The Difference Between Coverlets & Comforters

Comforter Definition

• The purpose of comforters is to provide warmth. Traditionally, they were folded and laid at the foot of the bed. When you felt cold, you simply reached for the comforter, unfolded it and used it over your existing bedding. Modern day comforters may have a thickness of up to six inches with a natural or synthetic filling that adds even more warmth.

Coverlet Definition

• Historically, a coverlet has been used more as a decorative object than a functional one. Bedspreads are a type of coverlet. The bedspread offers some warmth, though they are typically not as heavy duty as comforters. Quilts are another type of coverlet, be it a handmade quilt or a machine-made quilt. Homeowners made quilts from leftover and inexpensive pieces of fabric. In some instances, a thick layer of batting gave the coverlet more warmth, similar to a comforter.

Comforter vs. Coverlet

• A comforter is thicker than a coverlet, but typically not as large. Comforters may reach the bottom of the mattress, but a dust ruffle is often used around the bottom, which covers the box spring. If you are using a comforter as the main covering for your bed, you may elect to put pillows around the top of the bed. Generally, a coverlet is thinner and longer than a comforter. Depending on the manufacturer, the coverlet may completely cover the bed and reach just above the floor.

Considerations

• A duvet is similar to a comforter in that it has the same thickness and size and is meant to provide warmth. The main difference is that a duvet is thicker and has a softer texture, as it is often filled with down. Duvets typically require hand washing or dry cleaning, due to the stuffing inside. A duvet cover slides over the duvet to protect it and provide a decorative element.