What is a duvet?

A duvet is a type of bedding which is traditionally a soft flat bag filled with down or feathers or a combination of both used as a blanket. Duvets originated in rural Europe and were traditionally stuffed with duck feathers. Today’s duvets are sometimes filled with polyester or wool rather than the duck down. Still very popular in Europe, duvets have become popular throughout the world in the late twentieth century. Most duvets have removable coverings which can be easily washed and maintained. These covers are made from any material: cotton, wool, polyester or even suede. The term duvet covers has come to encompass any type of cover which goes over a quilt, blanket or comforter.

The popularity of duvets comes from the fact that they not only are very comfortable and warm, they also make it easier to make the bed. Duvets reduce the complexity of making the bed. Duvets can be used as a single cover in place of the normal combinations of sheets, comforters, and quilts popular throughout the world. Beds equipped with duvets are usually covered first with a flat or fitted bed sheet and then afterwards with a covered duvet. Duvets are often referred to as comforters, although a comforter is slightly different. A comforter is traditionally decorative while duvets are used for their warmth.

A duvet will keep you warm in the winter and cool in the summer. When buying a duvet, look for threads (at least 300 per square inch or you’ll find the feathers leaking out). Duvets are measured by weight of the feathers. The heavier it is, the warmer it is. Also, buy one that has had the down feathers cleaned and sterilized so as to be hypo-allergenic.

Although some people believe you cannot wash a duvet in the washing machine, that’s just not true. Just make certain that when you dry it, you dry it on the low cycle UNTIL IT IS COMPLETELY DRY. It would also be wise to put 2 or 3 tennis balls in the dryer to keep the duvet fluffed.

Comforters tend to defluff quickly and with a duvet, you can change the cover to match the seasons. Duvets add beauty and functionality to the home.