Comforters and duvets are both common terms for lush
bedcoverings filled with down, feathers, cotton, wool, silk, or hypoallergenic synthetics. A duvet is a comforter without
a cover made to be encased in a removable duvet cover to protect the duvet and keep it clean. Duvet covers, also called "comforter
covers," are giant open-ended pillowcases that fit over a comforter. Duvet covers can be
closed by buttons, ties, or a zipper. They are designed to protect your investment
and a cover is easier to clean than a large comforter.
A duvet covered with a washable duvet cover eliminates blankets, a bedspread, and
perhaps even the top sheet from your bed-making routine. The cover acts as the top sheet (it should be laundered at least
weekly), thus allowing you to make the bed by giving the entire duvet a good shake and smoothing.
A cuddly goose down comforter is not just for people living in the Arctic. Down bedding products are available in a variety of weights, qualities, colors,
and sizes for a cool sleep or one that will warm you from the chilliest of night winds. Because down is so lightweight, it's
one of the most comfortable and sought after fills for a blanket or comforter.
Stitching on duvets is important since down needs room to loft, or puff up. Most
comforters are stitched with baffles, channels, or other stitching lines to keep the down evenly distributed throughout the
comforter. Without it the down can shift and bunch up, making it less effective for warmth. All comforters, regardless of
stitching patterns, should be shaken each morning to fluff and even out the filling.
With proper care, a down comforter will last 8 to 10 years. Goose
down is best because the large clusters have better (fluffing) than duck down. Although white and gray goose down
give the same service, gray may show through a light-colored duvet.
Down comforters used daily should be dry-cleaned at least annually.
Synthetic comforters generally can be machine washed following manufacturer's directions. If you own another type of natural-filled
comforter, such as wool or cotton, check the label or launder at a professional laundry that has larger-capacity machines
and experience in cleaning bedding.
