From Coverlets to Comforters: Beautiful Bedding Options for Any Ensemble

Many people think that all they need is a blanket and pillow to complete a bedroom ensemble. But, the truth is that there’s a lot more to it than that. So, here are some ideas to get you going and get a “magazine-quality” bedroom you’ve always wanted.

A Nice Bedspread

A bedspread is a generic term used to describe a pre-filled cover that’s used as a top layer on a bed. They add warmth on cold winter nights, but aren’t always considered a “top layer” that will insulate well. 

While all comforters, quilts, and coverlets are considered bedspreads, not all bedspreads fall into these respective categories. A bedspread could be a light blanket, for example.

Bedspreads can be layered for more warmth, however.

A Comforter

Comforters are a specific kind of bedspread, and is sometimes quilted. However, it’s not considered a quilt, per se. They’re usually filled with layers of material, like down or faux down, to help insulate. They can also be filled with wool or silk. The loft or thickness of the filling is what determines the weight and insulating factor of the comforter.

The best down and down alternative comforter will be stitched to secure the inner filling and make sure that it is evenly distributed. You can get an idea of how these are constructed here.

A Quilt

Quilts are usually composed of three layers of material. Then, these materials are stitched together in decorative patterns. Because they are generally pieced together over time, they tend not to have a uniform look or feel.

However, commercial-quality quilts often dispense with the “handmade” feel and make quilts in a uniform (or at least matching or patterned) manner.

Modern quilts aren’t always used for bedding. Because they can look somewhat casual, they are also used as blankets or as undercovers for a comforter.

A Duvet and Cover

A duvet is a soft flat bag that’s filled with feathers or a synthetic material. It’s inserted into a removable cover, which acts like a “pillowcase” for the duvet. They are typically designed as standalone covers and not to be used in combination with other blankets.

The difference between duvet and comforter is that the duvet has a cover and a comforter does not.

Many people use them as their primary bedspread. Then, they mix and match pillowcases, sheets, and other accessories for a casual look.

Higher-end duvets and covers will seal in the duvet and distribute it evenly in the cover. Cheaper covers have no way to secure the duvet, so it may bunch up at one end and provide suboptimal covering and insulation.

Coverlet

It’s a rare thing to see one of these in a bedroom anymore. But, they’re still popular in some households. A coverlet is a non-reversible bedspread that’s either quilted or woven. It’s designed as a decorative layer that goes over a thicker bedspread and often has a thin layer of batting. This makes it appropriate for use as a stand-alone bed covering and, depending on the weight, it can be used as a throw on a bed or sofa.

Because of its size, it’s usually not able to be used in a “pillow tuck,” like some bedspreads.

Brooke Harding is a college student studying interior design. Her favorite part of a project is choosing the finishing touches to tie a theme together. In her spare time she writes for DIY/decor sites.

photo via muralswallpapers.co.uk