Duvet Covers

Duvet covers made from cotton are breathable to keep you cool while you sleep and prevent odor retention. Created from a natural, renewable plant, cotton duvet covers come in a variety of thread counts that promote softness. A measurement of the number of threads contained in each square inch of fabric, typical thread counts range between about 200 and 800. Generally, cotton duvet covers with thread counts between about 300 and 500 provide sufficient suppleness, especially since cotton softens with each washing. Made from extra-long cotton fibers that are woven in thin, fine threads, Egyptian cotton duvet covers are some of the softest and most durable on the market. Another variation, cotton sateen duvet covers offer the sheen and silky texture of satin in an easy-care fabric.

Polyester is a synthetic fabric that is relatively inexpensive and available in myriad colors and patterns. Polyester duvet covers are easy to wash and fast-drying, and many polyester fabrics resist wrinkling, so they don't require ironing. Fade-resistant and extremely durable, polyester duvet covers often last for years and retain their original shape.

Woven from threads derived from the fibers of flax plants, linen duvet covers are heavier and stronger than cotton versions. Naturally moisture-wicking, linen duvet covers help you stay cool and dry as you slumber. When you first bring it home, linen has a crisp texture that gradually softens over time. Linen fabrics are very strong and durable, and the hollow fibers allow air to flow freely. Since linen fibers are considerably thicker than cotton fibers, linen duvet covers usually have a lower thread count. Typically more expensive than cotton or polyester, linen duvet covers are often found in luxury hotel rooms.

Duvet covers are usually made from lightweight sheeting fabrics that you can toss right into the laundry along with your other bed linens. Be sure to check the fabric label before washing. If your duvet cover comes with snaps, buttons, or hooks, take the time to fasten them prior to laundering. This helps keep the closures from tangling with other items in the washing machine, and it also helps the duvet cover retain its shape. Wash the duvet cover on a cool temperature setting and add a fabric softener during the rinse cycle to give a supple texture to the duvet material. Although most duvet covers can be run safely through the dryer, nothing beats the crisp freshness of bedding that has been line dried in the sunshine and open air. Once your duvet cover is completely dry, iron out any wrinkles before folding it up for storage or placing it back on your bed.

Once you remove the duvet from inside the duvet cover, it's simple to fold the cover into a square shape for storage. Duvet covers take up very little space in your linen closet, and they are easy to stack. If you have matching pillowcases that go with your duvet cover, you can insert the folded cover inside one of the pillowcases and fold it up, so you never have to hunt through your bed linens to find coordinating pieces.

Duvet covers provide outstanding versatility, because you can switch out the duvet as the seasons change. For the summer months, you can insert a duvet containing a lightweight filler, then change to a heavier duvet when nights turn cool. Since duvet covers are typically much less expensive than comforters or quilts, you can stock up on a variety of colors and patterns to liven up your decor year-round.