Ideas + Advice

What Is a Coverlet? How To Use One In Your Space

Layered bed in a modern bedroom

A coverlet is a lightweight layer to complement your bedding and help bring it together for a more complete, neat look. Typically put on top of a duvet or quilt at the end of the bed, it’s the perfect accent for your bed and adds an extra layer of light warmth. A coverlet is typically a bit smaller than a quilt or duvet, so if you have a bed skirt, it will just brush the top when laid on top of the bed. Coverlets are ideal for versatile spaces that have varying temperatures throughout the year—the perfect light cover for hotter climates or an extra touch of warmth in colder months. They provide a decorative touch to easily give your bed a polished look.

A coverlet is an ideal choice if you’re looking for more modern and versatile bedding. Whether you love a minimalist look, need an extra layer of light warmth or want your made bed to have an extra neat touch, this layer can work in any bedroom in your home.

Coverlet vs. Quilt

Gray sateen quilt on made bed

A coverlet and a quilt may seem similar at first glance, but there are some key differences to keep in mind when styling your bedding. Quilts are warmer—made of two pieces of fabric with soft batting stitched in between, they’re thicker than coverlets. They’re also typically bigger and will cover more of your bed. This is ideal if you like a bit of extra coverage or share your bed with a partner. 

In terms of their purposes, quilts are more often the primary blanket on a bed. Coverlets are typically that extra layer to put on top of your main bedding for decorative purposes. Coverlets can often be more neutral in order to go with many types and patterns of bedding, while quilts can offer a wider array of patterns and colors to choose from. 

Coverlet vs. Duvet

Linen striped duvet cover and shams

Coverlets and duvets have the greatest differences between them. Duvets are much thicker and provide more warmth than coverlets or even quilts. They are made up of a thick insert that’s typically filled with down or a down alternative. They are then put inside a duvet cover that can be removed for cleaning. 

While there are various levels of warmth when it comes to picking a duvet insert and filling type—some are cooler and more breathable than others—they are meant for colder climates or cold sleepers. For a finished look, a coverlet draped on top of a duvet is the way to go.

How To Layer a Bed with a Coverlet

Velvet blue coverlet on made bed

Layering your bed is the best way to make your space come together. Thankfully, doing this is easy with a coverlet, whether you have a quilt or a thicker duvet. Start by making your bed as you usually do. Then, at the foot of the bed, drape your coverlet so it just spills over the edge. You can also fold it in half or into thirds so it can be easily pulled up in the night for extra warmth.


Now that you know what a coverlet is and how to use it, it’s time to start styling your bedroom! Whether you love a cozy and neutral look or want something more bold, there are plenty of bedding looks to choose from.

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