Duvet Vs. Comforter: Which Bed Cover Is Right for You?

PureWow editors select every item that appears on this page, and the company may earn compensation through affiliate links within the story. All prices are accurate upon date of publish. You can learn more about the affiliate process here .

Trying to pick between a cozy down duvet or a lightweight comforter that will keep you cool ? (And for that matter, what’s the difference between a duvet and a comforter, anyway?) I asked Joshua Jones, the principal designer at JJones Design Co., for his expertise on just that. Below, find a full breakdown of duvets vs. comforters, plus his advice on how to choose the right one for your sleep style.

Meet the Expert

Joshua Jones is the founder and principal designer of JJones Design Co. , a Seattle-based virtual interior design firm specializing in residential, commercial and hospitality spaces. He holds a BFA degree in interior design from the Art Institute of Seattle and is known for translating his clients' needs and personal style into designs that emphasize functionality.

First, What Is a Duvet Insert?

Parachute

A duvet is a blanket-like layer that’s designed to be inserted into a separate cover (think of it like a pillow and pillowcase). They typically feature a baffle box construction, which essentially creates pockets for the inside fill, preventing it from moving or shifting. “Duvets are great because you can easily remove the cover and wash it, which makes keeping your bedding fresh a breeze,” explains Jones. It’s also worth mentioning that the word “duvet” comes from the French word for down—which is why down and down alternative inserts tend to be the most popular (but more on that below).

What Makes a Comforter Different?

Boll & Branch

Like a duvet insert, comforters feature an outer shell (usually cotton or bamboo) with interior fill. Unlike an insert, however, a comforter is a single piece of bedding—it’s more of a what you see is what you get situation. “A comforter is a traditional all-in-one solution that combines the fill and cover in one piece,” Jones says. The outer shell is designed to look and perform like a duvet cover—often available in numerous patterns and colors—but comforters tend to be thinner and lay flatter on the bed, since it combines two functions into one.

So, What’s the Big Difference Between a Duvet and a Comforter?

Basically, if a comforter is a five-minute bedding recipe, a duvet is more of a bedding ingredient. The biggest difference is how they’re put together—a comforter is one piece, while a duvet has two: the insert and the cover. “With a duvet, you have the flexibility to change your bedroom’s look just by switching the cover. A comforter, however, is less adaptable in terms of design but offers a simpler, more straightforward approach,” Jones explains.

But Can You Use a Comforter as a Duvet Insert?

Down to Basics

Here’s where many people get confused: comforters and duvet inserts tend to overlap in a few categories. “Comforters with baffle box construction are perfect for use as a duvet insert because the filling stays put, ensuring consistent warmth and fluffiness, even after being moved around,” says Jones. Meaning, most comforters with baffle box constructions are duvet inserts—they’re the same thing. Most down and down alternative comforters are designed this way, so they could be used as inserts. Cotton comforters, on the other hand, aren’t meant to be used as inserts because they lack the stitching that keeps the fill from shifting. Either way, when you see a baffle box weave (shown above) it’s almost guaranteed to have corner loops that will allow you to use the comforter as a duvet insert.

A Guide to the Different Types of Comforter and Duvet Materials

1. Down

Coyuchi

Down comforters are filled with fluffy under feathers from ducks or geese, so they’re known for providing great insulation without a weighty feel. “A high-fill-powered down comforter gives you maximum warmth without making your bed feel heavy,” says Jones. This makes them perfect for colder climates or for anyone who loves a plush, cloud-like bed. Yet, while down’s natural insulation is one of the reasons it’s considered a luxurious choice—and comes at a higher price tag—it can be too warm for hot sleepers. "If you love that fluffy feel but tend to overheat, go for a lower fill power," advises Jones. Plus, while they’re durable and long-lasting, down is known to trigger flareups for people with allergies.

2. Down Alternative

Brooklinen

The beauty of down alternative is that it mimics the softness of down, but is filled with synthetic materials like polyester, so it’s hypoallergenic (and more affordable). “Down alternative comforters offer the same versatile warmth as down but without the allergens, making them a solid choice for those with sensitivities,” explains Jones. He also adds: “They’re a great option for hot sleepers because the synthetic materials tend to breathe better than traditional down.” So, while down alternative tends to be slightly heavier than true down, they’re a better option for allergy sufferers—or anyone who wants the feel of down without the high price tag.

3. Bamboo

Buffy

Bamboo comforters offer a silky smooth, lightweight feel, making them the go-to choice for hot sleepers who need breathable bedding . "Bamboo comforters have this amazing ability to feel cool against your skin while still providing just enough warmth," says Jones. What’s more, he says, "For anyone who overheats easily, bamboo is a game-changer. It’s incredibly breathable and helps regulate your body temperature better than most other fabrics." Not only is this thanks to its naturally moisture-wicking fibers—which help you stay dry throughout the night—but bamboo also carries an airy, luxurious softness that gives it a spa-like feel. “Its lightness ensures you won’t feel weighed down, even in warmer months.”

