When I first started quilting, I didn’t give much thought to quilt covers. I mean, why would I need one? I already had this beautiful quilt, right? But after a few washes (and, let’s be honest, a few accidental spills), I quickly realized how useful a quilt cover could be! It’s like a little secret weapon for your bedding—a way to protect your quilt and give your bedroom a fresh look without too much effort.
Whether you’ve got a gorgeous quilt you want to keep pristine, or you just love switching up your bedroom decor, quilt covers are a total game changer.
Plus, they’re a lot easier to wash than your whole quilt!

Now, if you’re anything like me, you’ve probably heard these things called a doona cover, duvet cover, or even a blanket cover and wondered if they’re the same thing.
Well, they are—sort of! A quilt cover is designed to cover your quilt (obviously), but it’s also a versatile piece of bedding that works with other types of bed coverings like duvets or comforters. Whether you’re in the United States and calling it a duvet cover or down in Australia using the term “doona cover,” the concept is pretty much the same: it’s a protective cover for the top layer of your bed.
One of the main reasons I love quilt covers is the convenience.
I can swap one out for another depending on the season. In the summer months, I opt for lighter, breathable fabrics like cotton blends, but when the colder months roll around, I grab a thicker, warmer option for that extra warmth.
And let’s be real, having a quilt cover set ready to go means I don’t have to spend a fortune redecorating my entire bed every time I get the itch for a new look.
In this article, I’m going to walk you through everything you need to know —what they are, why they’re a good idea, how to choose the right one, and how to care for them.
Whether you’re already a fan or just now thinking about adding one to your bedding options, I’ve got you covered (pun intended)!
What even is a Quilt Cover?
Let’s start with the basics—what exactly is a quilt cover? Well, it’s like a big pillowcase, but for your quilt or duvet insert.
You can pop it on and off whenever you need, and it’s designed to protect your quilt while also adding some style to your bedroom.
The main reason I use one is to keep my quilt looking fresh and clean without having to wash the whole thing all the time. Whether you’re calling it a doona cover (hello, Aussies!) or a duvet cover in the United States, they all do the same thing—keep your bedding looking fabulous and in good shape.

Why do you want to use a cover?
There are a lot of good reasons to use a quilt cover. For starters, it gives you some extra warmth during the colder months since it acts as a top layer on your bed.
It’s also a great way to protect your quilt from everyday dust, dirt, and those inevitable spills.
If you’re someone who loves changing up your bedroom decor, a quilt cover set is a cost-effective way to do it without having to buy a whole new quilt.
Plus, most quilt covers are machine washable, which makes laundry day so much easier!
Best materials to use for making one
Quilt covers come in a bunch of different materials, so you can pick the one that fits your personal preference and the time of year.
For summer months or warmer weather, cotton blends or organic cotton are perfect choices because they’re breathable. In the winter months, though, I like to go for something cozier like flannel or even silk duvet covers for extra warmth.
If you prefer easy care, synthetic materials like microfiber are durable and can handle frequent washing.
For those who love natural materials, linen or down feathers give your bedding that extra touch of luxury.

Choosing the right one for season or decor
Choosing the right quilt cover is all about thinking through a few key details.
First, make sure you’re getting the right size—king quilt covers obviously won’t work on a twin bed!
Then, think about how you want it to close—do you prefer buttons or zippers? And, of course, don’t forget about your personal style.
There are so many options out there, from solid colors to bold patterns, so you can easily find something that matches your bedroom decor.
Also, remember the season! Lighter cotton blends are great for warmer months, and thicker fabrics work best in the colder months.
How do you take care of it
Taking care of your quilt cover is super easy.
Most covers—whether they’re made from cotton blends or synthetic fibres—can go straight into the washing machine, no problem.
For more delicate fabrics like silk duvet covers, you might need to give them a bit more special care, so always check the label.
If you stick to durable fabrics like cotton, you’ll find that they can handle frequent washing and still hold up well. It’s always a good idea to have a few covers on hand to rotate through the different seasons and keep your bedding looking fresh year-round.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How do I insert a quilt into a quilt cover?
Putting a quilt into a quilt cover is kind of like getting a duvet into its protective cover.
The main difference is that quilts can sometimes be a bit thicker, so it might take a little patience to get everything lined up just right.
A step-by-step guide definitely helps here!
What’s the difference between a quilt cover and a duvet cover?
Even though these terms are used interchangeably, there’s a slight difference.
A quilt cover is used for covering quilts made from various materials, while a duvet cover is specifically for a duvet, which is typically filled with down feathers or synthetic fibres.
But honestly, in everyday use, they serve the same purpose!
How often should I wash my quilt cover?
If your quilt cover is in direct contact with your skin, like a top sheet or flat sheet, it’s best to wash it every couple of weeks—just like you would with your bed sheets.
If you’re using a fitted sheet or a blanket cover underneath, you can go a little longer between washes.
Can I use a quilt cover in warmer climates?
Yes, quilt covers are a great option even in warmer climates!
Just opt for lighter materials like organic cotton or cotton blends to stay cool and comfy during the warmer months.
Do quilt covers come in different styles?
Absolutely! Whether you’re into solid colors, bold patterns, or soft pastels, there’s a quilt cover out there for everyone.
With so many styles and fabrics available, you can easily change up your bedding whenever you want!

A quilt cover, much like a duvet cover or doona cover, is a removable, protective layer that helps keep your quilt clean while adding a personal style to your bedroom.
They come in a variety of materials like cotton blends, natural fabrics, and synthetic fibers—each with their own benefits depending on your needs and the season.
From extra warmth during the colder months to lightweight options for summer, quilt covers provide a flexible, cost-effective way to refresh your bedding and match your decor.
Caring for quilt covers is super simple, with most of them being machine-washable and durable. Plus, they come in all sorts of sizes and designs, so you can easily find the perfect fit for your bed and personal style.
I hope this has helped you understand why they are a great addition to your bedding set, offering both practicality and the opportunity to switch up your room’s look whenever you feel like it!
Additional Quilting Resources
- How to care for your finished quilt
- What fabric is best for making lunch bags
- Homemade Spray Starch – save $$
- Buying fabric and supplies from a thrift store – everything you need to know

Becky Jorgensen is the creative quilter behind Patchwork Posse, the Patchwork Planner and her online quilt group Patchworkers Plus. You can find her patterns in books, magazines, and her quilt membership. Gather your quilting supplies, organize your sewing space, explore the process of disappearing quilt blocks, or finish a free quilt pattern. I'll help you use what you have, finish what you start and make your quilting journey fun!
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