What is the Difference Between Quilt and Doona

The main difference between quilt and doona is that a quilt is a warm decorative bed covering made of padding enclosed between layers of fabric and kept in place by lines of stitching, while a doona is a type of bedding made of a soft, flat bag filled with feathers, silk, wool, down or other alternatives.

Both are soft and comfortable bed coverings. In modern British English, these two names are sometimes used interchangeably, irrespective of the quilted pattern on the bed covering.

Key Areas Covered

1. What is a Quilt 
     – Definition, Features
2. What is a Doona
     – Definition, Features
3. What is the Difference Between Quilt and Doona
     – Comparison of Key Differences

Key Terms

Doona, Quilt

What is a Quilt

A quilt is a warm bed covering made of padding enclosed between layers of fabric and kept in place by lines of stitching, usually applied in a decorative design. A quilt traditionally consists of three layers. It has a woven cloth top, a woven back and a layer of padding in between. These three layers are all stitched together in decorative patterns. The top layer has a series of complex and decorative stitches to combine fabrics. There are various customary patterns and traditions regarding the design of quilts. Patchwork, log cabin, flying geese, double wedding ring, etc. are some designs associated with stitched quilts. Moreover, the back layer also comprises of thick fabric, sewn together like the top layer. Quilts are generally made of lightweight materials like cotton.

Figure 1: Quilt

Some modern quilts are made using machines, but these are somewhat cheaper than traditional, handmade quilts. Moreover, modern quilts are not always used as bed linens. Some use them as wall hangings, table runners, as well as throws. There are also occasional quilts with a single piece of fabric on the top.

What is a Doona

A doona is a type of bedding made of a soft, flat bag filled with feathers, silk, wool, down or other alternatives. In fact, doona is the same as a duvet. The name doona is most commonly used in Australia while duvet is the name used in most other countries, especially in European countries. Originally, these were called ‘continental quilts’ in Australia, the name doona actually originates from brand name created by Kimptons (Northern Feather).

Traditionally, a doona serves as the top layer of bedding and lies above a top sheet or fitted sheet. Also, doonas can help you to make a bed easily, as they can be even used without top sheets, blankets, or other bed covers. Moreover, doonas can be warmer than blankets without becoming heavy.

Figure 2: Doona without Covers

Doonas generally come with a removable cover. This cover fits around the doona, just like the way a pillowcase covers a pillow. Besides, this cover has both functional and decorative functions. It can keep the doona clean and protected and add a decorative touch to the bed, as well. Moreover, these covers come in various materials, colours and designs.

Similarities Between Quilt and Doona

• Sometimes, the names quilt and doona are used interchangeably, especially in British English.  

Difference Between Quilt and Doona

Definition

A quilt is a bed covering made of padding enclosed between layers of fabric and kept in place by lines of stitching while a doona is a type of bedding made of a soft, flat bag filled with feathers, silk, wool, down or other alternatives.

Nature

Quilts have three layers: woven cloth top, a woven back and a layer of padding in between while doonas come with a removable cover.

Conclusion

The main difference between quilt and doona is that a quilt is a warm decorative bed covering made of padding enclosed between layers of fabric and kept in place by lines of stitching, while a doona is a type of bedding made of a soft, flat bag filled with feathers, silk, wool, down or other alternatives.

Reference:

1. “What Is a Quilt.” AanyaLinen, Available here.
2. “Duvet.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 2 Mar. 2020, Available here.

Image Courtesy:

1. “White, gray, quilt, set, bed, bedroom, lamp, headboard, bedding, also, pillow” (CC0) via Pxfuel
2. “White-duvet” By Wikicanadashawn – Own work (CC BY-SA 3.0) via Commons Wikimedia