Win Two $1000 Bed Threads gift cards l Enter Now

Win Two $1000 Bed Threads gift cards l Enter Now

Free Shipping Over $100 & Easy Returns | 49,000+ 5-Star Reviews

What’s the Difference Between a Quilt, a Duvet, and a Bed Cover? We Break It Down

Confused about the difference between a quilt, a duvet, and a bed cover? We set the record straight.

If you’ve ever wondered about the difference between a quilt, a duvet, and a bed cover is, you’re not alone. But if you want to get the best sleep of your life (and give your bedroom that dreamy Instagram aesthetic!), you need to know your coverlets from your comforters and your quilts from your duvets.

Your duvet – or doona – is the thick blanket filled with natural or synthetic material such as down, feathers, wool, silk or synthetic fibres that you put inside a duvet cover. These can range from light summer options to super-warm wintery ones, and will likely be one of the largest investments you’ll make when building your dream bedroom.

Quilts, on the other hand, are a layer that goes on top of your usual bedding. And while we’re not opposed to ‘grandma chic’ or cottagecore vibes, the quilts of tomorrow have become a must-have in modern bedrooms of every style.

Bed covers, also known as Heavy Linen Bed Covers, are large bedding pieces designed to cover the entire surface and drape over the sides of your bed. They’re lightweight and usually made from a single layer of fabric, making them warm enough to layer up in winter and cool enough to use alone in summer.

Below, we take a look at the difference between a quilt, a duvet, and a bed cover – and how layering them together can help create the cosy bed of your dreams.

Oatmeal Quilt
A minimalist room features a neatly made bed with two pillows and the Bed Threads Oatmeal Linen Quilt, set against a plain white wall atop a dark wooden floor.
The Bed Threads Oatmeal Linen Quilt, in light beige, is neatly folded and placed on a dark wooden floor against a plain white wall.
A cozy bedroom features a large bed with the Bed Threads Cacao 100% French Flax Linen Flat Sheet, a padded headboard, sheer curtains on the window, palm tree art above the bed, and is filled with warm natural light.
A minimalist bedroom features the Bed Threads Oatmeal Linen Quilt on a beige bed with two pillows, set against an arched wall. A moon-shaped wall sculpture and a vase of greenery on a wooden nightstand complete the calming neutral look.
A neatly made bed with beige French flax linen and Bed Threads’ Oatmeal Quilted Pillowcases (Set of Two) stands against a rustic wooden wall. A tree stump bedside table holds a branch in a vase and a glass of water, with a wooden bench at the foot.
Add to Cart 87 Add to Wishlist View Wishlist
Add to Cart
Oatmeal Quilt
$449.95 - $489.95 $449.00 - $489.00 $500.00 - $520.00

What is a quilt?

A quilt is a thick and fluffy blanket made up of multiple layers of fabric that have been stitched together. It’s a bit like a sandwich with a soft filling stitched between two lighter outers. But don’t get confused… A quilt isn’t a duvet or doona insert, but rather a beautiful aesthetic piece that will add some plushness and drama to your bedroom.

Think of it as a warm and snuggly masterpiece that adds another layer of cozy to your space. And as with all great designs, a good quilt looks just as desirable when not in use, so strew one over your bed for that artful, magazine-styled look.

Do you need a quilt?

While a quilt might not be a bedding essential, they’re becoming a must-have for those looking to take their bedroom to the next level.

Here are some reasons why a quilt will elevate your bedroom and improve your sleep:


Do you need a bed cover?

Bed covers aren't necessarily a bedding essential, but if you're wanting to add a luxurious touch to your bedroom, a Heavy Linen Bed Cover is a simple and effective way to do so.

Here are some reasons why a bed cover will elevate your bedroom:


The verdict?

A quilt, a duvet, and a bed cover might seem similar, but they serve different roles in building your dream bedroom. While a duvet is a bedding essential, a quilt and bed cover are really, really, really nice to have. They'll add luxe drama to your bedroom, help you stay at the right temperature all year round and diffuse the age-old argument about who is hogging the bedding.

Enjoyed This?

Discover more linen content.

Explore Bedding

Welcome to Bed Threads

It looks like you’re in Australia. Enjoy…

  • Free shipping over $100-wide
  • Easy returns
  • Plus, subscribe for 10% off your first order