Quilts & Duvets

In Australia, the terms quilt, duvet, and doona are used interchangeably to describe the same bedding item-a soft, rectangular case filled with insulating material like down, wool, or synthetic fibers. While New Zealanders typically prefer the term "duvet," Australians commonly use "doona" or "quilt." The word "doona" is believed to derive from the Danish word "dyne," meaning down feathers.

It's worth noting that in some countries, particularly the US, a quilt might refer to a patchwork blanket, but in Australia, quilts always refer to the filled bedding layer that provides warmth and comfort. Regardless of what you call it, this essential bedding item serves the same purpose-keeping you comfortable throughout the night with its insulating properties and soft, enveloping feel.

Choosing the right quilt filling for Australia's varied climate helps ensure comfortable sleep year-round:

For summer, lightweight and breathable options are ideal. Cotton quilts offer excellent breathability and moisture-wicking properties, making them perfect for hot weather. They're naturally cool to the touch and don't trap excessive heat. Bamboo quilts are another excellent summer option, with natural temperature regulation and antibacterial properties that keep your bed fresh in humid conditions.

For winter, insulating materials provide cozy warmth. Wool quilts offer exceptional warmth with natural temperature regulation, creating a microclimate that adapts to your body. They're ideal for cold sleepers and cooler regions of Australia. Down quilts (duck or goose) provide luxurious warmth with minimal weight, trapping body heat efficiently while still allowing moisture to escape.

For year-round use, consider these versatile options. Microfibre quilts with medium weight offer good temperature regulation at an affordable price point. Many are designed with all-season comfort in mind. All-seasons quilts feature two separate quilts of different weights that can be used individually in summer or winter, or connected together for maximum warmth in the coldest months.

Your personal sleep temperature also matters-"hot sleepers" may prefer lighter quilts even in winter, while "cold sleepers" might need heavier options year-round. Many Australians find that having both a summer and winter quilt provides the most comfortable sleep experience throughout the year.

Selecting the correct quilt size ensures both comfort and aesthetic appeal. Standard Australian quilt sizes correspond to mattress dimensions: Single (140cm x 210cm), Double (180cm x 210cm), Queen (210cm x 210cm), King (245cm x 210cm), and Super King (270cm x 240cm).

However, many sleep experts and interior designers recommend sizing up-choosing a quilt one size larger than your mattress. This approach offers several benefits:

Enhanced warmth and coverage: A larger quilt drapes more generously over the sides of the bed, preventing cold drafts and reducing the likelihood of the quilt ending up on the floor if you move during sleep. This is particularly valuable if you share your bed with a partner who tends to wrap themselves in the quilt.

Aesthetic appeal: A generously sized quilt creates a luxurious, hotel-like appearance, with elegant draping over the sides of the bed. This look is particularly desirable in master bedrooms and guest rooms.

Future-proofing: If you're considering upgrading your mattress size in the future, choosing a larger quilt now means you won't need to replace it when you change beds.

For couples with different temperature preferences, a larger quilt also provides more material to adjust individual coverage. Remember that quilt covers should match your quilt size, so factor this into your decision when purchasing complementary bedding.

Proper care significantly extends the life and performance of your quilt or duvet, with specific requirements varying by filling material:

Down and Feather Quilts:

Professional cleaning is recommended, though some can be machine washed on a gentle cycle with mild detergent

Use a front-loading washer to prevent agitator damage

Dry thoroughly on low heat with dryer balls to prevent clumping

Air in sunlight occasionally to naturally disinfect

Store in a breathable cotton bag, never plastic

Fluff regularly to maintain loft and even distribution

Wool Quilts:

Most Australian wool quilts are machine washable, but always check the care label

Use wool-specific detergent and a gentle cycle with cold water

Dry thoroughly to prevent mildew-some can be tumble dried on low, others should be air dried

Air regularly in indirect sunlight to refresh the natural fibers

Avoid dry cleaning as chemicals can damage wool's natural properties

Cotton and Bamboo Quilts:

Machine wash on a gentle cycle with mild detergent

Tumble dry on low or air dry depending on manufacturer instructions

These natural fibers generally require less special care than down or wool

Reshape while damp to maintain proper dimensions

Synthetic/Microfibre Quilts:

