Duvets are one of the most important pieces of bedding you can own, and with countless models on the market, it can be tricky to find one that works the best for you. Whether you are seeking a duvet made from real down or looking for an alternative fill, there are many different weights for each. Some duvets have cooling measures, while others are meant to keep you extra warm. Our team of duvet researchers and testers spent hundreds of hours researching and testing all of the best duvets you can buy in Canada to help you find one that is exactly what you are looking for.
All the duvets on our list today were reviewed and tested on cooling properties, weight, fill options and ease of care. Our professional team had each tester on our team try multiple duvets over an extended period in order to get an accurate judgment of how they performed. Only our favourite duvets that we tested made it into our review today. Here are our picks for the best duvets in Canada for 2025.
The 8 Best Duvets Picks for Canadians in 2025
- Best Overall: Silk & Snow Down Alternative Duvet
- Best Cooling Duvet: Hush Microgravity Duvet
- Best for Cold Winters: Silk & Snow Down Duvet
- Best Custom Fill Duvet: Douglas Down Duvet
- Best for Year Round: Endy Duvet
- Best Feather Duvet: Canadian Down & Feather Co. Goose Feather Duvet
- Best Goose Down Duvet: QE Home Prestige Goose Down Duvet
- Best for Night Sweats: Benji Cooling Duvet Comforter
Why Do We Recommend These Duvets for Canadians?
Countless hours of research and evaluation informed our choices for the best duvets in Canada. We looked for the best options available on the Canadian market and tested various performance features. We looked at materials, fill options, weight, cooling options, and care instructions to determine the best options. here’s why each of the best duvets in Canada of 2025 made our list.
For Canadians who live in cold climates or for chilly winter months, the Silk & Snow Down Alternative Duvet includes an option for those needing extra warmth. With three different fill weight options, including one just for winter, this duvet is cozy and plush and a great pick no matter what fill weight you are looking for. This feature helps make this our favourite duvet for Canadians in 2024.
Canadians who sleep hot will want to consider the Hush Microgravity Duvet, which is our pick for the best cooling duvet. This duvet has a unique double-sided feature, with one side for those who sleep extra hot or for warm summer months.
The Silk & Snow Down Duvet is a great option for most Canadians. This duvet has options for both warm and cool sleepers and is available in all sizes. The down is ethically sourced, which is great for those concerned about animal welfare. It’s our choice for the best duvet for cold Canadian winters.
The Douglas Down Duvet is an excellent choice for Canadians who are looking to have some options for their fill weight in their duvet. This duvet is filled with ethically sourced duck down, and users have the option to purchase either a lightweight or an all-season fill weight.
Those not wanting to buy a separate duvet for each season will love the Endy Duvet, which is an excellent duvet you can use comfortably year-round. This duvet is filled with a temperature-neutral alternative down, keeping sleepers comfortable no matter the season.
The Canadian Down & Feather Co. Goose Feather Duvet is an excellent duvet choice for those seeking a heavy and fluffy duvet. Filled entirely with goose feathers, this warm duvet is perfect for those who sleep cool or live in colder climates.
Our readers looking for a great goose-down duvet that is fluffy and lightweight will want to consider the QE Home Prestige Goose Down Duvet. This duvet is ultra-soft and great for all Canadian seasons.
If you are struggling with night sweats, the Benji Cooling Duvet Comforter is your best option to wake up cool, dry, and refreshed. The cooling gel fibre in this duvet both regulates temperature and pulls sweat away from the body.
Best Overall
Silk and Snow Down Alternative Duvet
- Fill Type: Down-like Microfill
- Available Sizes: Twin/Twin XL, Full/Queen, King/Cal King
- Shell: 100% Cotton
- Weight: Lightweight, All-Season, Winter
- Read Our Full Review of the Silk & Snow Down Alternative Duvet
It's Great For:
- Those who live in cold climates
- Users with down or feather allergies
- Canadians who want to choose their fill weight
- Easy cleaning
The Silk & Snow Down Alternative Duvet is our favourite duvet in Canada. This option features some of the heaviest fill options on our list, making it ideal for colder winters. This versatile duvet is available in multiple fill weights, including one just for winter. For those who seek extra warmth or live in cold climates, this duvet is the perfect option for you.
