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Breathe New Life Into Your Bed With the Best Bedspreads

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By Old House Journal Review Team
Last updated: 24 Mar 2023

When you come home after a tiring day, you need a comfy bed to snuggle into. While several factors determine a bed’s comfort, bedspreads can be a game-changer in terms of coziness. 

A bedspread is a lightweight top layer added to a bed for decorative purposes, but it also provides warmth and keeps you snug. Lightly quilted bedspreads can be used as a flat sheet in hotter weather when a duvet feels too warm. When it gets a little chilly, you can also use a bedspread as an extra layer over your duvet. Bedspreads can even be folded and used as runners for the end of the bed.

You can find a variety of bedspreads and coverlets in different materials, colors, and styles, making it hard to find the perfect one for your home. So, to help you pick out the right product, we’ve shared our favorite bedspreads of 2023 along with a detailed buyer’s guide. Let’s take a look!

Buying Guide for the Best Bedspreads

Many factors come into play when choosing a bedspread for your home. You need something that looks nice, feels cozy, and lasts long. If you keep factors in mind, you should easily be able to find the perfect bedspread for your bedroom or guest suite. Unfortunately, the home linen market is saturated with all sorts of materials, colors, and sizes, making finding a suitable option more tedious than it should be. So, we’ve put together an in-depth buying guide to help you identify the ideal bedspread for your home.

What To Look for When Buying Bedspreads

Fabric

You can find bedspreads made with different fabrics, but they should be closely woven regardless of the material. Compared to loosely woven weaves, firm weaves last longer and wrinkle less. Also, the fabric you choose must be easy to maintain, or you’ll have a hard time keeping it clean. To find an easy-to-care-for material, consider its design, finish, texture, and weight. These factors can be assessed by going through some customer reviews.

Size

Bedspreads are made for different bed sizes, including single, double, king, queen, and more. As such, it’s important to choose a spread that goes with your bed size. Additionally, consult the manufacturer’s label to check the shrinkage information. Shrinkage shouldn’t be more than 5% if you want the spread to keep its size after washing or dry cleaning.

Style

Your bedspread’s style should complement the overall character of the room, as well as depict the resident’s tastes. To add a soft touch to your space, ruffles and floral quilted spreads are appropriate. Some spreads also look more attractive with dust ruffles. On the other hand, look for a heavily textured fabric with a plaid or checked design for a more sophisticated look.

Weight

Choosing a lightweight or heavy spread for your bed is a matter of personal preference. Some people don’t enjoy being under a weighted blanket and go for a lightweight throw, even in colder weather, while others prefer heavier quilts over summery coverlets.

Finding the Right Size Bedspread

Single size

Not every room has the space for a king-size bed, and a single or twin bed works well in such spaces. To fit single beds, single bedspreads are needed, so they don’t overhang too much. A single bedspread measures approximately 53 x 78 inches, roughly the same size as a single duvet. While this size is ideal for a single bed, you’ll need to size up if you want more overhang.

Double size

A double bed is one of the most popular bed sizes, especially for couples. For a double bed, having the right size bedspread is necessary to keep at least two people covered.

On average, a double bedspread measures approximately 78 x 78 inches, the same as a double duvet — this size will fit your double bed without any overhang. If you’re not a fan of extra fabric hanging around your bed, this size is well-suited to your needs. But, if you like overhanging spreads, you may need one size up.

King size

The king-size bed is undoubtedly fit for a king, and so should the bedspread. A king-size bedspread adds a luxurious look to your bed and elevates the overall aesthetic of any space. It is the final touch you add to your room, so it should be sized perfectly, or it will look out of place.

Most king-size bedspreads measure approximately 90 x 86 inches, fitting perfectly on a king-size bed. They also often overhang a little to make the bed look royal and regal.

Types of Bedspreads

Comforter

A comforter acts as a decorative top layer on your bed and contains different types of fillings, like polyester batting, wool, down feathers, or silk. Comforters are stitched and quilted to distribute the filling evenly and keep it in place. Most modern comforters are machine washable, so you don’t have to worry about their upkeep.

The warmth level and weight of a comforter depend on the thickness — or loft — of the filling. Most comforters come in different weights, determining their warmth. So, if you live in warmer regions, choose a lightweight comforter. Alternatively, you’d want to select weighted comforters for colder areas.

