a flat sheet in the middle of the night! What's more, top sheets are often made of the same snug materials as duvet covers, so you're still likely to sleep comfortably without one.

How is a duvet different from other kinds of bedding?

Duvet inserts have some things in common with other kinds of bedding but also stand out in some important ways. If you're considering a duvet for your next bedding set, consider how duvets compare to quilts, bed covers and blankets.

• Duvets and quilts:
  • Both: warm, cosy bedding options that are versatile enough to use throughout the colder months and warmer months alike
  • Duvets:
    • Generally refers to a two-piece duvet insert and cover set
    • Usually lighter and fluffier
    • Raised/puffy look
  • Quilts:
    • A single, self-contained item with quilted fabric (hence, the name!) on the top and bottom with insulating fabric stitched between them
    • Usually more dense and heavier
    • Flatter look
• Duvets and bed covers:
  • Bed covers:
    • Often used as the top, protective layer of bedding, whether you've just got blankets and sheets underneath, or in addition to a duvet set
    • Gorgeous decorative bedding item
    • Easily add a splash of colour to your bedding setup
    • Significantly thinner than duvet sets and can stand in as hot-weather blankets when used with your normal bed sheets.
• Duvets and blankets:
  • Blankets:
    • different from duvets as a single-piece bedding item
    • normally layered with sheets and other blankets to provide extra warmth and insulation
    • usually not as soft and snug as a duvet set.

Duvet aesthetics and styling

The main difference in style between duvets and other kinds of bedding is that duvets offer a distinctly plush look for your bed. This is because duvet inserts are a fluffier, cosier bedding item than most quilts or blankets.

Duvet sets are also great for layering with other bedding items, like bedsheets and throws, which can be folded or casually draped over your duvet for an extra pop of colour and texture. Alternatively, you can easily achieve an effortless, minimalist style for your bedroom by laying the entire duvet out casually on top of your bed, or an elegant magazine-ready look by draping it down the sides of the bed.

On the other hand, quilts and bed covers are suitable as more of an accent to your bedding look, layering well with bedsheets, light blankets and throws.

Temperature regulation

While duvets are often cosier and warmer for the winter than many other bedding options, this does not mean that they're too hot for use in the summer. In fact, high-quality duvets are a great option for year-round use.

They're also well-suited to warmer climates, as they're usually breathable, not too dense and effectively regulate your body temperature while you sleep.

Unlike quilts, blankets and bed covers, duvets are great to use on their own or with minimal layering, making them an excellent choice for a simple bedding look.

Linen duvet covers are also breathable and wick away moisture, ensuring you get a good night's sleep, even if you're a hot sleeper.

With a high-quality duvet set, you usually won't have to switch up your bedding styles to suit the seasons. However, if you're dealing with particularly cold nights, an additional blanket on top of or underneath your duvet can be a great way to increase the warmth level of your bedding.

Longevity and ease-of-care

One of the best reasons to opt for a duvet is because they're long-lasting and incredibly easy to look after.

Duvet inserts don't need frequent washing when used as part of a duvet set. You can easily remove the duvet cover for washing whenever you wash your flat sheet and fitted sheet, while the duvet insert can be spot-cleaned as needed or properly laundered every few months.

Duvet inserts and quilts have similar lifespans, and with proper care can stay healthy and comfortable for over ten years. One way to extend the lifespan of duvets and quilts is routinely hanging them to air out, which prevents moisture and mildew from damaging the filling and keeps them fresher for longer.

Materials

Like other bedding options, duvets can be made of a range of materials. While the traditional filling for duvet inserts is down feathers, there are plenty of natural and synthetic alternatives that have different properties and feel a little different to use.

• Duvets: Often made from down or down alternatives such as woollen or synthetic filling
• Quilts: Typically more dense, be made from a range of materials including cotton or linen
• Blankets: Made from a wide variety of materials, commonly including cotton, linen, wool or fleece, common synthetic fabrics used for blankets include polyester or acrylic knits

Bed covers: Lighter style of coverall blankets made from woven fabrics like cotton, linen or polyester.