The shell of the Silk & Snow Down Alternative Duvet is made of 100% cotton and is both breathable and airy. No matter what fill weight you choose, this duvet won’t trap odours, bacteria or body heat in the shell of the duvet.
The weight options for the fill set this apart from other duvets in our review today. With three different weight options to choose from, there is sure to be a Silk & Snow Down Alternative Duvet that will be perfect for you. For those who sleep hot or live in warmer climates, the lightweight option is the best fill. For those who live in moderate temperatures, the all-season fill weight is a great choice. Unique to Silk & Snow, the winter fill weight is a great choice for those who seek a warm and cozy duvet and is an excellent duvet for cold winters.
The fill of this duvet is made from a down-like microfill and is fluffy and plush. Available in Twin/Twin XL, Full/Queen and King/California King sizes, this duvet will work for all mattresses. The Silk & Snow Down Alternative Duvet can be machine washed and dried, which is great for those who like to regularly clean their bedding.
Key Features
- Winter Fill Option. Unique to Silk & Snow is a winter option for the fill weight, making sure that even those who live in the coldest climates will have a duvet that caters to them.
- Down-Like Fill. Made of hypoallergenic microfibre fill, this duvet is soft and fluffy, keeping you comfortable and cozy all night long. Even so, you can choose the fill option that feels best for you.
- Custom Fill Weight. The Silk & Snow Down Alternative Duvet is available in three different weight options: lightweight, all-season and winter, ensuring a perfect fill for every Canadian.
- Easy Washing. This duvet can be machine washed and tumble dried at home. You can wash it with your regular bedding if you have a large enough washing machine.
Our Expert’s Take
“This duvet was a perfect option for our testers who wanted the warmest duvet possible for cold winters. Our testers slept warm and comfortable even in the coldest months.”
Best Cooling Duvet
Hush Microgravity Duvet
- Fill Type: Hypoallergenic Alternative Down
- Available Sizes: Twin, Full/Queen, King
- Shell: 100% Cotton
- Weight: All-Season
- Read Our Full Review of the Hush Microgravity Duvet
It's Great For:
- Those who sleep hot
- Year-round use
- Canadians who don't want to use animal products
- Easy washing
For those who sleep hot, the Hush Microgravity Duvet is a great pick with its extra cooling properties. This duvet is double-sided, a feature not often found in duvets on the Canadian market. Although the entire duvet shell is 100% cotton, one side is also treated with the Hush Iced technology, which is cool to the touch and actively works to lower temperatures throughout the night. During the summer, and for those who sleep naturally hot will want that side of the duvet closest to them. During cooler seasons, Canadians seeking extra warmth can flip the duvet, keeping the plain cotton side next to their body.
Available in all three standard sizes, you can be sure that one of these duvets will fit your existing mattress. Those wanting a complete sleep set can purchase the Hush Duvet covers separately, which snap onto the corners of the Hush Duvet and eliminate any bunching that can sometimes occur with duvets and their covers.
The fill of the Hush Microgravity Duvet is made from an animal-free alternative down fibre. This fill is hypoallergenic and sleeps cool, drawing heat away from the body overnight. The duvet is great for those seeking the feel of real down but without some of the attributes of down, like potential heat build-up and animal welfare concerns.
To wash the Hush Microgravity Duvet, simply unsnap the cover (if attached) from the corners of the duvet. The duvet can be machine washed on cold and tumble dried on low. To keep the loft light and fluffy, palace a tennis ball in the dryer alongside the duvet.
Key Features
- Hush Iced Technology. One side of the Hush Microgravity Duvet is treated with Hush Iced Technology, wicking heat and moisture away from sleepers all night.
- Cotton Shell. The 100% cotton outer shell is breathable and helps maximize airflow, which lowers the temperature under the covers. If you sleep extra warm, this duvet can help reduce higher temperatures.
- Alternative Down Fill. The fill of this duvet is made from an alternative down fibre that is light, fluffy, and entirely animal product free.
- Easy Cleaning. This duvet can be machine washed and dried, a unique feature for many duvets. The ability to regularly clean this duvet is great for those with allergies or accidental spills.
Our Expert’s Take
“The cooling side of this duvet was a big hit with our testers who sleep warm. Our testers found this duvet to be soft and fluffy and woke up sweat-free and comfortable.”
