Does a duvet need a cover? Experts advise on the coverless duvet trend

As H&G's resident Sleep Editor, it's my job to keep abreast of all the new terms and products in the bedding space. I recently came across the concept of a 'coverless duvet': a single, unified piece, filled with down or down alternative, then wrapped in a fabric shell.

Devotees of the coverless duvet explain that it makes an effortless upgrade to your bedspread: you can throw it straight in the washing machine, as you don't need to find storage space for duvet covers.

I've been lucky enough to sample some of the world's best duvet inserts. In my professional opinion, a coverless duvet is just another word for a comforter. Still, the rise of the coverless duvet trend indicates a resurgence in the age-old debate between duvet vs comforter.

Does a duvet need a cover? Experts advise

I asked a panel of product testers and bedding designers to explain whether a duvet needs a cover: that is, whether a comforter can perform as well as a duvet insert plus duvet cover for comfort, cooling, and ease of care. To save you time and money, I've rounded up a few of my favorite duvets and comforters (or coverless duvets), many of which are listed for less in the bedding sales.

What is a coverless duvet?

Before we begin, it always helps to define our terms. A coverless duvet is just another word for a comforter. The difference between a comforter and a duvet is that a duvet comprises two components: a duvet insert and a duvet cover. A comforter is a single piece, filled with down or down alternative and stitched inside a cover.

Our Head of Solved, Punteha van Terheyden, bought her first coverless duvet a few years ago. 'I was doing endless washing when we were training my child to be dry at night and after three months of accidents, we'd had enough. I bought a set of coverless duvets from Amazon and they have been fabulous. They wash and dry brilliantly and don't end up smelling of mildew. They are also spectacularly warm while remaining breathable, which is key to solid sleep for my daughter. I highly recommend them for anyone with kids, grandkids, or any other need for regular duvet washing. A single size fits just fine in my 8KG washer.'

Should I buy a coverless duvet?

Before you buy a coverless duvet, I'd encourage you to consider the pros and cons of duvets vs comforters (or coverless duvets). I asked bedding designer, Founder and CEO of Pure Parima, Parima Ijaz, to give us an overview.

'Coverless duvets offer the simplicity of an all-in-one design, combining the fill and cover into a single piece,' Parima explains. 'This can make them easy to use, with less concern about shifting or bunching. However, it's important to note that some smaller washers and dryers may not accommodate large comforters, so checking the care label is essential. Additionally, comforters are typically filled with polyester, which may limit options for those seeking natural fills.'

'Traditional duvets, on the other hand, provide notable versatility in materials, fabrics, and weights,' says Parima. 'With the ability to switch out covers, they allow for an easy refresh of your bedroom's style without the need to invest in an entirely new bedding set. Separating the cover from the insert also simplifies cleaning, as you can wash the cover more frequently to maintain freshness. Using a top sheet with a duvet cover can further extend the time between washes, as the top sheet can be laundered more frequently.

There are practical benefits to using a duvet cover, too. 'Separating the cover from the insert also simplifies cleaning, as you can wash the cover more frequently to maintain freshness,' says Parima. 'For those concerned about bulk, lightweight duvet inserts offer a thinner alternative while still providing the flexibility of interchangeable covers. Both options cater to different needs, whether you prioritize the simplicity of a comforter or the customizable style and maintenance benefits of a duvet. Features like loops and ties in duvets can also help keep the insert securely in place, making them just as practical for everyday use as comforters.'

Whether or not a duvet insert needs a cover all depends on how easily that insert can be washed. If your duvet insert is machine-washable, then you don't need to sleep with a duvet cover. You should wash your insert at least once every two months – sooner, if you notice any stains or smells. If your duvet insert is not machine-washable, then you need a duvet cover to keep your bed and body clean from sweat, spills, and stains. Make sure to inspect the care tag for laundry symbols that show how best to clean your bedding.