Quilt, Doona or Coverlet: Which is Best
There’s nothing quite like slipping into a perfectly made bed at the end of the day, wrapped in layers of comfort and warmth. But when it comes to choosing the right bedding, the options can be overwhelming. Do you need a quilt, a doona, or a coverlet? Are they the same thing, or do they serve different purposes? If you’ve ever found yourself wondering “What is a doona?” or “What is a coverlet?”, you’re not alone.
In this article, we’re sharing the differences between all three types of bedding so you can find the perfect match for your bedroom.
What Is a Doona?
A doona—also known as a duvet in other parts of the world—is a thick, fluffy bedding piece filled with materials such as cotton, down, wool, or synthetic fibres. Designed to keep you warm, a doona is typically used inside a removable doona cover, allowing for easy washing and seasonal updates.
Doonas are ideal for:
- Those who love plush, cloud-like comfort
- Cooler months when extra warmth is needed
- Anyone who enjoys switching up their bedroom styling with different doona covers.
What Is a Quilt?
A quilt is traditionally a stitched, multi-layered bedding option that typically features a decorative fabric top, an inner layer of batting for warmth, and a soft backing. However, modern quilts are often used interchangeably with doonas and can be made from a range of materials, including down, wool and Tencel.
Opt for a lightweight quilt for summer or a heavier one for winter, depending on your preference.
Quilts are perfect for:
- Those who love traditional or decorative bedding
- Layering with blankets or throws for extra warmth. You can opt for a quilt cover to add a different design for modern quilts.
- In warmer climates where a heavy doona may be too much
What Is a Coverlet?
A coverlet is a lightweight bedspread that adds style and an extra layer of comfort to your bed. Typically thinner than both a quilt and a doona, a coverlet is perfect for warm-weather sleeping or as an extra layer in winter. It’s often used decoratively, draped over the bed to complete a polished, hotel-like look.
Coverlets are better for:
- In warmer climates where you only want something very light over your top sheet
- A stylish, layered bedding aesthetic
- Those who prefer a low-maintenance, easy-to-wash option
Doona or Quilt: Which One Should You Choose?
If you’re deciding between a doona or a traditional quilt for cool weather sleeping, consider both warmth and versatility. If you prefer an ultra-soft, cocoon-like sleep experience, a doona is your best bet. However, if you love a classic look with breathable comfort, a quilt might be the way to go.
GSM (grams per square metre) is also an important factor that determines a doona’s weight and warmth. The higher the GSM, the thicker and warmer the doona. Here’s a general guide to help you choose:
- 150-250 GSM: Lightweight doonas, perfect for summer or warm climates.
- 300-450 GSM: Medium-weight doonas, suitable for year-round use in moderate climates.
- 500+ GSM: Heavyweight doonas, ideal for winter or colder regions.
Consider your local climate and personal warmth preferences when selecting a doona. If you experience varying temperatures throughout the year, you may want to invest in both a summer-weight and a winter-weight doona for optimal comfort.
How to Choose the Right Bed Spread?
Your choice of bedspread—whether a quilt, doona, or coverlet—should complement your sleeping needs and bedroom style. Here’s how to decide:
- Climate: Opt for a lightweight coverlet in warm weather, a breathable quilt for mild temperatures, or a doona for maximum warmth in winter.
- Layering Preferences: If you love a layered, styled bed, a coverlet or quilt gives you the flexibility to layer additional blankets and throws on top.
- Maintenance: Doonas require covers that need washing, while quilts and coverlets can be cleaned less frequently.
- Aesthetic: Choose textures and colours that enhance your bedroom decor, whether you prefer a minimalist, luxurious, or cosy look.
- Size: If you prefer a standard look to your bedspread, be sure to choose the corresponding size for your mattress. Ie, a queen-size doona for a queen-sized bed. If however, you prefer an oversized look, you can up-size your bedspread to hang over the sides of your bed, creating a cosy, lived-in feel.
Whether you choose a quilt, doona or coverlet, make sure to shop the entire range of bed covers from MyHouse to make your bedroom a calming and revitalising space for every night's sleep.
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