Bedspreads, Comforters, Duvets, And Quilts--what's Up?

When you are going to buy some bedding, it is helpful to know the difference between comforters, quilts, bedspreads and duvet covers. Duvets seem to be

primarily from England and Europe, and basically it is a comforter that is filled with batting or down, that you do not need to wash, because it is covered

with a duvet cover. These can be laundered, like a slip cover. You could have one actual comforter like duvet, but a few different covers to use with it.

These are only just beginning to catch on in the US these days. Primarily, in the USA, we deal with comforters, bedspreads and quilts. Comforters are

thick, substantial, blankets that have a filling material and are quilted or sewn to keep the filling in place so it doesn't move around and remains evenly

spaced and more effective. They are often sewn in square or circular patterns and are machine sewn. Comforters often have a theme, such as a rustic design,

or a theme and design for a child, such as mutant ninja turtles. They are very decorative along with being warm and functional. They could be filled with

down (Goose feathers), or with cotton or synthetic filling, such as polyester, that is easy to care for and dries quickly. Comforters can also be more formal

and simple, just as a soft luxurious deeply colored mattress topper.They often are found in vivid colors, such as red, black and white or chocolate brown.

The idea is that they are warm, soft, stylish and comfy at the same time. Quilts are much like comforters, but usually made by hand, or quilted by

machine by an individual person, such as a quilt made as a wedding gift, or to celebrate a birth or special event. They usually have some batting or filling,

but not the overstuffed look of a comforter. A quilt may be made in a complicated interlocking circle or square pattern, that has a long heritage and has

been passed on in families for generations. They can also be used as wall hangings, commemorate a special occurence or theme, and may never actually be used

on a bed. Many quilts are sold that are mass produced and are just used to cover a bed, or as another blanket. The terms quilt and comforter are often used

interchangeably, but are not really the same thing. Bedspreads are used most often just to cover the bed to make it look nice and fit into the decor, but are

not intended to be the only cover for warmth. Bedspreads are usually one layer or thinly quilted, and may be chenille, twill with a pattern, or a woven

material with a none specific design. These are often used at hotels like the Holiday Inn, or Inn Suites. These are also mass produced and do not have a

specific theme. In any case, they are sold by department and specialty stores and can be mail ordered or bought in larger quantities. Bedspreads come in a

large selection of classic and neutral colors. Where ever you finally find your duvet, comforter, quilt or bedspread,shop around so that you will be happy

with the price you pay and not regret your decision.