Are you confused about whether to buy a duvet, comforter or weighted blanket? And what exactly are the differences anyway? While these bed covers have similarities, they are all quite different.

Getting the right bedding is essential for a good night’s sleep. If you’re too hot or too cold, this can lead to a restless night and a lowered performance the next day.

So, instead of guessing what bed cover to get, this article is going to explain what duvets, comforters and weighted blankets are, any pros/cons and which is best for you depending on your needs.

What is a Duvet?

A duvet is a large, soft, covering bag filled with a material such as feathers, wool, fur or a synthetic alternative. The duvet is protected with a duvet cover, that can be easily removed and laundered. The purpose of a duvet is to keep you warm at night while you sleep.

What is a Comforter?

A comforter is very similar to a duvet. It’s a kind of bed cover made from an insulating material such as cotton, wool, bamboo or silk. The filling can be made from fur, wool, silk or feathers. A comforter provides warmth at night while sleeping, just like a duvet.

Difference Between a Duvet and a Comforter

A comforter comes ready to use after purchase – it does not need a duvet cover. A duvet has an insert that is filled with an insulating material. It needs a duvet cover to be placed over the top for protection.

Pros and Cons of Duvets and Comforters

Pros

• TOG rated. TOG (thermal overall grade) relates to the level of insulation the duvet or comforter provides. This gives you control, allowing you to choose a rating depending on whether you are a hot or cold sleeper.
• Relatively cheap. Duvets and comforters can be purchased at a range of price points. Even on a budget, you can find a quality option.

Cons

• Comforters are hard to clean. Because comforters are used without a cover, cleaning the whole thing can be a struggle. This is where duvets are a better option, allowing you to remove the cover to wash.
• Might need to change TOG ratings for each season. If you live in a place with changing temperatures, you may need to buy multiple duvets with different TOG ratings.

What is a Weighted Blanket?

Weighted blankets are similar to normal blankets but a lot heavier. The weight comes from a filler material such as poly pellets, glass beads or weighted discs. They are used as a tool to aid a deep night’s sleep and some say they even have a therapeutic effect.

Pros and Cons of Weighted Blankets

Pros

• Improved sleep quality. Alongside keeping you warm, weighted blankets can improve sleep quality and reduce insomnia.
• Reduce anxiety. In a previous study, 63% reported a reduction in anxiety symptoms and 78% found the added weight to be calming.
• Customizable. Choose a weighted blanket that suits you including the material, size and filler.
• May alleviate some medical conditions. Study has shown weighted blankets to have positive effects for those with autism, ADHD, depression and restless leg syndrome.

Cons

• More expensive. A downside to using a weighted blanket is they are pricier.

From the information gathered above, we can see that weighted blankets are more beneficial than duvets or comforters. If you suffer from anxiety, insomnia or a medical condition, a weighted blanket could be a good option.

If you’re just looking to keep warm and want a budget friendly option, you can’t go wrong with a duvet or comforter. Whatever you choose, try the BetterSleep App to improve sleep health.