05 Oct, 2026
Understanding bedding terms
Gone are the days of just sheets and blankets on the bed. You are spoilt for choice with so many bed linen possibilities available to make the bed of your dreams. Bed layering and styling has become an art-form and one we like to think we've mastered at Wallace Cotton. Making a beautiful bed means considering all the options and what will work for you, your interiors style and your climate. We've created an easy to follow guide to explain three key terms - duvet cover, bed cover and quilt. Read on to learn the difference between each and how to use them on your bed.
The duvet cover
A duvet cover is a cover for your duvet inner. A duvet cover is an essential bedding layer made from two pieces of fabric where three sides are sewn closed and one end is left open for the duvet inner to be placed inside. From a 'function' point of view, a duvet cover adds a layer of easy to wash protection to your duvet inner. From a 'form' point of view, a duvet cover adds colour, pattern and style to your bed, presenting endless possibilities for creating new looks whenever you feel like a change. Think of a duvet cover as both the decorative and protective cover for your duvet inner. We recommend using a duvet cover on your bed in every season. Adapt your duvet cover for cooler or warmer seasons by swapping out the weight and warmth of your duvet inner.
The bed cover
A bed cover is typically made from one layer of fabric. Bed covers were originally designed to literally cover the bed, ie: cover the sheets, blankets and even the pillows as a way of tidying the bed. These days, a bed cover will still fully cover the bed and drape to the floor, providing a clean, simple and luxurious look but with a bit more style. Bed covers are versatile bedding pieces. For example, in the height of summer layer a bed cover over a crisp cotton flat sheet, match the top edges together then fold back, leaving the pillows and part of the fitted sheet exposed, presenting an opportunity for pattern and styling with cushions or extra pillows. In the cooler months, a textured or coloured bed cover can be used as an accent piece, sitting neatly folded on top of your quilt and duvet cover. This creates a lush, layered look that feels comforting and inviting for winter.
The quilt
A quilt is a bedding layer crafted from two outer layers of fabric with a fill layer in-between. The fill will often be breathable cotton batting or lightweight polyester wadding or in the case of an eiderdown, feather and down. These layers are all stitched together, using a decorative sewing stitch, to create one bedding piece known as a quilt. Quilts are made from beautiful patterned cottons or plain plush velvets for creating a sense of luxury and style on the bed. Quilts are one of the most versatile bedding pieces you can own. Perfect in every season, they are a linen cupboard staple. Use in summer with just a cotton sheet, layer over the duvet in winter for extra warmth and ideal for shoulder season styling.
