The pièce de résistance of any bed is its bedding. For those who opt for an easily interchangeable duvet whether to maintain an easy cleaning routine or swap with the seasons, the accompanying insert is the unsung hero to achieving a rich, inviting look.
A Duvet consists of two pieces: the duvet insert and its cover, which are typically sold separately. Duvet inserts are typically white, and the most durable designs have a baffle-box or channeled construction to keep the fill in place. They should have corner loops to attach the duvet cover to. Their covers, purchased separately, can come in a range of fabrications and styles. The cover can easily be taken off to be washed or changed with the seasons without having to launder the entire duvet. Duvets will give you the most options when it comes to filling and warmth levels, and can provide the loftiest feel. However, sometimes people don’t like the feeling when the insert (inevitably) comes apart from the cover or bunches up if it doesn’t properly fit the duvet cover, and it can be an involved task to change the duvet.
Comparatively, comforters are a single piece, that is typically quilted and filled with down or down alternative materials. They come in many styles, colors, patterns, and textures and are simply placed on the bed. However, you’re likely not going to change out your bedding as often, though many are machine washable, and it eventually may go flat, and you’ll have to find another design.
Down: Down duvets refer to the fluffy cluster of down clusters or feathers, typically from the feathers of ducks and geese. Down products tend to offer the highest levels of warmth and are regarded for their ability to provide excellent insulation. Plus, it gives off that extra fluffy look. When choosing down products, be mindful that they have ethical production features like meeting the Responsible Down Standard (RDS), a common certification that confirms the down products derived from geese and ducks are raised in compliance with the principles and criteria of animal welfare. Most down is actually derived from animals who had been raised for food, while Live Plucking is considered harmful to animals.
Down Alternative: Down alternative products mimic the look and feel of down but are typically made of a synthetic material like polyester, microfiber or rayon or natural materials like wool or bamboo. They’re typically considered a hypoallergenic option.
Wool: Wool is another all-natural and sustainable design gaining market share, especially among hot sleepers, for its temperature regulating abilities, so you won’t find yourself overheating or freezing. Wool is also moisture and odor resistant, and some organic options are available too. Wool is also naturally hypoallergenic and resistant to dust mites and allergens. A drawback to wool is that it does not offer the fluffy loft of standard duvets.
Silk: Silk duvets and comforters definitely fall on the luxury end of the bedding spectrum, but provide many benefits including being naturally moisture wicking and thermoregulating, long-lasting (when cared for properly they can last for decades) hypoallergenic, breathable,
Note, silk tends to have a more demanding care and upkeep as it’s typically not machine washable, compared to other materials.
