Quilt vs Comforter: What's the Difference?
Written by Nectarsleep editorial team
Last Updated on Jan 17, 2023
To fall asleep quickly in winters, all you need is comfortable bedding. Quilt and comforters are the two most popular types of beddings. Although different in nature, most people consider them the same.
So, in this article, we’ll highlight the differences between the two and which one you should choose over the other and why.
What Is a Quilt?
A quilt is a sleek and lightweight three-layered bedding that consists of a top, bottom, and stuffing inside. The top layer is a decorative layer made using various pieces of fabrics sewn together, and the inside stuffing is usually made from wool or down fabric.
Both the top and bottom are made with cotton, making it breathable. Hence, quilts are ideal for those who sleep hot or wake up sweaty at night. Quilts are also tidy bedding styles as these are sleek or thin in look.
Commonly used over beds for decorative purposes, Quilts can be used over blankets or comforters for more warmth.
Traditionally, quilts were stitched with hands and passed down through generations. At present, these are mostly stitched using machines as the process gets it done faster and easier.
Pros:
- Lightweight and sleek
- Breathable
- Easy to store and carry
Cons:
- Thin, not ideal for heavy winters
- Delicate to wash and might require dry cleaning
What Is a Comforter?
Although comforters are also designed to be put over the bedsheets, they are thicker and filled with stuffing. Generally, down (made of duck or goose feathers) or down alternative material (synthetic fiber) is used for best comforters.
Comforters give you a fluffy, cloud-like feel. But at the same time, it can make the hot sleepers sweat at night. You can check out different comforter sizes here.
Pros:
- Warmer than a quilt, making it ideal for chilly winters
- It can be put in covers for protective and aesthetic reasons
Cons:
- Not suitable for hot sleepers
- May get damaged while machine-washing
- Too bulky and uneasy to carry
Difference Between Quilts and Comforters
| Basis | Quilts | Comforters |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Light and soft | Heavier |
| Warranty | Varies | Varies |
| Cost | Higher | Lower |
| Maintenance | High | Medium to high |
| Durability | Less durable | More durable |
| Style | Seek, colorful | Fluffy, single color |
| Purpose | Decorative | Warmth and Comfort |
| Storage | Easy | Difficult |
Although both quilts and comforters serve a somewhat similar purpose, the main difference between a quilt and a comforter is with respect to its material.
But that’s not all; below are a few critical differences between quilts and comforters that will help you make the right choice.
Material
Quilts are made with light and soft layers with a thick and soft filling inside. Comforters are usually heavier and have more down filling inside, providing warmth.
Thus, quilts are suitable for hot sleepers, and comforters are ideal for cold sleepers.
Warranty
Warranty is an essential factor you should consider before investing in bedding. The good thing? You can get replacements for comforters if they get damaged while washing (and the label permitted so). When buying either of the two, make sure to check the replacement policy and warranty.
Cost
When it comes to pricing, it’s not about a quilt or comforter. The cost for both quilts and comforters can significantly vary based on the quality. On average, quilts are more expensive than comforters as they are primarily hand-stitched, thereby raising the cost of production.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, a comforter with down alternative filling would be an ideal choice that would last for years.
Maintenance
Comforters should be handled with care based on the instructions mentioned on the label; you can wash them gently in a washing machine.
Although some people wash quilts in washing machines, experts warn against it as they vary in material, and some can be damaged. You can wash quilts by hand or as per the instructions on the label.
Durability
Quilts last up to 15 years, and comforters last up to 25 years though it varies as per the quality and pricing.
Style
The quilts are made using a variety of colors and patterns stitched together. Also, they are sleek in look. Whereas, comforters are made using a single type of fabric or print and are more cloudly and fluffy.
Purpose
Quilts are mostly used as a throw or decorative blanket for aesthetic purposes. Comforters, however, are mostly used for warmth during chilly winters.
Storage
As quilts are lightweight and sleek in look, these can be easily stored. Comforters are mostly fluffy and heavier and thus can be challenging to keep or require more space.
Who Should Prefer a Quilt?
Consider investing in a quilt if:
- You’re a hot sleeper or someone who experiences night sweats as quilts have less insulation and are thin & light in weight. For warm sleepers, comforters might be too heavy and cause sweat.
- You’re looking to buy for summers, as these do not provide much warmth and keep you cooler.
- If you wish to buy it for decorative purposes since the top layer of quilts is made using several colorful pieces with different patterns.
- You prefer multiple or heavy layers of bedding as these aren’t much warm and they would require you to put them over a comforter or blanket for chilly winters. The quilt will provide you with a smoother sensation.
- If you’re looking to give your bed a rustic touch.
Who Should Prefer a Comforter?
Consider investing in a comforter if:
- You’re a cold sleeper or someone who feels sensitive to cold. This is because comforters are known for their insulation capabilities.
- You live in a cold climate or want it for chilly winters because comforters are made using duck or goose feathers that provide warmth to people who can’t stand cold nights.
- If you prefer soft and fluffy bedding over sleek ones.
- You prefer lesser and lighter layers of bedding.
- You love wearing animal products or feel comfortable with their soft and gentle sensation, and you’re not allergic to them.
- If you want to give your bed a luxurious and comfortable look.
Irrespective of what you choose — a quill or a comforter, your focus should be on making the best bedding choice based on your requirements and personality to pick the best.
In general, quits are ideal for hot sleepers or summers, and comforters are great for colder months or more warmth.
Make sure to read the product descriptions well before making a choice because both come in various styles and fabrics when it comes to comforter vs. quilt. And none is perfect for everyone.
