Duvet Cover Information
Duvet covers are a bit of a mystery to some, but once you understand their magic, you'll wonder how you ever lived without one! From protecting your precious duvet to instantly transforming your bedroom's look, these fabric sleeves are bedding superstars. Let's dive into the most common questions people ask about duvet covers.
What Exactly Is a Duvet Cover? (And How's It Different from a Comforter?)
Think of a duvet cover as a giant pillowcase for your duvet. Your duvet is the fluffy, cozy insert (filled with down, down alternative, or other materials) that goes inside the cover.
Now, a comforter is similar in fluffiness, but it usually comes with a finished, decorative outer shell. You don't typically put a comforter inside a separate cover because it's already "dressed." While you can technically try to put a comforter into a duvet cover, duvets are specifically designed for this purpose.
Why Should I Even Bother with a Duvet Cover?
Oh, let us count the ways!
- Protection Power: It shields your duvet insert from spills, dirt, sweat, and oils, which helps it last much longer.
- Cleaning Made Easy: Washing a bulky duvet insert is a chore. A duvet cover? Pop it right in the washing machine!
- Instant Room Refresh: Want a new look for your bedroom without breaking the bank? Just swap out your duvet cover. It's like redecorating in minutes.
- Temperature Control: Different cover materials can help you stay cooler or warmer, enhancing your sleep experience.
What Size Duvet Cover Do I Need?
Generally, your duvet cover should match the size of your duvet insert and your mattress (Twin, Full, Queen, King, California King). Some people like a slightly oversized duvet cover for extra drape, especially if they have a thicker mattress. For the best fit and to prevent bunching, matching the sizes is usually the way to go. We usually recommend to have the duvet the same size or slightly larger than the duvet cover so it fills out the duvet cover better and decreases movement.
What Are Duvet Covers Made Of? What's the Best Material?
Duvet covers come in a fabulous array of materials, each with its own perks:
- Cotton: The most popular choice for good reason. It's soft, breathable, and durable. You'll find it in different weaves like percale (crisp and cool) and sateen (silky smooth). Cotton Duvet Covers
- Linen: Known for its relaxed look and incredible breathability. It gets softer with every wash! Linen duvet covers
- Silk: Luxurious, incredibly soft, naturally hypoallergenic, and excellent at regulating temperature. It does require more delicate care. Silk duvet covers
- Bamboo and Micromodal: Often blended, these are known for being incredibly soft, smooth, moisture-wicking, and wonderfully cool. Micromodal duvet covers
- Wool: Great for warmth, but can be a bit heavier than other options.
The "best" material really depends on your personal preference for how it feels, how warm or cool you like to be, and the aesthetic you're going for.
How Do I Actually Get the Duvet into the Cover?
This is where the famous "burrito method" (or "California roll method") comes in handy!
- Turn your duvet cover inside out and lay it flat on your bed, with the opening at the foot.
- Lay your duvet insert directly on top of the inside-out cover, making sure all the corners align.
- If your cover has them, tie the corner ties to the loops on your duvet insert. This is key to preventing bunching!
- Starting from the head of the bed, roll the duvet cover and insert together towards the foot, like you're making a giant burrito.
- Once you've got your "burrito," take the opening of the duvet cover and wrap it around the ends of your roll.
- Button, zip, or tie the cover closed.
- Finally, unroll your "burrito," shaking and fluffing as you go, and marvel at your perfectly covered duvet!
How Often Should I Wash My Duvet Cover?
Treat your duvet cover like your sheets - it's in direct contact with your body, so aim to wash it every 1 to 2 weeks. If you tend to sweat a lot, have pets, or experience spills, wash it more frequently. If you use a top sheet between you and the duvet cover, then you wouldn't need to wash the duvet cover nearly as often.
Can I Just Use a Duvet Cover Without an Insert?
Absolutely! In warmer climates or during summer, a duvet cover alone can make a great lightweight blanket. It won't have the fluff or warmth of a full duvet, but it works perfectly as a thin top sheet or light blanket.
What Should I Look for When Buying a Duvet Cover?
Beyond material and size, keep an eye out for these details:
- Closure: Do you prefer buttons, zippers, or ties? Buttons are a classic and often durable choice. Zippers have a more streamlined look, great for contemporary styles.
- Corner Ties: These are nice to have. They keep your duvet insert from shifting and clumping inside the cover. Look for at least one in each corner. However it is also generally easy to shake out the duvet when making the bed.
- Thread Count: For cotton, a higher thread count often indicates a smoother feel, but anything around 300 or above is generally considered good quality. It's definitely not the only thing that matters, though.
- Construction: Check the seams and overall finish to ensure it's well-made and will last.
Duvet covers are a practical, stylish, and incredibly versatile addition to any bedroom. Do you have a favorite duvet cover material?