4. Cotton

Ralph Lauren

The only “true comforter” you can find is cotton—typically stand-alone pieces rather than duvet inserts. Cotton comforters are not only popular for their lightweight breathability, but they also tend to be ultra-affordable and available in an endless slew of design options (including bedding sets ). “Cotton comforters are great for those who want something light and easy to care for,” says Jones. And while they don’t provide as much warmth as down or wool, cotton is perfect for year-round use if you need something simple and low-maintenance. “They’re ideal for someone who wants comfort and convenience without sacrificing breathability—most tend to be washable,” Jones adds.

5. Wool

Piglet in a bed

Wool might sound like a strange choice for cooling, but it’s actually an excellent material for hot sleepers : “Wool is perfect for regulating temperature, especially if you sleep hot,” Jones backs. Thanks to wool’s natural moisture-wicking properties, it helps keep you dry, and it adapts to body temperature—you get warmth in the winter and cooling in the summer. Plus, while wool is heavier than down or cotton, these inserts offer long-lasting durability. “It’s a great choice if you need an all-season solution that keeps you comfortable no matter the weather.”

Other Duvet vs. Comforter Considerations to Make

Which Is Better for Hot Sleepers?

With the above materials in mind, bamboo and cotton are two of the best choices for hot sleepers. Bamboo, with its silky-smooth feel, is naturally moisture-wicking and breathable, making it ideal for regulating body temperature. Similarly, cotton comforters allow for excellent airflow, preventing heat buildup—and they’re perfect for year-round use. Down alternative and wool comforters also work well for hot sleepers but in different ways. Down alternative comforters, filled with synthetic materials, offer a balance between warmth and breathability. "Down alternatives are a great option for hot sleepers because the synthetic materials tend to breathe better than traditional down," explains Jones. Wool, though heavier, is also naturally temperature-regulating—it adapts to your body’s needs, cooling you down when necessary and wicking moisture away.

Otherwise, if you’re set on investing in a down comforter (that’ll still keep you cool), you’ll want to take a look at Jones’s guide to fill power:

How Do They Differ With Washability?

Getty images/ SergeyKlopotov

When it comes to cleanability, duvet inserts are the clear winner. The cover prevents you from having to wash it more than once a year (and most tend to be machine-washable, aside from down inserts). “One of the standout benefits of a duvet is that the cover can be easily removed and washed at home, much like your sheets,” says Jones. No need to wash the whole thing—just throw the cover in the wash, and you’re good to go. Comforters, on the other hand, can be a bit more of a hassle. They don’t fit easily into a standard washing machine, so you might need to hit the laundromat or even take it to the dry cleaner.

What About Durability and Longevity?

Over time, comforters can flatten out and lose their fluff. Jones explains, “Unlike a duvet insert that can be rejuvenated with a simple shake, a comforter may not regain its thickness and new feel.” So, if you want something that’ll last and keep that fresh, fluffy vibe, a duvet might be the better long-term investment.

The Bottom Line: Which Is Right for You?

Amazon/Boll & Brand

At the end of the day, bedding comes down to what you need. “If you’re looking for an all-in-one, easy-to-care-for bed cover with built-in style, a comforter might be your best bet,” Jones says. Yet, “With a duvet, you have the flexibility to change your bedroom’s look just by switching the cover.” Duvets are also great for those who prefer easy cleaning, since you can simply remove and wash the cover at home.

To that end, when it comes to comfort—and warmth level—a duvet might be the winner. "If you live in a climate with big seasonal changes, a duvet is better because you can adjust the warmth by swapping the insert or cover," Jones advises. But if you prefer a more affordable, ready-to-go option, a comforter could be the perfect fit: “It’s an easy choice for those who don’t want the extra step of managing a cover and insert—and they’re perfect if you want convenience/don’t mind less design flexibility.” Ultimately, it’s about finding the right balance between warmth, style, and ease of use.

The 20 Best Cooling Comforters For Hot Sleepers 2024

Why You Should Trust Us

PureWow's editors and writers have spent more than a decade shopping online, digging through sales and putting our home goods, beauty finds, wellness picks and more through the wringer—all to help you determine which are actually worth your hard-earned cash. From our PureWow100 series (where we rank items on a 100-point scale) to our painstakingly curated lists of fashion, beauty, cooking, home and family picks, you can trust that our recommendations have been thoroughly vetted for function, aesthetics and innovation. Whether you're looking for travel-size hair dryers you can take on-the-go or women’s walking shoes that won’t hurt your feet, we’ve got you covered.