Duvet Versus Comforter: Which Will Serve You Better

For many years, Americans stayed fairly loyal to classic comforters.  Ranging in size and weight, they were the preferred method of staying warm overnight.  However, as travel has increased, citizens of this country have come to appreciate some of the European ways of doing things.  This is definitely true when it comes to bedding.  The habit of tossing the top sheet and turning to duvets with covers as opposed to a comforter has crossed the sea with the Americans coming home. 

That being said, if you are in the market for new bedding, you might unsure what would be a better fit for you.  There isn’t a right or wrong answer.  In fact, there are pros and cons to both comforters and microfiber duvets.  However, these common comments and concerns may help you make your decision.

The Washing Machine Dance If you have found yourself wrestling with your comforter and washing machine in the past, then you are not alone and you might be wise to choose a duvet.  One of the nicest parts about duvets is the cover than encloses them.  The cover then takes the abuse and the duvet within doesn’t have to be washed. This is an especially big selling point for pet owners who find that they have to wash bedding far more often due to shedding.

Varying WeightDuvets come in a wide variety of weights to offer more warmth in the winter and less in the summer.  This is important to those who want the varying weight, but don’t want to change the look of their top blanket.  The insert can be removed and the duvet cover can remain the same year round.  On the other hand, for those who want to switch up the look frequently, duvet covers are more affordable than comforters and take up far less storage space. Additionally, the covers can be used with other types of blanket to create even lighter weight top blankets, cooler even than a summer duvet.

Size and Stuff So, what is the downside to duvets?  Many people dislike having to stuff them into a cover each time they want to change the bedding.  It can be a challenging process for a single person.  There are also complaints issued about the size of duvets.  Queen size box spring owners will be okay, as they can simply choose a king size duvet for added overhang, but those with a king sized bed can find duvets lacking.

What is the Best Duvet for Summer Weather?

No one wants to be under a big, heavy duvet during the summer, but most of us still want something to sleep under. Luckily, there are thinner duvets that look just as nice and cozy, but without all the weight and heat.

To keep cool during those hot summer months, opt for a thin silk or satin duvet. Unlike cotton, polyester, and microfiber, silk and satin are not very absorbent or insulating. This means they won’t trap your body heat near your body. (This is what you want in the winter, but not in the summer.) This also means they will remain cool to the touch much longer.

Aside from the fabric the duvet is made off, you should also consider the filling. It also affects how warm the duvet will be. Down, which is made of goose feathers, is the go-to choice for thick, winter duvets, but it is absolutely wrong for a summer duvet. Down alternative, which is a less expensive faux version of down, should also be avoided. It is better to stick to a lightweight cotton or polyester filling.

Also, you want to make sure the luxury duvet has a thin layer of filling. If you are buying the duvet in person, be sure to feel the thickness. If your finger sinks down into the fabric, it is probably too thick, but if your finger only makes a small indentation, that is probably a better choice. If you are purchasing online, check to see if there is a depth measurement. This will let you know how thick the filling is. If the depth isn’t shown, feel free to ask the seller. He or she should have no problem sharing this information.

Summer microfibre duvets are cooling, but still thick enough to make you feel covered, comfortable and safe. They are a great investment and a must have for anyone who lives in a warm environment.

What is a Summer Duvet?

Being wrapped in warmth and feeling embraced against the chill of the air is an extremely alluring thought in the middle of a cold winter. It is not so appealing when the mercury rises! At the same time, many people like to have a layer of comfort even during the warmer months. A summer duvet offers the perfect lightweight option.

What is the difference between a summer and winter duvet? Much of it has to do with the tog. Tog is a measurement of an item’s thermal resistance. A lightweight duvet, perfect for spring or summer, is between 3 and 4.5 tog, while a winter version is between 12 and 13.5 tog. As you can see, the higher the tog, the warmer the comforter.

A microfibre duvet with a rating of 3 or 4 tog offers lightweight protection against summer night chills or a robust air-conditioning unit. But the primary reason that people want a duvet at night is for a feeling of comfort. There is something about lying on a bed, unprotected by our duvets, that leaves us feeling vulnerable! We want to be cozy, not stifled. A lightweight duvet helps us get the right balance.

Microfibre is an ideal choice because it breathes very well and will not trap moisture. You will feel cool and refreshed all night while wrapped (lightly and loosely) in silky, smooth comfort. Your summer comforter will have all the benefits of your winter version, including wonderful texture, durability, ease of care, and understated beauty. If you suffer from allergies, you will sleep better knowing that microfibre is anti-allergenic as well. This is important for those whose allergies flair up seasonally.

king size duvet are not just for winter anymore. They can offer exceptional comfort any time of year.