Most forgiving in terms of care-typically machine washable and dryable

Use mild detergent and avoid fabric softeners

Dry thoroughly to prevent mildew

Shake and fluff after washing to redistribute filling

For All Quilt Types:

Use a quilt cover to protect from dirt and extend time between washings

Air your quilt regularly by pulling back bed covers during the day

Store clean, completely dry quilts in breathable bags in a cool, dry place

Consider seasonal rotation to reduce wear on any single quilt

With proper care, quality quilts can last many years-wool and down quilts often lasting 7-10 years or more with appropriate maintenance. Remember that even well-maintained quilts eventually need replacement as materials naturally compress and lose their insulating properties.

Goose down and duck down quilts both offer luxurious comfort, but they differ in several key aspects that affect performance, feel, and price:

Insulation and Warmth: Goose down typically has larger, more mature clusters that provide superior insulation with less weight. This means goose down quilts generally offer better warmth-to-weight ratio than duck down. The larger clusters create more air pockets to trap body heat efficiently, making goose down the premium choice for maximum warmth without heaviness.

Fill Power: This measure indicates how much space one ounce of down fills-higher numbers mean better quality. Goose down usually ranges from 600-800+ fill power, while duck down typically ranges from 500-650. Higher fill power translates to better loft, insulation, and longevity, which is why goose down commands a higher price.

Odor: Duck down can sometimes retain a slight natural odor, particularly in lower quality products. Goose down is generally more neutral in scent. High-quality processing minimizes this issue in both types, but it's worth considering if you're sensitive to smells.

Durability: Both down types are durable when properly cared for, but goose down's larger clusters tend to maintain their loft and insulating properties longer, often resulting in a longer-lasting quilt.

Price Point: The superior qualities of goose down come with a higher price tag. Duck down offers many similar benefits at a more accessible price point, making it an excellent middle-ground between synthetic fillings and premium goose down.

For most Australian households, a high-quality duck down quilt provides excellent comfort and warmth at a more affordable price. However, if you prioritize maximum warmth with minimal weight, or live in a particularly cold climate, the investment in goose down may be worthwhile for the superior insulation and longevity.

Wool quilts offer several natural properties that make them an excellent choice for many allergy sufferers, though individual responses can vary:

Natural Hypoallergenic Properties: Wool fibers have a unique structure that makes them naturally resistant to dust mites-one of the most common bedroom allergens. The lanolin (natural oil) in wool creates an environment that's inhospitable to these microscopic creatures, potentially reducing a major trigger for respiratory allergies.

Moisture Management: Wool can absorb up to 30% of its weight in moisture without feeling wet, which helps maintain a dry sleeping environment. This moisture-wicking ability reduces humidity in your bed, further discouraging dust mite proliferation and mold growth-both significant allergen sources.

Self-Cleaning Properties: Wool has natural antibacterial qualities and the ability to release dirt particles when aired, making it naturally cleaner than many alternative fillings. This can benefit those sensitive to bacterial or fungal triggers.

Breathability: Wool's excellent air circulation helps prevent the hot, humid environment that allergens thrive in, potentially reducing symptom triggers throughout the night.

Considerations for Wool-Specific Allergies: It's important to note that a small percentage of people have specific allergies to lanolin or wool proteins. For these individuals, a wool quilt would not be suitable regardless of its other hypoallergenic benefits.

Processing Matters: The quality of wool processing significantly impacts its allergen potential. High-quality Australian wool quilts undergo thorough cleaning and treatment to remove most allergenic proteins while preserving wool's beneficial properties.

Many allergy sufferers find that premium wool quilts actually improve their sleep quality and reduce symptoms. However, if you have known wool sensitivity or severe allergies, consider alternatives like specially treated down or high-quality synthetic options specifically designed for allergy sufferers.

Hot sleepers require quilts specifically designed to prevent overheating while still providing comfortable coverage. Several options excel at temperature regulation:

Bamboo Quilts are arguably the best choice for hot sleepers in Australia. Bamboo filling offers exceptional breathability and naturally wicks moisture away from the body, helping maintain a comfortable sleeping temperature. The material has natural temperature-regulating properties, feeling cool to the touch even in warmer conditions. Bamboo also has antibacterial properties that help keep your bedding fresh in humid environments.