Best for Cold Winters
Silk and Snow Down Duvet
- Fill Type: Canadian Hutterite Duck Down
- Available Sizes: Twin/Twin XL, Full/Queen, King/Cal King
- Shell: 100% Cotton
- Weight: Lightweight, All-Season
- Read Our Full Review of the Silk & Snow Down Duvet
It's Great For:
- All seasons
- Canadians seeking a real down duvet
- Those who sleep hot
- Users without allergies
The Silk & Snow Down Duvet is our favourite duvet for cold Canadian winters. This wonderful duvet is made of high-quality fabrics and filled with ethically traced Canadian duck down. The Silk & Snow Duck Down Duvet comes in two different weight options, ensuring every Canadian will find a fill option that will work for them.
The shell of the Silk & Snow Duck Duvet is made from 100% cotton and is breathable and airy. Instead of trapping heat, air can flow through the duvet and won’t leave you overheating. The cover can be spot cleaned or taken to a professional dry cleaner for cleaning in case of spills or stains. To minimize having to dry clean the duvet, make sure to use a duvet cover that can be easily cleaned. Silk & Snow offers their own duvet covers for a perfect fit, which is available in multiple fabrics and colours. The cover is sewn in large baffle box construction, ensuring that the down fill does not shift or bunch and stays even throughout the entire duvet.
This duvet comes in sizes Twin/Twin XL, Full/Queen and King/California King. Regardless of what size bed you have, the Silk & Snow Down Duvet has a size that will fit your mattress. The duvet is certified ethically sourced, as well as free from harmful chemicals or synthetics in production. This is a great all-around duvet that you won’t feel guilty about buying or using.
Key Features
- Cotton Shell. The 100% cotton shell of the duvet is airy and naturally cool, allowing trapped heat to escape without major heat build-up overnight.
- Real Down Fill. The Silk & Snow Down Duvet is filled with ethically traced Hutterite duck down from Alberta and British Columbia. This down makes all the difference when it comes to feel.
- Ethically Sourced. The fill of the duvet comes from farms that are ethically run, so those concerned about animal welfare can rest easy.
- Multiple Weights. Available in a lightweight option for those who sleep hot or in summer months, as well as an all-season weight for year-round use and those who sleep cool.
Our Expert’s Take
“This plush and soft down duvet was perfect for those who slept warm, as well as those seeking extra warmth. Our testers found this duvet to be cozy and loved that the down was ethically sourced.”
Best Custom Fill Duvet
Douglas Down Duvet
- Fill Type: Hutterite Canadian Duck Down
- Available Sizes: Twin/Twin XL, Full/Queen, King/Cal King
- Shell: 100% Cotton
- Weight: Lightweight, All-Season
It's Great For:
- Canadians who want to choose their fill weight
- Those who sleep warm
- Year-round use
- Those who don't have down or feather allergies
Canadians who are interested in choosing the fill weight of their duvet will love the Douglas Down Duvet, our pick for the best custom-fill duvet in Canada. This duvet offers the ability to choose between lightweight or all-season, ensuring that whether you sleep hot or seek extra warmth, there is an option here that will work best for you.
The shell of the Douglas Down Duvet is made from 100% cotton and is airy and cool. Those who sleep warm will appreciate the extra airflow that cotton offers and how it wicks heat away from the body naturally. The duvet is constructed with large baffle-box quilting, which prevents the down from shifting and bunching during use.
The fill of the Douglas Down Duvet is comprised of ethically sourced Canadians Hutterite duck down. This fill is soft and fluffy and provides an ultra-plush sleep experience. For those who sleep hot or live in warmer climates, the lightweight fill option is the best choice. For Canadians who sleep cool or for use in the winter, the all-season weight option is the way to go. Most duvets do not offer weight options, which makes the Douglas Down Duvet stand out.
The Douglas Down Duvet is offered in all three standard mattress sizes. This duvet can not be washed, and can only be professionally cleaned, which may be a consideration for some; however, it is treated with antimicrobial technology, which protects and stains, dust and mould. Because this duvet cannot be put in a washing machine, it is essential to use a duvet cover that can be easily cleaned.
Key Features
- Cotton Outer Shell. This 100% cotton shell helps reduce body heat and maximizes airflow. If you usually sleep hot, this duvet can help keep you cool.
- Hutterite Duck Down. The duvet is filled with Canadian Hutterite Duck Down, a luxurious fill that is soft, fluffy, and extremely cozy. Plus, all down is ethically sourced.
