Blankets vs Duvets: Get The Best Sleep By Optimizing Your Bedding like a Pro

Many view Blankets as old-fashioned, while duvets are seen as the modern alternative to easy living. Beyond this distorted perception lie some sleep hygiene facts that may compel you to reimagine your lifestyle choices. Both blankets and duvets serve a common purpose, yet the sleep hygiene they offer is worlds apart. Read on to find out why. 

A blanket is a unique type of bed covering; however, the word “blanket” is used as a universal term that relates to the many different types of bed covers, excluding sheets, used for warmth and decorative purposes. Conventional blankets and duvets are included in the list below that give a basic rundown of the different types of blankets:

Coverlets are smaller than conventional blankets and are mainly used to spruce up the look of your bed. It is essentially a thin, lightweight throw used to cover the thick warm blanket on your bed from below the pillows and will not extend to the floor either. It can also be styled over a portion of the bed, but unlike a good throw, it offers very little in the way of warmth.

Quilts are also decorative bed coverings and are usually made in a patchwork pattern that may include different fabrics. Although quilt sizes vary, they are made with a dual function; aesthetics and warmth.

Afghans are knitted or crocheted squares called “granny squares” stitched together to form the blanket. Predominantly made from wool or other natural material of different colors, Afghans provide both warmth and a colorful bed cover that functions as a throw that can snuggle under while on your couch in front of the TV.

A comforter is a duvet inner and cover all in one and does not need a separate cover. This simplifies its use which is both decorative and for warmth. Unlike a duvet that may bundle up inside the cover, a comforter will maintain its shape like a conventional blanket. Comforters are made with a quilted fill that can be natural or synthetic. The fill type determines the thermodynamic and other characteristics of the comforter. 

A bedspread is an oversized coverlet designed to cover the entire bed and reach the floor. They are more for aesthetics than providing warmth, but some bedspreads are made thicker and provide extra warmth.

Electric blankets are small blankets that house a protected grid heating element that warms your bed while you sleep. It is designed to be placed in the middle of your bed beneath the fitted sheet and has a few temperature settings to suit your needs. Electric blankets can be hazardous if not checked regularly or switched off and unplugged when not in use. 

Weighted blankets were designed as a medical device to calm people with sensory issues. Weighted pellets are usually made from glass or are added to the blanket fill and quilted to evenly distribute the weight. They are warm, and the weight mimics being hugged, promoting calmness. These blankets come in different weights and sizes to fit the age and body type of the individual. Although snuggling under a weighted blanket is comforting, they are not designed for general use and is not used for babies and young children to avoid health risks. 

A throw is smaller and usually thinner and lighter than a conventional blanket. Throws are mainly used as decorative pieces in different areas of the home. They can be draped over beds, chairs, and couches, folded into wicker baskets, or displayed on a throw ladder in your living room. A throw is an easy-to-reach warmth item for both indoor and outdoor use. They are versatile, lightweight blankets that can be laid down for a picnic or used to cover your legs for a bit of warmth. Throw designs and colors make them a popular all-season must-have item in the home. Afghans are similar to throws but are larger and warmer, whereas coverlets are similar to throws in size and weight but are designed for a specific use.

Most people who prefer blankets will traditionally make their beds with two sheets; one to cover the mattress like a fitted sheet and a flat sheet to serve as a shield between you and the blanket. Blankets of old were made with thicker fibers that tended to be scratchy on the skin, and a soft cotton sheet was initially used to prevent skin irritation. 

Sleep studies found that dead skin cells, skin yeast, and bacteria flake into our beds while we sleep. The study also revealed night sweat issues, oil secretion from our skin which rubs off on our bedding, and saliva drooling onto our bedding. All this compounded with a heat-generating mini-environment in our beds promotes bacteria growth, leading to allergies, skin disorders, and bad body odor.

Cotton sheets help to reduce the transfer of dead skin cells into our blankets, and being hypoallergenic also helps to prevent the growth of allergens in our beds. This sounds good, but many people have discarded their top or flat sheets and slept directly under a duvet. A poll conducted on a home design website shows that close to 40% of people no longer use top sheets. Some people may sleep directly under modern plush blankets that are super soft and very comfortable but using two sheets with blankets is still pretty much the norm. 

The move away from using a top sheet with a duvet simply makes it easier to make the bed and reduces the laundry. This reasoning has not been thought through enough because it means that the duvet cover serves as a top sheet, and not all duvet covers have the same hypoallergenic qualities as sheets do. If the fitted sheet and duvet cover are not changed and washed weekly, the risk of odors, increased dust mite population, and bacteria growth will begin affecting your sleep pattern. 

