Quilts, Doonas, Duvets, and Comforters - What's the difference?

Choosing the right bedding can greatly impact the quality of your sleep and overall comfort. To start with, duvets, doonas and quilts are essentially the same thing, it just depends what you call it in your country.

Among the plethora of options available, doonas and comforters stand out as two popular choices. While they might seem similar at first glance, there are notable differences between the two that can influence your decision. 

1. Construction and Layers:

   • Comforters typically have two layers of fabric stitched together, enclosing a layer of filling, which can be down, feathers, synthetic fibers, or a combination.
   • Doonas consist of a soft outer shell, usually made of cotton or linen, and they're designed to be used with a separate quilt cover. The filling of a winter weight quilt is often denser, thicker and heavier than that of a comforter, the more luxurious ones being made of duck down/feathers and wool. Summer weight quilts can also be made of wool or cotton and are generally cooler and even lighter than the poly-fill comforters. 

2. Versatility:

   • Comforters are standalone bedding pieces, ready to use straight out of the packaging. They come in various thicknesses and are often decorative, featuring patterns and designs.
   • Doonas offer more versatility as they can be used with different inserts to adjust warmth according to seasons. In warmer weather, you can use a lightweight insert, while in colder months, a thicker one provides added warmth.

3. Aesthetics:

   • Comforters are often chosen for their decorative appeal, with a wide range of colours, patterns, and styles to complement any bedroom decor. On the other hand your options are limited to the design and thickness of the one you purchase.
   • Doonas offer a large variety of looks. Just find a quilt cover design you like and go from there. It allows you to change the style of your bedding easily without having to replace the entire doona.

4. Maintenance:

   • Comforters are relatively easy to care for as they can be machine-washed and dried, although larger comforters may require a trip to the laundromat for use of industrial-sized machines. We recommend making the bed with a flat sheet to keep the comforter cleaner for longer.
   • Doonas are typically easier to clean because you use a quilt cover with it, which can be removed and laundered separately. This makes it convenient to wash only the insert when necessary, saving you time and effort. Though you can also use a flat sheet reduce the amount of washes for your quilt cover to keep it looking fresher for longer.

Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference and specific needs. Whether you opt for the simplicity of a comforter or the versatility of a doona, investing in quality bedding is essential for a good night's sleep.