- Custom Fill Weight. The Douglas Down Duvet allows you to choose a lightweight or an all-season fill weight based on the user’s preferred weight and temperature.
- Ethically Sourced Materials. For those concerned about animal welfare, have peace of mind with this duvet, as the Hutterite duck down is all sourced from ethical Canadian farms.
Our Expert’s Take
“Our testers liked the ability to choose their fill weight. Most appreciated that the duck down used to fill the duvet came from an ethical source right here in Canada, allowing them to rest easier.”
Best for Year Round
The Endy Duvet
- Fill Type: 100% Polyester Alternative Down
- Available Sizes: Twin/Twin XL, Full, Queen, King/Cal King
- Shell: 100% Cotton
- Weight: All-Season
It's Great For:
- Year-round use
- Easy washing
- Those allergic to animal products
- Canadians who sleep warm
Many users prefer not to get a separate duvet for both warm and cool seasons, and would rather have one duvet they can use all year round. The Endy Duvet is our pick for the best duvet for year-round use in Canada, and it is perfect for most Canadians looking for a simple duvet that will work for most sleepers.
The shell of the Endy Duvet is made from 100% cotton and is durable and soft. This outer shell helps with lowering body heat for those who sleep warm, as the naturally breathable cotton works hard to provide airflow and wick away heat. The duvet is constructed with large baffle-box quilting, which helps keep the fill in the pockets throughout the duvet and eliminates bunching and shifting.
Inside the Endy Duvet is a fill made of 100% polyester alternative down. This fill is soft, light and fluffy and keeps temperatures neutral throughout the year, no matter what the season is. This premium hypoallergenic fill is great for those with allergies, and those concerned about using animal products will be happy that this duvet is completely vegan.
Available in all standard bed sizes, you are sure to be able to find a size that will work best with your current bed. The Endy Duvet can be machine washed and dried, which is a harder-to-find feature in duvets. The duvet can be machine washed on cold and then tumble dried on low. For best results and to keep the fill extra fluffy, place a tennis ball in the dryer with the Endy Duvet.
Key Features
- Alternative Down Fill. This 100% polyester fill is soft and fluffy and made from an alternative down, which is great for those with allergies to animal products.
- Cotton Shell. Made of 100% cotton, this cool and breathable cover helps keep moderate temperatures down throughout the night without major overheating.
- Easy Washing. Unlike most duvets on the Canadian market, the Endy Duvet can be machine washed at home. As long as your washing machine can handle it, you can keep your bedding fresh.
- Year-Round Use. This duvet is perfect for year-round use, as it isn’t too heavy, not too light. With a perfect, moderate fill, sleepers will be comfortable no matter what season it is.
Our Expert’s Take
“This duvet stayed at a perfect temperature and weight throughout the year, even with changing seasons. Our testers found it to be fluffy and plush and woke up feeling well rested.”
Best Feather Duvet
Canadian Down & Feather Company All Season White Goose Feather Duvet
- Fill Type: Goose Feather
- Available Sizes: Twin, Full, Queen, King
- Shell: 100% Cotton
- Weight: All-Season/Cooler Climate
- Read Our Full Review of the Canadian Down & Feather Company Duvet
It's Great For:
- Those seeking a heavier duvet
- Year-round use
- Canadians who sleep cooler
- Users without feather allergies
While some look for down or down-like fill, others look for a more traditional feather-filled duvet. The Canadian Down & Feather Co. Goose Feather Duvet is our favourite option for the best feather duvet in Canada. This duvet is ultra fluffy and heavy, filled with goose feathers throughout the duvet, and filled into pockets with baffle box stitching to prevent bunching and shifting of the feathers with use.
The outer shell of the shell is made from 100% cotton, which is durable and crisp. Feather duvets tend to run hotter, and the cotton shell does help with a bit of cooling for those who sleep minimally warm. Those who sleep hot, however, may find this feather duvet too warm for their comfort.
The fill of this duvet is stuffed with 100% goose-down feathers and is much heavier than a down or down-like filled duvet. For those seeking extra weight and warmth, this is a great duvet option for you.
The Canadian Down & Feather Co. Goose Feather Duvet is available in all standard sizes except California King. It should be noted that this duvet can not be machine or professionally washed. Any spills can be spot cleaned, but a duvet cover should always be used to protect the duvet from stains and dirt. This duvet is the most affordable in our review today, and its affordability could allow for this to be bought as a second duvet to be used in colder months.
