Quilt vs Comforter: Which Is Best for Your Sleep?

In this fast-paced world, a good night’s sleep seems like the ultimate luxury.

As such, it’s no wonder why the bedding market has enormously grown in years.

Your bedding can make or break your sleep quality.

From simple blankets and bedsheets to intricate quilts, comforters, and duvets, things can get very much confusing.

When choosing between a quilt vs comforter, which will come out the winner?

It would be best if you take the time to understand their similarities, differences, and uses so that you end up buying the right product.

In this guide, we’ll go deeper into the complex world of quilts and comforters.

By the end of this post, you should be able to decide which one is best for you.

What Is a Comforter?

A comforter is a thick bedding topper filled with either down or a synthetic alternative.

It is then sewn or quilted to keep the filling in place.

The amount and type of fill affect the overall quality of a comforter.

For example, comforters made of down are generally softer, lighter, and warmer than those made with synthetic fills.

Nonetheless, down alternative comforters have good features, too.

They are hypoallergenic, easy to clean, and significantly lesser in price as compared to down comforters.

Comforters are the most popular bedding toppers sold in the U.S.

They come in just about any theme, color, style, and design, but one thing they have in common is the grid-like stitching.

While it certainly adds to the look and feel of the bedding topper, the stitching is purposely done to keep the fill in place.

Does a Quilt Go Over a Comforter?

You can put a quilt over a comforter to create some layered look and feel on your bedding, although it’s going to be extra warm.

If you choose to layer a comforter with a quilt, choose a much lighter quilt so as not to reduce the fluffiness of your comforter.

What Is Quilt Used For?

While generally considered a bed topper, you can use a quilt for other purposes, mostly decorative.

You can drape your couch with a quilt, do a bit of tucking, and you’ve got it.

You can also hang it on the wall or use it as a table runner or tablecloth.

A quilt is a multi-layered textile traditionally made through quilting, hence the name.

Still, most quilt blankets these days are no longer quilted but instead sewn.

That’s because the whole process of quilting can be tremendously long and complicated.

A quilt is made of two or more layers of fabric.

Commonly, three layers are used: the top, inner batting, and bottom layer.

The top layer is where most of the hard work comes in.

Different pieces of fabric are stitched together to create the top layer of a quilt, resulting in a visually appealing surface with intricate patterns.

Like comforters, quilts come in a myriad of themes, styles, and colors, but they offer more versatility in terms of design.

Traditional quilts usually feature natural patterns, such as the classic bear paw, flying geese, log cabin, and patchwork.

More than anything, these designs are sure to make you feel nostalgic for the good old days.

Is a Quilt Good for Summer?

Quilts are thinner and lighter than comforters, so they make an excellent alternative to comforters during the summer season.

You can choose between cotton or an all-seasons wool quilt if you prefer a heavier sheet.

What’s the Difference Between Comforter and Quilt?

Just by looking at how a quilt and a comforter are made, you’ll be able to tell the difference.

However, there’s more to this than meets the eye.

Insulation

A notable difference between a comforter and a quilt is the thickness.

Comforters are generally thicker and loftier than quilts, which means they tend to be warmer.

Some of the best comforters are as soft and fluffy as clouds.

Depending on the amount and type of fill used, a comforter can offer hefty insulation during the winter.

Quilts, on the other hand, are more flattish.

Yes, they contain down or synthetic fills but not as much as comforters do.

Since they are thinner, quilts provide less insulation.

As such, if you are a hot sleeper or live in a warmer region, this bed topper is a great choice.

Uses

Comforters and quilts are strikingly different when you look at their uses.

In terms of function, quilts are more versatile.

You’re only going to use a comforter for your bed when napping or sleeping.

Modern quilts are not always intended to be used for bedding.

They are also widely used as decorative covers, from wall hangings to table runners and tablecloths.

You can also use a quilt to give your couch a facelift.

As you can see, quilts have more of a decorative purpose.

During winter, when you benefit more from your comforter, you can use a quilt to accessorize your home.

Style and Look

Even though comforters are available in different colors, you’ll hardly find a comforter with intricate patterns or designs.

Quilts can be very stylish and add a pop of color and texture to your bedroom décor.

If you want to change the look of your bed, layering it with a quilt is a great idea.

Whether you want a rustic, elegant, or casual look, it’s easy to find the design that matches your room.

Is a Quilt Better Than a Comforter?

Quilts and comforters are different in many aspects, so it’s hard to say which one is better.

You should always take into account your needs and preferences when deciding between a quilt and a comforter.

A quilt is a better option for hot sleepers, those who like to sleep under several layers of blankets, and those who prefer a more stylish topper for their bed.

Which Is Right for You?

In a battle between a comforter vs quilt, who wins? Well, it depends.

You may want to consider a quilt if:

• Your purpose is to beautify your bed. After all, it’s your happy place!
• You get sweaty and uncomfortable under thick blankets or comforters. Or, it’s always warm where you live.
• You’re a fan of layers, and you love tucking yourself under several pieces of bed covers or blankets.
• You like all things stylish. Quilts are popular for their intricate designs.
• If you fancy unique, colorful bed toppers or layers, a quilt perfectly fits the bill.

A comforter might be what you need if:

• You like thick, soft, and fluffy blankets.
• You get cold easily.
• You prefer a simpler, non-layered look for your bed. You can use a comforter as it is.

Since it’s already thick, you may no longer need a blanket underneath unless it’s super chilly.

If you like a simpler topper for your bed, it’s the way to go.

Duvet vs Comforter vs Quilt

Now that you know the difference between comforter and quilt, you might be curious about how they compare with a duvet.

A comforter and a duvet are often used interchangeably because they are so similar.

Their most significant distinction is that a duvet is designed to be tucked inside a duvet cover.

Some people choose duvets because they are a lot easier to care for.

Duvets are like pillows. The cushioning doesn’t get dirty, so you don’t have to clean it as frequently.

The duvet cover is thin and easy to wash.

Its cousin comforter, as you know, is thick, soft, and features a single structure.

Just plop it on your bed, and you’re good to go.

When it comes to choosing between a duvet vs comforter, most prefer duvets.

After all, it’s easier to change your bedding look and style with it.

Simply change the cover, and you have a completely different covering.

The only problem is, comforters are much warmer, so they are an excellent choice for colder months.

Tips When Buying Quilts and Comforters

Generally speaking, both comforters and quilts are classified as bedding toppers.

While they have more of a decorative purpose, they can also function as blankets or bed sheets, giving you extra warmth and coziness during chilly nights.

Whether you’re buying a quilt or a comforter, you want to make sure you’re getting a good-quality one.

Here are some tips when buying throw blankets, quilts, and comforters:

Check what they are made of

When shopping for either a quilt or a comforter, the first thing you want to check is the quality.

These bed toppers can be made from different materials, from luxury down to more affordable synthetic fibers, like cotton or polyester.

Choose a quilt or a comforter that will give you long-term comfort.

Consider the warmth

A major consideration when choosing a covering is the warmth it provides.

Lighter blankets and quilts are perfect for moderate climates, while comforters are ideal for colder climates.

When shopping for comforters, note that they have different fill powers (measurement of fluff or loft).

Some comforters are lighter and more breathable. Choose a higher fill power if you prefer a warmer blanket.

Comforter vs Quilt

So, which is better: a quilt vs comforter?

Now that you know their similarities and differences, as well as what conditions each one is more preferable, you should be able to make a decision.

Can you have both? Most definitely.

There’s nothing wrong with having two types of bed toppers.

You can switch them up depending on the weather or layer them for extra warmth, coziness, and style.

It’s all up to you!