Cotton Quilts provide excellent airflow and natural cooling. Cotton is highly breathable and doesn't trap heat like synthetic materials might. It efficiently absorbs moisture, helping to keep you dry throughout the night. Cotton quilts typically have a flatter profile and less loft than other options, making them ideal for those who feel smothered by fluffier quilts.

Lightweight Wool Quilts might seem counterintuitive, but wool's natural temperature regulation makes it suitable for hot sleepers when used in appropriate weights. Summer-weight wool quilts (typically 200-350 GSM) offer the moisture-wicking and breathable benefits of wool without excessive warmth. Wool's ability to absorb moisture without feeling wet helps prevent the clammy feeling that can disturb sleep.

Specialized Cooling Quilts incorporate advanced technologies like phase-change materials or cooling fibers that actively draw heat away from the body. These modern options are designed specifically for temperature regulation and can be worth the investment for those who struggle significantly with overheating.

For extreme hot sleepers, consider a quilt with a lower GSM (grams per square meter) rating-typically under 300 GSM for summer use. Many hot sleepers also benefit from using their quilt without a cover in summer months, or selecting a quilt cover made from natural, cooling fabrics like cotton percale or bamboo lyocell.

Even the highest quality quilts & duvets eventually need replacement. Here are the key indicators that it's time for a new quilt:

Loss of Loft and Insulation: If your quilt no longer regains its fluffy appearance after shaking or fluffing, the filling has likely become compressed and lost its insulating properties. This is particularly noticeable in down and feather quilts that remain flat despite attempts to redistribute the filling.

Uneven Fill Distribution: When the filling has shifted permanently and creates cold spots or lumpy areas that can't be corrected by shaking or fluffing, your quilt's internal structure has likely broken down. This commonly occurs when the internal stitching that keeps filling in place has deteriorated.

Visible Wear and Damage: Torn or worn fabric, frayed edges, or leaking filling (particularly feathers or down) indicate structural compromise that affects both performance and hygiene. Small tears can sometimes be repaired, but extensive damage usually warrants replacement.

Persistent Odors: If your quilt retains musty or unpleasant odors despite proper washing according to care instructions, this may indicate mold, mildew, or bacterial growth within the filling that can't be effectively eliminated.

Allergy Symptoms: An increase in nighttime allergies, sneezing, or respiratory issues may indicate your quilt has accumulated allergens that can't be removed with standard cleaning. This is particularly common in older synthetic quilts.

Age Considerations: As a general guideline, synthetic quilts typically last 3-5 years with regular use, wool quilts 5-7 years, and high-quality down quilts 7-10+ years. However, these timeframes can vary significantly based on care, usage, and quality.

Temperature Regulation Issues: If you find yourself consistently too hot or too cold despite appropriate seasonal bedding choices, your quilt may have lost its temperature-regulating properties.

When shopping for a replacement, consider how your needs may have changed since your last purchase. Changes in your home's heating/cooling, your body's temperature regulation, or even your sleep position might mean a different type of quilt would now serve you better.

GSM (Grams per Square Meter) is a critical measurement that indicates the weight and warmth level of your quilt or duvet. Understanding GSM helps you select the perfect quilt for your climate and personal temperature preferences:

What GSM Measures: GSM indicates the density of filling in your quilt-specifically, how many grams of filling material are used per square meter of quilt. Higher GSM numbers mean more filling, resulting in a heavier, warmer quilt.

Seasonal GSM Guidelines for Australia:

Summer Quilts: 150-350 GSM Lightweight and breathable, these quilts provide minimal insulation for warm Australian summers. Perfect for hot sleepers or tropical/subtropical regions.

Mid-Season Quilts: 350-500 GSM These versatile quilts offer moderate warmth, ideal for spring, autumn, and temperature-controlled environments. Many all-season quilts fall in this range.

Winter Quilts: 500-700+ GSM Providing maximum insulation, these heavier quilts are designed for cold winter nights, particularly in southern states or for cold sleepers.