Key Features
- Goose Feather Fill. The fill of this duvet is made from small goose feathers and provides a traditional fluffy and soft duvet experience.
- Heavy Weight. This duvet is heavier than down-filled duvets; goose feathers weigh much more. For those seeking a weighted feeling from their duvet, this is a great pick.
- Cotton Shell. This breathable and cool shell helps reduce heat while maximizing airflow within the duvet. If you usually sleep hot, this duvet can help remove excess body heat.
- Affordable. This duvet could be a perfect option for those who want to purchase a second duvet for the winter months. Its’ low price is appealing to those on a budget.
Our Expert’s Take
“This duvet was ultra fluffy and dense, and our testers enjoyed the heavier weight and coziness that the feathers in the duvet provided. Despite the high-quality materials, the price is extremely affordable.”
Best Goose Down Duvet
QE Home Prestige Goose Down Duvet
- Fill Type: Goose Down
- Available Sizes: Twin, Double, Queen, King, Super/Cal King
- Shell: 100% Cotton Sateen
- Weight: All-Season
It's Great For:
- Those who sleep warm
- All mattress sizes
- Easy washing
- Users who want a year-round duvet
For the ultimate fluffy duvet, the QE Home Prestige Goose Down Duvet is a luxurious choice for any bedroom. This duvet is our top pick for the best goose-down duvet you can buy in Canada. Available in all sizes, you can purchase this duvet no matter what size your current mattress is.
The shell of the Prestige Goose Down Duvet is made from 100% cotton sateen, both silky and smooth and is a great base for any duvet cover you might choose. The cotton is breathable and helps airflow circulate throughout the duvet, and works at reducing body temperatures throughout the night. The baffle box construction of the duvet ensures less bunching and shifting of the down over time.
Filled with white goose down, this fill is incredibly soft and light, making for a fluffy and plush sleeping experience. This duvet is great for year-round use, and those that sleep both warm and cool will find that this duvet has comfortable temperature control.
This duvet can be machine washed and dried, keeping it fresh and clean as often as you like. To reduce cleaning, use a duvet cover at all times of use. To wash this duvet, make sure you choose a cold water cycle and gentle detergent. Tumble dry on low; for best results, use the QE Home Wool Dryer Balls while drying. The duvet can also be taken to a professional cleaner.
Key Features
- White Goose Down. Filled with white goose down, this duvet is light and fluffy and keeps you warm and cozy without added weight. You can feel cozy without the additional weighty surface.
- Cotton Shell. This duvet features a 100% cotton shell, which is open, airy, and helps reduce heat throughout the night. If you sleep hot, this cover works to keep you cool.
- Easy to Wash. This duvet can be machine washed and dried on low, perfect for those wanting to clean their bedding regularly or for accidental spills.
- All-Season Use. The Prestige Goose Down Duvet is an all-season duvet that does not overheat in the summer and provides some warmth in the winter.
Our Expert’s Take
“This duvet was fluffy and comfortable and felt like sleeping in a luxury hotel. Our testers found it to be temperature neutral and not too heavy.”
Best for Night Sweats
Benji Cooling Duvet Comforter
- Fill Type: Ultra-Cooling Gel Fibre
- Available Sizes: Twin XL, Full/Double, Queen, King
- Shell: Microfibre
- Weight: All Season (200 GSM)
It's Great For:
- Canadians who sweat through the night
- Those with allergies
- Canadians who sleep hot
- Those who prefer a lightweight duvet
Canadians who suffer from uncomfortable sweating through the night could find a cool and dry night’s sleep with the Benji Cooling Duvet Comforter. Made with a cooling gel fibre, this duvet is designed to regulate temperature. Moisture-wicking fabric pulls sweat away from the body, allowing it to evaporate rather than be absorbed like with traditional cotton. This lightweight, all-season duvet ensures both warm and cool sleepers wake up cool, dry, and refreshed.
The outer shell is made from high-performance, double-brushed microfibre. At 1500 threads per square inch, this duvet offers a plush, comfortable feel. While it’s always a good idea to use a duvet cover, this comforter feels smooth and comfortable without one as well. Canadians looking for an alternative to down will appreciate that the ultra-cooling gel fibre fill was designed to mimic the plushness of down while keeping sleepers from getting too hot.
