Winter Duvets

What to Look for in a Winter Duvet

Looking for the perfect duvet to keep you warm in the winter? We've got you covered (and bundled) with our warmest, softest, and loftiest duvets for cold sleepers and cool seasons. In case you need a little help picking the right one, let us share a few of the best things to look out for when getting your bed ready for winter.

Which duvet shells are best for a winter duvet?

The fabric encasing your duvet directly dictates its temperature regulation. Look for a down-proof cotton shell with a robust thread count—the additional thread count willl prevents the fill from escaping, while the cotton will ensure the duvet is breathable enough to avoid trapping unnecessary heat.

If you happen to run cooler than the average sleeper, duvet shells crafted from natural fibers like bamboo or TENCEL™ Lyocell can also actively wick moisture, preventing night sweats that often occur under heavy winter bedding. If you're layering up with different fabrics, these can make for an excellent alternative!

Fill Power vs GSM: What's the difference?

These Whenever you're looking at a duvet, you'll usually see its filling described with either "fill power" or "GSM".  This doesn't directly relate to how warm your duvet will be, as that can greatly depends on the materials and proportions found in your duvet. However, it's still a strong indicator of the heat and loft you'll experience, so it's important to know what each of these numbers mean:

• Fill Power (Down): This metric measures the loft and insulating efficiency of down fillings. Many of our winter-friendly down duvets include a fill power of 600+ or higher, offering maximum body heat with minimal physical weight.

• GSM (Grams per Square Meter): This refers to the density of alternative fills and fibers, with higher-density materials from 240+ or higher generally being warmer. Sustainable materials like polyester microgel or pure Australian wool provide a comforting, heavier drape while mimicking the natural insulation of down.

Certifications

If you're looking for a high-quality duvet, recognizing its certifications is key. OEKO-TEX® certification is one of the best to check for, which verify that your duvet is independently tested and free of harmful substances. Most of our duvets at QE Home are OEKO-TEX® certified.

For down duvets, look for the Responsible Down Standard (RDS) to guarantee ethical animal welfare, alongside Downmark® certification for quality assurance on items finished in Canada. For other natural duvet fills like wool, the Responsible Wool Standard (RDS) is another valuable certification, as it ensures your fill only sheep that have been treated responsibly.