Blankets, bedspreads, comforters, quilts... bedding options are seemingly endless! Duvets and duvet covers are among those options. They're unique in that they are separate yet go together, providing plenty of bedding versatility. So what, exactly, is a duvet? And what is a duvet cover?

A duvet is a quilted blanket that serves as the top layer of your bedding. The literal translation of the German word "duvet" is "down", and duvets are usually filled with down (e.g., goose or duck feathers) or a down-alternative (e.g., polyester, cotton, or wool). Check out our Duvet Buying Guide for more information!

So what is a duvet cover? It's a fabric case that does for a duvet what a pillowcase does for a pillow – its purpose is to cover and protect the duvet. It may close with a zipper, ties, snaps, or buttons.

But why should you opt for the two-part duvet/duvet cover when you could buy a single comforter? There are a few really good reasons:

1. Duvet Covers Come in All Sizes & Fabrics

Duvets are designed to provide year-round comfort. Changing up the duvet cover each season can help you achieve the warmth or coolness you desire. That's why duvet covers are available in such a wide array of materials. Premium duvet covers are made of Egyptian cotton, silk, or satin. Cool and breathable duvet covers include linen, percale, and cotton fabrics. Cozy duvet cover materials include chenille, velvet, microfiber, flannel, and sateen.

2. Duvet Covers Are Versatile

Duvets are all-season bed coverings – keeping you cool in the summer and warm in the winter – so you can use the same one all year long. Duvet covers allow you to change up your duvet's look easily and affordably throughout the year, since they come in an enormous variety of colors and patterns.

You can transform your entire space with this one simple change. Decide what kind of look you want, and there's probably a duvet cover that will fit the bill. Do you want a solid color or a pattern? A duvet that's textured, Christmas-themed, or suitable for kids? Duvet covers let you experiment with a variety of looks without breaking the bank.

3. Duvet Covers Are Easy to Care For

Bedspreads, quilts, and comforters can be difficult to clean. Many are too large for standard washing machines; others may require special care like dry-cleaning or spot-cleaning. Caring for a duvet cover is much simpler: simply remove the cover and launder it with your sheets and pillowcases. No more overstuffed washing machines or damaged comforters!

4. Duvet Covers Can Replace the Increasingly Unpopular Flat Sheet

Sheet sets typically include a fitted sheet, a flat sheet, and one or two pillowcases. The main purpose of the flat sheet – also known as the top sheet – is to place a layer between the sleeper and the main cover (the comforter or quilt, for example). This helps to protect the comforter or quilt from body oils, makeup, and other stains.

Surveys of American consumers found that about 40% ditch the flat sheet that comes with a sheet set. Because of this, the comforter or quilt will likely need to be laundered more often to prevent bacteria and dirt from building up.

A duvet cover provides an excellent alternative. Because it encases the duvet, it protects it from direct contact with the sleeper and eliminates the need for a flat sheet entirely! As mentioned above, you can wash it every time you launder your sheets and pillowcases.

If you want to learn even more about duvets vs. comforters, check out our guide.

Ready to amp up your bedding style? Shop duvets and duvet covers now!

Article by Mary Fetzer.