Unlike traditional cotton alternatives, the Benji Cooling Duvet Comforter is both antimicrobial and hypoallergenic, meaning that the fabric helps prevent germs, breakouts, and excessive sneezing. It is also OEKO-TEX Standard-100 certified, ensuring it contains no harmful materials or contaminants.
The Benji Cooling Duvet Comforter is easy to care for. It is machine washable, and uses a wrinkle-free fabric. It is also extremely quiet and available in a variety of sizes, including Twin XL, Full/Double, Queen, and King. This duvet also offers a 100-night, risk-free sleep trial. Canadians looking for a high-quality duvet that will regulate temperature and ensure they wake dry and refreshed will find the Benji Cooling Duvet Comforter a fantastic option.
Key Features
- Moisture-Wicking. This duvet’s microfiber pulls sweat away from the body to evaporate rather than be absorbed, like with cotton alternatives.
- Cooling Gel Fill. The cooling gel-infused fibres provide temperature regulation so both cool and hot sleepers wake comfortable and dry.
- Corner Loops. Loops on all four corners ensure the duvet is anchored in place within a duvet cover. The duvet won’t bunch up or move around within the cover.
- Soft Outer Shell. High-performance, double-brushed microfiber combined with 1500 threads per square inch provides a soft, plush feel.
Our Expert’s Take
“This soft, luxurious duvet is comfortable to touch and helps regulate your temperature, reducing heat build-up and night sweats all night long.”
A Quick Look at the Best Duvets in Canada
| Category | Duvet | Fill Type | Available Sizes | Shell | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | Silk and Snow Down Alternative | Down-like Microfill | Twin/Twin XL, Full/Queen, King/Cal King | 100% Cotton | Lightweight, All-Season, Winter |
| Best Cooling | Hush Microgravity | Hypoallergenic Alternative Down | Twin, Full/Queen, King | 100% Cotton | All-Season |
| Best for Cold Winters | Silk & Snow Down | Canadian Hutterite Duck Down | Twin/Twin XL, Full/Queen, King/Cal King | 100% Cotton | Lightweight, All-Season |
| Best Custom Fill Duvet | Douglas Down | Hutterite Canadian Duck Down | Twin/Twin XL, Full/Queen, King/Cal King | 100% Cotton | Lightweight, All-Season |
| Best for Year Round | The Endy | 100% Polyester Alternative Down | Twin/Twin XL, Full, Queen, King/Cal King | 100% Cotton | All-Season |
| Best Feather Duvet | Canadian Down & Feather Company All Season White Goose Feather | Goose Feather | Twin, Full, Queen, King | 100% Cotton | All-Season/Cooler Climate |
| Best Goose Down Duvet | QE Home Prestige Goose Down | Goose Down | Twin, Double, Queen, King, Super/Cal King | 100% Cotton Sateen | All-Season |
| Best for Night Sweats | Benji Cooling | Ultra-Cooling Gel Fibre | Twin XL, Full/Double, Queen, King | Microfibre | All Season (200 GSM) |
How We Test Canadian Duvets
We have years of experience in the Canadian sleep industry. From mattresses to pillows, sheets, and frames, we’ve looked at every part of the sleep experience. When we started looking at duvets, we devised extensive tests in our test lab to help rank each duvet appropriately. After that, we sent each duvet home with our team of testers, who provided excellent, detailed feedback about them. Together, this information was used to recommend the best duvets in Canada.
When choosing our duvets, we looked at features like fill type, shell, weight, and construction.
Duvet or Comforter?
If you’ve never had a duvet before, you might be wondering how it differs from a comforter. While both cover your bed, they are a little different. A duvet is usually solid white. It’s filled with down or a down alternative, among a few other, rarer fill types. You have to slot the duvet into a duvet cover for better durability, much like a pillow inside a pillowcase.
A comforter, on the other hand, is a single piece that is usually filled with some type of polyester filling. Comforters are comfortable, and some are heavier than others. However, they do not require a duvet cover and often need to be replaced.
Duvets are a little more durable and variable. You can get duvets that are thicker for colder months, but you can also choose more breathable options if you sleep hot. Placing the duvet into the duvet cover allows it to last longer, and you can change the duvet cover to match your bedroom décor.
Let’s take a look at how to choose a duvet for your bedroom.
