How Does a Duvet Cover Work?

Definition

A duvet is similar to a comforter that is filled with natural material such as down or feathers. It comes from the French word, duvet, which means "down." It is a warm cover to use in place of a quilt or bedspread. Most people use duvets in the winter because it allows them to turn down the heat and still be warm enough for comfortable sleeping. Because duvets are made of natural materials, they cannot be washed. A duvet cover protects the duvet and can also add a stylish decor element to a bedroom. Duvet covers come in a variety of materials from light cottons to heavier micro suede. Changing a duvet cover can change the look of a room from, say, country to elegant.

Purchasing a Duvet Cover

Duvet covers are purchased like any bedding. If you have a full-sized duvet, you need a full-sized duvet cover. A queen-sized duvet cover does not work well on a full-sized duvet because the duvet will shift around inside the cover, bunching up and creating an unappealing look and feel. Duvet covers come in Egyptian cottons, silks, microfibers, micro suede and even in flannel. Basically, a duvet cover comes in any material that you'd find a comforter. They can be purchased separately or part of a set that includes pillow shams and a bed skirt. Some linen stores have duvet covers as part of a "bed in a bag" set. The "bed in a bag" typically includes coordinating sheets, pillow shams and bed skirt. Prices vary according to materials. You can find a duvet cover for as low as $25 and is much as $200. If you're concerned about price, check big box bedding stores, online outlets and discount stores.

Put on a Duvet Cover

Duvet covers can be challenging to put on over a duvet, especially if you have a king-sized duvet because it can be so unwieldy. Most duvet covers have buttons, snaps or Velcro on the top end. The top end of the duvet cover is open to "slip in" the duvet. Once the duvet is enclosed, the top of the cover is buttoned, snapped or pressed shut. The trick to putting on a duvet cover is to first put the duvet on the bed. Then turn the duvet cover inside out. Place the cover on the bed with the bottom of the cover at the same end as the bottom of the duvet. Place your arms through the open slot and move to the bottom of the duvet cover. Grab the duvet through the duvet cover and slowly raise the duvet off the bed. Guide the duvet cover around the duvet. Once you have gotten the duvet inside, close up the cover and shake it to distribute the duvet evenly. You are now ready for a good night's sleep.

Resources

• Discount duvet covers