Blankets made from natural fibers, including wool and cotton, have desirable properties like moisture-wicking, temperature regulating, naturally fire-resistant, odor-resistant, and hypoallergenic. Natural fiber blankets supersede synthetic fiber blankets as far as promoting quality sleep and sustaining a hygienic sleep environment is concerned.

Duvet inners are also made from natural materials like goose down and have properties like being breathable, but a thick winter down duvet tends to trap heat. The mix of material and fabric used with duvets and their different covers means that you can tailor your bedding to suit the type of sleeper you are. Still, you might be compromising on essential characteristics needed to maintain a sound sleep environment. You may have to purchase two duvets for winter and a lighter one for summer, but the comfort and ease of use are worth the investment. You do not have to use a duvet in summer if you stay in a warm region; simply use your duvet cover as a thin blanket to help regulate your body temperature while you sleep.

Deciding on blankets or duvets is a personal choice, and duvets do not necessarily mean poorer sleep hygiene. Still, we know that washing bedding, substantial bulking items like blankets and duvet inners, is not something we do nearly as often as recommended. Wool blankets, duvet inners, and comforters can be aired on the washing line in the sun during the day to disinfect them. Sunlight and wind will get rid of dust mites. In fact, it is common practice among people in the U.K. who use duvets and comforters to air their bedding for a few hours each day before making their bed. 

Sleep hygiene is essential, but procrastination often improves the cleaning routine we set ourselves. Reintroduce a top sheet if you’ve given up the habit and change your bedding once a week or fortnight at the most. Air your duvet inner and blankets at least once a week as well, and wash them at least once a month. This may seem excessive, but it all goes to improving your sleep environment. There is nothing better than soft, comfortable, and fresh-smelling bedding.

This article on blankets vs duvets has no natural conclusion as the choice between the two is based on personal preferences and will differ from person to person. Choosing either one will provide for a comfortable sleep environment that can be tailored to specific needs.

The main sticking point pivots on the frequency of bedding care, and we are all undoubtedly guilty of pushing the envelope on keeping our bed hygienically clean. Taking care of our sleep environment ensures more peaceful sleep. Adopting a good habit of regularly changing our bedding and correctly washing soiled bedding will give us a sleep space that will always be inviting. Quality sleep is the cornerstone of our health and wellbeing. 

Choosing between a duvet and a blanket largely depends on personal preference and the specific use case. Here are some factors to consider:

1. Warmth: A duvet is typically thicker and more insulated than a blanket, making it a better option for colder temperatures.
2. Weight: A duvet can be heavier than a blanket, which some people may find more comforting. However, others may prefer the lighter weight of a blanket.
3. Maintenance: Duvets usually require a cover, which can be removed and washed separately. This makes it easier to keep the duvet clean and fresh. Blankets, on the other hand, can be washed directly.
4. Versatility: A blanket can be used in various settings, such as on a couch or as a throw. A duvet is primarily used on a bed.
5. Style: Duvet covers come in a wide range of styles and designs, allowing you to change up the look of your bedding without buying a new comforter. Blankets may offer fewer options in terms of style.

In conclusion, whether a duvet or a blanket is better depends on individual preferences and needs.

A duvet may be the better choice if you want something that is warmer and requires less maintenance.

However, a blanket may be the way to go if you prefer something lighter and more versatile.

In general, a duvet can be warmer than a blanket, but this can depend on a few factors, such as the materials used and the thickness of the duvet or blanket.

Duvets are typically made with down or synthetic fibers that provide excellent insulation, which can make them very warm.

The thickness or weight of the duvet can also contribute to its warmth level. A thicker, heavier duvet will typically be warmer than a thinner one.

Blankets, on the other hand, can be made with a variety of materials, such as cotton, wool, or fleece.

Depending on the material, a blanket may or may not provide as much insulation as a duvet. However, blankets can be layered to create more warmth, which can make them a good option for colder weather.

Ultimately, whether a duvet or a blanket is warmer will depend on the specific products being compared, as well as personal preferences for warmth and comfort.

Yes, you can use your duvet as a blanket if you prefer.

 A duvet is a thick, quilted comforter typically used as a bed covering.

While it's designed to be used with a duvet cover, which can be removed and washed, it can also be used as a warm and cozy blanket.

Using your duvet as a blanket can be a good idea if you're looking for extra warmth and comfort during colder months.

However, remember that a duvet can be pretty heavy and bulky, so it may not be the most practical choice for use outside the bedroom.

Additionally, if your duvet isn't machine washable, using it as a blanket may get dirty more quickly than it would otherwise.

Overall, whether or not to use your duvet as a blanket comes down to personal preference and the specific features of your duvet.

If you enjoy the weight and warmth of your duvet and it's easy to care for, then using it as a blanket can be a great option.