How to Choose a Duvet for Canadians in 2024
Now that you know you want a duvet, it’s time to get some basics out of the way. Here are some of the essential features you should consider while you shop for the best duvets in Canada. Keep these features in mind as you shop, because they may be able to help you determine which duvets are best for you.
Shell Materials
The shell material is one of the most important factors to consider. This material can determine how easily the duvet slides into a duvet cover, how comfortable it is, and even how secure the duvet will be inside the cover.
Most duvets use a 100% cotton cover. Some use organic cotton only, and some might use other materials. However, breathable 100% cotton is the most common. Cotton is extremely durable and helps the fill breathe, making it more comfortable overall for most sleepers.
Polyester covers are also common in less expensive duvets. Polyester isn’t as durable and won’t have a thread count, but it can help you sleep comfortably anyway.
Even if you plan on using a duvet cover, you should still pay attention to the shell of the duvet. The cover can make the duvet cooler or more comfortable, which can help enhance the features of your duvet cover.
Thread Count
The thread count of the shell will tell you how durable it is, as well as how soft it is. A lower thread count can be soft, but it’s often more durable. Higher thread counts are more expensive and extremely soft, but they won’t last very long.
That’s because thread count is the measure of the number of threads in one square inch of fabric. A higher thread count leads to a tightly-oven fabric, which can be stiff and warm (even if it is soft!). A lower thread count is more breathable in general.
Duvet Cover Loops
Most duvets have built-in loops at the corners. These loops help secure the duvet into the duvet cover. Without these loops, the duvet will move around a lot. However, these loops must be durably attached to the duvet. If not, moving around too much can cause them to break. Fixing them isn’t possible, either, because most duvets have a set construction to contain fill.
Make sure that you choose a duvet with durable, secure loops. These loops will help your duvet stay in place within the duvet cover, so you’ll have fewer issues getting comfortable throughout the night.
Fill
There are a few different types of fill available in duvets. Here are some of the most popular options in Canada. You can choose the one that sounds most comfortable for you based on temperature control, allergies, and environmental concerns.
- Down and feathers. Down is extremely soft, and insulating. It’s the fluffy ‘undercoat’ that birds grow for use in colder weather, and it’s extremely soft. Down is usually harvested ethically, but make sure that the company says this directly. You should also look for 100% down products, because without this modifier, other fill may be used. Down is not suitable for people with allergies or those living a vegan lifestyle. Feathers are often used alongside down. Feathers have the same properties with less insulation overall than standard down.
- Down alternatives. If you’re allergic to feathers or down, a down alternative might be better. This includes polyester, rayon, or microfill. These synthetic materials are made to feel just like down but without the allergies or animals involved in the process. They are less expensive overall but might end up being less breathable and a little heavier overall.
- Wool. Wool is another natural down alternative. Wool is great at regulating temperature, so it’s great for year-round use. It’s sustainable and biodegradable, as well as animal-friendly. Plus, it has great moisture-wicking properties.
Fill Power
Fill power and weight indicate how well a duvet will work for different temperatures and conditions. Fill power is referred to in several different ways, and there aren’t any standards for the industry. Here are just some of the metrics you’ll see when it comes to filling power.
- Ratings between 400 and 800. These number ratings often refer to how much space one ounce of down occupies. It’s used to rate the density of the fill. A lower number (400 and below) means that the duvet is a lightweight, summer option. As this number climbs, duvets get denser. A rating of over 600 is for winter use and helps during colder weather. It’s important to note that these ratings and ‘cubic inches per ounce’ ratings are interchangeable, and the same rules apply. Some companies refer to this rating as ‘cubic inches per ounce, while others don’t bother to specify. These numbers tend to range a lot higher than the other method used, GSM.
- GSM. GSM is used to refer to ‘grams per square metre’. GSM is an exclusive measurement for non-down fill. It refers to the weight of the quilt filling. A rating of up to 250 GSM is great for summer, whereas 450 GSM and above is best for winter weather in Canada.
All of the duvets you encounter should have one of these values, as it can determine the quality and thickness of your duvet. Make sure to look for this number or value to help you make a choice.
Weight
The weight of the duvet matters when it comes to how comfortable you’ll be as you use it. There are a few different options, and these ratings often reflect on the fill and fill power in each duvet. There are a few different weight options, and most duvets have more than one option to choose from.
