Navigating the Labyrinth of Linens: A Discerning Consumer’s Guide to Duvet Cover Sizing

The average American, confronted with the task of choosing a duvet cover, might be forgiven for experiencing a wave of bewilderment. Is it not simply a matter of matching the size of the duvet cover to the size of the bed? Alas, dear reader, the world of home furnishings is rarely so straightforward.

While the bedding experts we consulted provide a plethora of information on selecting the appropriate thread count, laundering techniques, and even the philosophical implications of duvet drift, they neglect to offer specific guidance on selecting the correct size duvet cover for one’s duvet insert.

However, we can glean some useful insights from the information provided. An expert in the field of duvet covers notes that “a duvet and duvet cover will sometimes be smaller in size than a comforter meant for the same size bed.” This crucial detail suggests that the size printed on the duvet cover label may not always correspond exactly to the dimensions of the duvet insert or the bed itself. The expert goes on to advise that “you may want to go a size up—for example, you may want to buy a queen-sized duvet or comforter for your full-sized bed for extra overhang on the sides of the bed.”

Further complicating matters is the fact that, as the aforementioned expert observes, “sizes differ from brand to brand for both types of bed covers.” This suggests that the discerning consumer would be wise to consult the manufacturer’s size chart before making a purchase, rather than relying solely on the stated size.

Therefore, when venturing into the often-confusing realm of duvet cover sizing, the wise shopper should arm themselves with a tape measure and a healthy dose of skepticism. Measure your duvet insert carefully, compare those dimensions to the manufacturer’s size chart, and don’t hesitate to size up if you prefer a more generous drape or if you frequently find yourself battling duvet drift in the night.