Duvet vs comforter – what's the difference and which is best for you?

Duvet vs comforter: the debate rages on. Some people prefer the versatility of a duvet, while others appreciate the simplicity of a comforter, but still more believe that duvets and comforters are the same thing.

It's an easy mistake to make, but there are key distinctions between duvets and comforters that will make all the difference to your bedspread.

As the resident Sleep Editor at Homes & Gardens, I lead a team of expert testers in the search to find the world's best duvet inserts and comforters, so I can tell you the pros and cons of each item. To save you time and money, I've combed through our back catalog of reviews and searched the best places to buy bedding, bringing you duvets and comforters to suit every sleep style. You can cross-reference any unfamiliar terms against my bedding jargon buster.

Duvet vs comforter − which is best for you?

Before we begin, it always helps to define our terms. The difference between a duvet and a comforter is that a duvet comprises two detachable pieces – an insert and a cover – while a comforter is one integrated piece.

Duvets – the pros and cons

Duvets tend to be more expensive than comforters, but that's because they're often filled with higher-quality materials, including down and feather, rather than cheap and cheerful synthetic substitutes.

Duvets consist of inserts and covers, attached with corner loops and ties or secured with buttons or poppers. You can switch your duvet cover with the seasons or as your aesthetic evolves, offering greater versatility.

Because the insert and the cover are separable, duvets are also easier to clean than comforters. You can throw your duvet cover into the washer and dryer along with the rest of your sheets. Since your skin doesn't touch the insert, it will take much longer for dust and dirt to build up inside your duvet.

Comforters − the pros and cons

Your average comforter is far more affordable than a duvet, but that's why it's all the more important to be discerning when you're shopping. Try to steer clear of cheap synthetic fibers and fills in favor of natural materials, such as wool and cotton, to soothe your skin, regulate your temperature, and wick away moisture.

Compared with duvets, comforters are harder to keep clean. In the absence of a detachable cover or case, you'll have to squeeze the entire comforter inside your washing machine drum when you want to clean it. If you want to keep your comforter cleaner for longer, you could try sleeping with a flat sheet between your body and the rest of your bedding.

Also, because you can't alter the look and feel of your comforter by changing the cover, I recommend you opt for a classic shade, such as white or cream, to complement any color palette.

To get the best of both worlds, you can try using a comforter in a duvet cover. Since you won't find any corner loops and ties, you'll need to try another way to secure your comforter. I suggest you try the bedding burrito trend.

As a general rule, I'd recommend comforters for buyers on a budget, and duvets for anybody who wants more control over the look and feel of their bedspread. Browse the best places to buy comforters to inspire your thinking.