what to put inside a duvet cover

3 min read 25-12-2024

Knowing what goes inside a duvet cover might seem obvious, but there's more to it than just tossing in any blanket! This guide will clarify what belongs inside, how to choose the right filling, and answer common questions.

What is a Duvet Cover?

Before we dive into the contents, let's clarify what a duvet cover actually is. A duvet cover is a protective layer for your duvet or comforter. It's like a large pillowcase for your bedding's core filling. Using a duvet cover protects your duvet from spills, stains, and wear and tear, extending its lifespan and making laundry easier.

What Goes Inside a Duvet Cover?

The simple answer is: a duvet or comforter. But what's the difference?

Duvet: A duvet is a filled comforter. It typically contains down, feathers, synthetic fibers (like microfiber), or a blend. Duvets are designed to be used within a duvet cover.
Comforter: A comforter is a similar item, often quilted. While some comforters might be used with a duvet cover, many are designed to be used on their own.

Choosing the Right Duvet or Comforter

The best filling depends on your climate, personal preferences, and budget:

Down: Luxurious and warm, but can be expensive and require special cleaning.
Feathers: More affordable than down, but potentially less insulating.
Synthetic Fillings (Microfiber, Polyester): Budget-friendly, hypoallergenic, and easy to care for. Often a good alternative for those with allergies.

Consider these factors when choosing:

Warmth: How warm do you need your bedding to be? Down and feather fillings are generally warmer, while synthetics offer various warmth levels.
Allergies: Are you or anyone sharing your bed allergic to down or feathers? Synthetic fillings are often the best choice for allergy sufferers.
Budget: Down and feather duvets are typically the most expensive, while synthetic options are more budget-friendly.
Care: Down and feather duvets require specialized cleaning, often dry cleaning. Synthetics are typically machine washable.

What NOT to Put Inside a Duvet Cover

While a duvet or comforter is the intended content, avoid putting these inside your duvet cover:

Blankets: Blankets are best used on top of your bedding, not inside the duvet cover. They can bunch up and make it uncomfortable.
Sheets: Sheets belong underneath your duvet, not inside the cover.
Pillows: Keeping pillows inside a duvet cover is impractical and would make it bulky and difficult to manage.

How to Insert a Duvet into a Duvet Cover

Inserting a duvet can be tricky! Here's a simple method:

Lay the duvet cover flat, inside out.
Lay the duvet on top, aligning the corners.
Grab one corner of the duvet and the corresponding corner of the duvet cover.
Reach inside and grab the opposite corner of the duvet cover.
Pull the duvet cover right-side out, gently smoothing the duvet inside.
Zip or button the duvet cover closed.

Maintaining Your Duvet and Duvet Cover

Regularly washing your duvet cover will extend its life and keep your bedding fresh. Follow the care instructions on the label. Your duvet should be cleaned according to its specific instructions as well (often dry cleaning for down or feather).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a comforter in a duvet cover?

Yes, some comforters can be used inside a duvet cover. However, comforters are often designed to be used on their own without a cover. Consider if your comforter needs a protective layer before using it inside a duvet cover.

What size duvet cover do I need?

You need a duvet cover that matches the size of your duvet or comforter. Common sizes include twin, full, queen, and king.

Can I wash my duvet inside the duvet cover?

No, this is not recommended. Wash your duvet and duvet cover separately according to their individual care instructions.

By understanding what should go inside your duvet cover, and following the tips above, you'll enjoy a comfortable and well-maintained sleep system for years to come!