Material Considerations: The same GSM across different materials can feel quite different. For example:

A 500 GSM wool quilt typically feels heavier and flatter than a 500 GSM down quilt

Down creates more loft and insulation at lower weights than synthetic materials

Bamboo and cotton provide less warmth at the same GSM compared to wool or down

Regional Adaptations: Australian climate variations mean GSM needs differ significantly:

Northern Queensland residents might never need above 350 GSM

Tasmanians and Victorians might use 500+ GSM quilts for much of the year

Those in temperate zones like Sydney might benefit most from mid-range or adjustable options

Personal Factors: Beyond climate, consider:

Whether you're naturally a "hot" or "cold" sleeper

Your home's heating/cooling systems

Whether you share your bed (partner's body heat)

Health conditions that affect temperature regulation

Many Australians find that having two quilts with different GSM ratings-one for summer and one for winter-provides the most comfortable sleep year-round. Alternatively, an all-seasons quilt with two different GSM layers that can be used separately or together offers adaptable warmth for changing conditions.

Microfibre quilts offer distinct advantages and limitations compared to natural alternatives like down, wool, and cotton. Understanding these differences helps you determine if synthetic filling is right for your needs:

Affordability and Value: Microfibre quilts are typically the most budget-friendly option, often costing significantly less than down or wool alternatives. This makes them accessible for first homes, rental properties, or guest rooms. Despite their lower price point, modern microfibre quilts can offer impressive comfort and durability.

Allergy Considerations: High-quality microfibre is hypoallergenic and resistant to dust mites, making these quilts excellent for allergy sufferers who may react to animal-derived fillings like down or wool. Many microfibre quilts undergo anti-allergen treatments for additional protection.

Care and Maintenance: Microfibre quilts excel in easy care-most are machine washable and dry quickly, making them practical for families with children or in humid climates where frequent washing may be necessary. They're also more resistant to mold and mildew than many natural alternatives.

Feel and Performance: Modern microfibre technology has significantly improved the feel of synthetic quilts. Premium microfibre quilts can closely mimic the softness and loft of down without the higher price tag. However, they typically don't match the breathability of natural fibers, which may be a consideration for hot sleepers.

Temperature Regulation: This is where natural fills generally outperform microfibre. While synthetic quilts provide good insulation, they don't offer the same moisture-wicking and temperature-regulating properties as wool or down. Microfibre tends to retain more heat and may cause overheating for some sleepers.

Environmental Impact: Traditional microfibre is petroleum-derived and not biodegradable, raising sustainability concerns. However, newer eco-friendly options made from recycled materials are becoming available for environmentally conscious consumers.

Longevity: With proper care, quality microfibre quilts typically last 3-5 years before losing loft and insulating properties. This is shorter than premium down (7-10+ years) or wool (5-7 years), but the lower initial investment often balances this difference.

For many Australian households, microfibre quilts represent an excellent balance of performance and value, particularly for those with allergies or budget constraints. Those prioritizing natural materials, maximum breathability, or longer-term investment might prefer natural alternatives despite the higher initial cost.

Summer and winter quilts are specifically designed to provide optimal comfort in different seasonal conditions, with variations in several key characteristics:

Weight and GSM: Summer quilts feature significantly lower GSM (typically 150-350 grams per square meter), creating a lightweight covering that provides minimal insulation. Winter quilts have much higher GSM ratings (500-700+), offering substantial insulation for cold nights. This difference in filling density is immediately noticeable when handling the quilts-summer options feel light and flexible, while winter quilts have more substance and weight.

Loft and Thickness: Summer quilts have minimal loft, lying relatively flat on the bed to allow better air circulation around your body. Winter quilts feature higher loft with more filling, creating a plush, insulating layer that traps body heat efficiently. This difference in thickness affects not only warmth but also the physical feel and presence of the quilt on your body.

Construction Methods: Summer quilts often use wider-spaced quilting patterns that create a more flexible, breathable structure. Winter quilts typically feature more densely stitched patterns that prevent cold spots and keep the heavier filling evenly distributed. These construction differences affect both performance and appearance.

Preferred Materials: Certain fillings excel in specific seasons. Cotton and bamboo are popular summer quilt materials due to their exceptional breathability and moisture-wicking properties. Wool and down are favored for winter quilts because of their superior insulation and heat retention. However, the right weight of any material can be appropriate for different seasons.