A duvet is a type of bedding typically consisting of a soft, flat bag filled with down, feathers, wool, or a synthetic alternative.

Duvets provide warmth and comfort while sleeping and are often used as an alternative to traditional blankets or quilts.

The primary advantage of a duvet is its insulation properties.

The down, feathers or other filling material inside the duvet traps warm air and helps to regulate your body temperature, keeping you warm and comfortable throughout the night.

 Additionally, duvets are often designed to be lightweight and breathable, which can help to prevent overheating and ensure a good night's sleep.

Another benefit of using a duvet is that it can be easily removed and washed, making it a hygienic and convenient bedding option.

Some duvet covers are also available in different designs and colors, allowing you to change the look and feel of your bedding without purchasing a completely new duvet.

Overall, the point of a duvet is to provide a comfortable, warm, and convenient bedding option that can help to regulate your body temperature and improve your sleep quality.

Hotels use duvets for several reasons, including:

1.    Comfort: Duvets are designed to be soft and comfortable, providing guests with a comfortable and luxurious sleeping experience. This can help hotels to create a more favorable impression on their guests, leading to better reviews and increased customer loyalty.

2.    Durability: Duvets are generally more durable than traditional blankets or comforters and are designed to withstand frequent washing and use. This can make them a cost-effective hotel option, as they can last longer and require less frequent replacement.

3.    Hygiene: Duvets are often used with removable and washable covers, which can help to prevent the spread of germs and bacteria. This can be particularly important for hotels, which need to maintain high cleanliness levels to protect their guests' health and safety.

4.    Consistency: By using duvets, hotels can provide a consistent bedding experience for their guests, regardless of the room they are staying in. This can help create a sense of familiarity and comfort, contributing to a positive guest experience.

Overall, using duvets can help hotels improve their guests' comfort, hygiene, and satisfaction levels while also providing a cost-effective and durable bedding option.

In general, a duvet can be warmer than a blanket, but this can depend on a few factors, such as the materials used and the thickness of the duvet or blanket.

Duvets are typically made with down or synthetic fibers that provide excellent insulation, which can make them very warm.

The thickness or weight of the duvet can also contribute to its warmth level. A thicker, heavier duvet will typically be warmer than a thinner one.

Blankets, on the other hand, can be made with a variety of materials, such as cotton, wool, or fleece.

Depending on the material, a blanket may or may not provide as much insulation as a duvet. However, blankets can be layered to create more warmth, which can make them a good option for colder weather.

Ultimately, whether a duvet or a blanket is warmer will depend on the specific products being compared, as well as personal preferences for warmth and comfort.

Yes, you can wash a duvet, but it's essential to check the care label and follow the instructions carefully to avoid damaging the filling or fabric.

Most duvets can be washed in a washing machine, but some may require professional cleaning.

 If the care label indicates machine washable, use a large-capacity machine to ensure the duvet has enough room to move freely.

To wash a duvet, use a gentle detergent and a cool or warm water setting, depending on the care label instructions.

Avoid using bleach or fabric softener, which can damage the filling and reduce the duvet's insulating ability.

 Adding a few clean tennis balls or dryer balls to the dryer is also a good idea to help fluff up the filling and distribute it evenly.

Alternatively, if the care label indicates that the duvet should be dry cleaned, take it to a professional cleaner who has experience with duvets.

They will use specialized equipment and cleaning solutions to safely remove dirt and stains without damaging the filling or fabric.

In summary, washing a duvet is possible, but it's important to check the care label and follow the instructions carefully to ensure the duvet is cleaned safely and effectively.

To properly use a duvet, follow these steps:

1. Choose the right size: Make sure the duvet is the right size for your bed. It should be wide enough to cover the sides of the bed and long enough to tuck under the mattress.
2. Insert the duvet cover: Place the cover inside out on top of the duvet, with the opening at the foot of the bed. Reach inside and grab the corners of the duvet and pull them through the openings of the cover.
3. Shake and fluff: Hold the corners of the duvet and give it a good shake to help distribute the filling evenly. Then, fluff up the filling by pulling it away from the edges of the cover.
4. Tuck in the corners: Hold the corners of the duvet and tuck them under the mattress at the foot of the bed. This will help keep the duvet in place and prevent it from slipping inside the cover.
5. Make the bed: Smooth out the duvet and adjust it, so it's evenly distributed across the bed. Then, make the bed as you usually would, using pillows and sheets to complete the look.
6. Maintain the duvet: To keep it in good condition, fluff it up every few days by shaking it and pulling the filling away from the edges. You can also wash the duvet and cover it periodically, following the care label instructions.

Following these steps, you can use your duvet to keep you warm and cozy throughout the night.