How to Choose the Right Duvet for Winter

When the evenings draw in and the heating goes on, the bed becomes one of the most important places in the house. A good duvet makes a real difference to how warm and rested you feel through the colder months. With so many fillings, weights and sizes to choose from, it helps to know what to look for before you buy.

Understanding tog ratings

The tog rating tells you how well a duvet keeps in warmth. The higher the number, the warmer the duvet. It does not describe how heavy the duvet feels, so a high-tog duvet with a light filling can still feel airy.

• Lower togs suit summer, warm bedrooms and people who tend to overheat at night.
• Medium togs are a good middle ground for spring and autumn or for well-heated homes.
• Higher togs are the usual choice for winter, older houses and cooler bedrooms.

If you find it hard to settle on one weight, a combination or all-season duvet is worth considering. These come as two separate layers that you can use on their own or fasten together when the weather turns cold.

Natural or synthetic filling?

The filling affects warmth, weight, feel and care, so it is worth thinking about how you sleep.

• Down and feather fillings are light, soft and good at trapping warmth. They mould around the body and can last a long time if looked after well. A down duvet is a popular choice for anyone who wants warmth without bulk.
• Synthetic fibre fillings are usually easier to wash at home and are often chosen by people who prefer to avoid feathers. They can be a practical option for guest rooms and children's beds.
• Other natural fillings, such as wool or plant fibres, are also available and tend to feel breathable.

If anyone in the household has allergies, check the product details carefully and look for fillings and covers suited to sensitive sleepers.

Getting the size right

A duvet that is too small leaves gaps at the sides, which lets cold air in and often leads to a nightly tug of war. As a general rule, choose a duvet that hangs comfortably over both sides of the mattress. Many couples find that going one size up from the bed gives more comfort, especially on larger beds.

Remember to check the measurements of your duvet covers too. Sizes can vary slightly between brands, and a cover that is too tight will flatten the filling and reduce its warmth. You can browse matching covers and sheets in our bedsheets collection.

Caring for your duvet

A little care keeps a duvet fresh and warm for longer:

• Always use a duvet cover and wash it regularly.
• Shake the duvet out each morning to restore its loft and spread the filling evenly.
• Air it outdoors or by an open window on a dry day from time to time.
• Follow the care label when washing, and make sure the duvet is completely dry before you put it back on the bed.
• Store spare duvets in a breathable bag rather than plastic, so moisture cannot build up.

Making the bedroom cosy

The duvet is the centre of a warm bed, but layers help too. A throw at the foot of the bed, a pair of extra pillows and a soft rug beside the bed all add comfort on cold mornings. Taken together, these small choices turn the bedroom into a calm, inviting retreat for the whole winter.