Temperature Regulation: Summer quilts prioritize heat dissipation and breathability to prevent overheating, while winter quilts focus on heat retention and insulation against cold. This fundamental difference in design purpose means using the wrong seasonal quilt can significantly impact sleep quality.

Many Australians find that investing in both summer and winter quilts provides the best sleep experience year-round, particularly in regions with distinct seasonal temperature variations. For those seeking a single solution, all-seasons quilts with detachable layers offer versatility, though they may not optimize comfort as effectively as dedicated seasonal options.

Deciding between wool and down quilts involves weighing several factors related to your sleep preferences, budget, and lifestyle:

Warmth and Weight: Down provides exceptional warmth-to-weight ratio, feeling incredibly light while delivering excellent insulation. This creates a luxurious, cloud-like sensation that many sleepers love. Wool offers comparable warmth but with more weight and substance, creating a gentle, grounding pressure that some sleepers prefer. If you enjoy feeling "cocooned" without heaviness, down may be preferable; if you like the security of weight, wool might be better.

Temperature Regulation: Wool excels at maintaining a consistent sleep temperature, actively wicking moisture away from the body and releasing it as needed. This makes wool particularly suitable for those who experience temperature fluctuations or night sweats. Down insulates superbly but doesn't manage moisture as effectively as wool, potentially creating a warmer sleeping environment that some find too hot.

Allergen Considerations: High-quality wool is naturally hypoallergenic and resistant to dust mites, making it an excellent choice for many allergy sufferers. Down can trigger allergies in sensitive individuals, though specially treated "hypoallergenic down" options are available. If allergies are a significant concern, wool generally offers more reliable relief.

Care Requirements: Wool quilts are typically easier to care for, with many Australian wool quilts being machine washable. Down requires more careful maintenance and often benefits from professional cleaning to maintain its loft and performance. For busy households or those preferring simple care routines, wool offers practical advantages.

Longevity and Investment: Premium down quilts often outlast wool options, potentially lasting 10+ years with proper care compared to wool's typical 5-7 year lifespan. However, down quilts generally command higher prices, making wool the more accessible initial investment. When calculating value over time, consider both purchase price and expected longevity.

Ethical Considerations: For environmentally or ethically conscious consumers, Australian wool often represents a sustainable, renewable resource with established animal welfare standards. Down sourcing varies widely, so look for certifications like RDS (Responsible Down Standard) if this is a priority.

Many customers find that their decision ultimately comes down to the distinct feel of each material-down's light, fluffy embrace versus wool's natural, substantial comfort. Both options offer excellent quality sleep when matched to your personal preferences and needs.

Selecting the right quilt for a bunk bed requires special consideration due to the unique constraints and safety concerns of these space-saving beds:

Standard Sizing: For most standard single bunk beds, a single quilt (140cm x 210cm) is the appropriate size. However, there are several factors that might influence you to adjust this choice:

Safety Considerations: For top bunks, it's generally advisable to use a slightly smaller or more fitted quilt rather than one that drapes significantly over the edges. Excess fabric hanging from the top bunk can create a potential hazard if it interferes with the ladder or creates a trip risk. Some parents opt for a slightly undersized quilt for top bunks to minimize this risk.

Clearance Issues: The distance between the top bunk and ceiling may limit the loft of the quilt you can comfortably use. In rooms with low ceilings or bunks with minimal clearance, a lower-loft option like a cotton or thin microfibre quilt may be more practical than fluffier down or wool alternatives.

Practical Considerations: Bunk beds can be challenging to make, particularly the top bunk. Lighter, more manageable quilts make this daily task easier, especially for children who may be responsible for making their own beds. Similarly, quilts that are easy to wash and quick to dry are advantageous for bunk bed setups.

Age-Appropriate Options: For younger children, quilts with secure stitching and durable construction stand up better to the additional wear that bunk bed use often entails. Washable materials are particularly valuable given the higher likelihood of spills or accidents.

Specialized Bunk Bed Quilts: Some manufacturers offer quilts specifically designed for bunk beds, featuring secure corner elastics or slightly modified dimensions to fit the unique requirements of these beds.

For maximum safety and convenience, consider complementing your bunk bed quilt with fitted sheet-style quilt covers that help keep everything in place, particularly for the top bunk. This approach combines safety with ease of bed-making, important considerations for both children and parents.