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What’s the Difference Between a Duvet and a Comforter

A person sits under a duvet while holding a coffee mug.
Ground Picture/Shutterstock.com

If you’re a little confused about the difference between a duvet and a comforter, you’re not alone. These bedding terms are often used interchangeably, but there are some key differences to tell them apart.

In the duvet versus comforter debate, knowing the difference can help you ensure you have the most comfortable bedding that suits your personal sleep preferences.

A comforter is a type of blanket that is typically made from a single piece of fluffy fabric, filled with down or synthetic fibers, and then stitched into place. On the other hand, a duvet is a soft, flat bag that’s then filled with down, feathers, or synthetic fibers, and it typically has a duvet cover to go with it.

Essentially, a comforter is a thick, cozy blanket while a duvet is a giant pillow and blanket hybrid that needs a cover to protect it.

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So why the confusion between the two? In some parts of the world, the terms “duvet” and “comforter” are used interchangeably. In the US, we tend to use “comforter” to describe a standalone bedding item and “duvet” to refer to the combination of the pillow-like blanket and cover.

As for which is best, the choice between a duvet and a comforter is up to your personal preference. Comforters are typically easier to care for since they don’t require a separate cover, while duvets can be more customizable since you can swap out covers to change up the look of your bedding.

So whether you’re team duvet or team comforter, the most important thing is to choose bedding that you find comfortable and stylish.

Abbey Ryan Abbey Ryan
Abbey Ryan is a storyteller, preferably of stories in written form. Across the 5 years of her professional writing career, her work has been featured in The Chicago Tribune, Amazon, The Medical News Today, and more. When she's not writing (which is rare), she's likely traveling, painting, or on the hunt for a good snack. Read Full Bio »
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