- Lightweight: A lightweight duvet is more suitable for summer use. It’s also a great option for those who regularly sleep hot, as it’s more breathable and comfortable for warmer sleepers. It uses less fill and a higher loft to create more breathability.
- Medium weight: A medium-weight duvet is often referred to as an ‘all-seasons’ duvet. This duvet has a better chance of being exactly what you need. It’s cool in the summer and warmer in the winter. The medium loft and fill density make it comfortable for a wider variety of sleepers.
- Heavy: A heavy duvet is the warmest option. It features a denser fill, a higher fill power, and a lower loft overall. These duvets aren’t suitable for those who sleep hot. However, if you need more warmth on cold nights, a heavy duvet is the best option for you.
Weight is often tied to the fill power represented in each duvet. Both of these factors can help you determine which option is best for you. Consider how you sleep, your sleeping position and temperature, and other factors about your sleeping space before you choose a weight.
Size
The size of your duvet matters, especially when considering the size of your mattress. There are two different options for you. You can choose a duvet that matches the size of your mattress, or you can choose a larger duvet. It depends on what you want and who you share a bed with.
A duvet that matches your mattress size will be less expensive, but it may also be better if you and your partner are great at sharing blankets. If you have a deep mattress or sleep with a cover-stealing partner, choose the next size up. This is also perfect if you want the duvet to drape over the sides of the mattress.
Most duvets come in multiple sizes, ranging from Twin to Full, Queen to King and beyond. You should choose the size that you think will best fit your bed.
No matter which duvet size you choose, make sure to choose one that will work on a long-term basis. Duvets are an investment, and you don’t want to change them out before you need to.
Duvet Construction and Stitching
The construction of a duvet and stitching pattern has a lot to do with how comfortable the duvet is. There are a few different common construction options, each of which helps keep the fill right where it is. Without a stitched construction, the fill will easily move around, making the duvet unbalanced.
Duvet constructions include:
- Baffle box. Small fabric barriers keep the fill in small, box-shaped compartments instead of allowing it to move around. This helps hold the fill down but still gives it enough room to loft properly. This construction uses fabric baffles within the duvet, which allows for better separation in duvets with more loft.
- Quilt Stitching. Quilted duvets keep filling separated without the fabric barriers. It’s less expensive and works best for duvets with lower fill power or loft.
- Channel. Channel-stitched duvets have parallel seams. Down often shifts toward the bottom of each channel with this construction, and there’s more freedom to move with this option.
- Gusset. A gusseted duvet has separate channels around the sides, which gives the middle of the duvet more loft and height. They also have baffle box stitching.
Most of the construction types across the duvets in our list fit into one of these categories. Each type of construction lends the duvet a different feel, and some even provide better protection against shifting fill. While the stitching and construction of your duvet might not seem important, it’s a critical part of what makes the duvet durable.
Frequently Asked Questions
While many of the duvets in our list today perform great in the cold, the best duvet for winter is the Silk & Snow Down Alternative Duvet. This duvet has a specific fill weight option just for winter that you can choose at checkout, making it perfect for Canadians that sleep cold. Those who have more severe winters will love the way this duvet keeps them warm on colder nights.
Some of the duvets on our list today can be machine washed and dried. Those that were noted as being able to be cleaned at home can be machine washed on cold and tumble dried on low. Some of the duvets we reviewed can only be professionally cleaned or dry cleaned. Make sure to use a duvet cover with all duvets to ensure a longer life for your new duvet.
Many of our duvets that we compared today have cotton covers, which do a good job of reducing overall heat. For Canadians who sleep extra hot or are looking for a specific cooling duvet, the Hush Microgravity Duvet is the best bet. This duvet has Hush Iced technology, which actively cools and reduces temperatures night after night.
We recommend using a duvet cover with any duvet. A duvet cover is easy to install and can help extend the lifespan of your duvet. When it’s time to wash your bedding, you can remove the duvet cover and wash it with the rest of your sheets, meaning your duvet only needs to be cleaned a few times a year. Since care for a duvet is often complicated, this is a great way to avoid dealing with more hassle than you need to.
Duvets should have loops in the corners to secure inside the duvet cover. Duvet covers, on the other hand, have loops on the inside. Matching up these loops to secure them together is the best way to install your duvet cover. The actual installation process may be difficult at first, especially as you try to get the duvet cover over the duvet evenly. Practice makes perfect!