Duvet and duvet cover

Duvets are another form of comforter filled with layers of different materials. Most duvets contain down feather filling, but you can also find polyester batting, silk, or wool-filled duvets.

The difference between a comforter and a duvet is that the latter acts as an insert for a duvet cover. You’ll generally find plain white duvets that come with colorful and patterned covers. The covers make cleaning duvets easier because you can take them off and throw them in the washer. But make sure the duvet fits snuggly into the cover, or you’ll be struggling to find the right side while sleeping.

Duvets also come in weights, so you can choose a lighter or heavier one depending on the weather.

Quilt

Quilts consist of three layers: a woven cloth top, a woven cloth bottom, and a layer of batting in between. All three layers are stitched in a decorative pattern. Traditional quilts feature a top layer sewn together with multiple fabrics and a single piece of fabric for the bottom.

Besides being used as blankets, quilts are often hung on walls, especially vintage ones or those with special meanings. Traditionally, quilts were made to mark important life events, like marriage or a new baby. 

Quilts offer a perfect level of warmth and they are often used in colder weather. You can wash a quilt in a washing machine using cold water and mild detergent. To dry it properly, you should lay it flat instead of hanging it.

Coverlet

Coverlets are lightweight bedspreads designed to be used as an add-on with a thicker, warmer spread. Some coverlets also include a thin layer of batting, making them sufficiently warm for a chilly afternoon, but thin coverlets are only suitable for moderately cold nights.

Most coverlets are non-reversible, but you can find reversible ones, too. They can be quilted or woven, which also impacts their warmth level. To create ornate quilted patterns, like diamond, herringbone, and floral, a centuries-old technique called matelassé is used. And, if you get a coverlet with a coordinating sham, you can use it as a throw blanket on your couch.

Washing a coverlet can be tricky, so you have to be careful while doing it. You can wash it in a washing machine in a gentle setting. Avoid using any chemicals, and only use cold water with mild detergent. Dry it partially in a dryer on low heat and delicate settings, but remove the coverlet while it is damp or it will shrink.

Choosing a Bedspread Material

Cotton

The top choice for bedspreads is cotton, which is a soft and breathable material compared to other fabrics. As cotton prevents overheating, it remains usable all year — it’s cool in summer and cozy in winter. Cotton is also ideal for rough use in busy households, as it can withstand multiple washes.

Polyester

Polyester bedspreads are made with synthetic materials and come in multiple colors and finishes. This material is durable, highly practical, wrinkle-resistant, and less prone to fading and shrinking. But if you’re a hot sleeper, polyester may not be the wisest choice for you. Unlike natural fibers, polyester doesn’t breathe and traps heat. So, you’ll get hot while sleeping if you use a polyester bedspread.

Velvet

Velvet is the definition of luxe home décor. Whether it is curtains, pillows, sofa throws, or bedspreads; velvet can bestow an instant touch of glamor on anything and everything. It is soft to the touch, looks elegant, and elevates your room décor with a luxurious finish.

Here Is/Are the Best Bedspreads of 2023

1

Bedsure Bedspread

– Best Overall
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Bedsure’s Bedspread is a lightweight quilt set that comes with one coverlet and two pillow shams. It is stitched in a classic basket-weave pattern to make your space look classy without being overwhelming. Made with 100% polyester microfiber, this spread is lightweight yet warm enough to keep you snug without suffocating.

Upkeep is a breeze with this coverlet because it is machine-washable. Another plus about this bedspread is that it keeps pet hair from sticking, making it easier to clean and maintain. The tight stitching withstands occasional washing well, and the basket-weave pattern also provides more strength. The attention to the stitching details, the softness, and the affordability of this bedspread make it top our list.

Pros
  • Super soft and lightweight
  • Quality stitching doesn’t unravel with rough use
  • Easy to wash
Cons
  • May pill with excessive washing
2

Mellanni Bedspread

– Lightweight Pick
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If you’re someone who likes trying new things, the Mellanni Bedspread is the perfect option for you. It uses ultrasonic quilting technology instead of regular stitching, which doesn’t unravel or leave loose threads after a single wash and is both wrinkle and shrink-resistant. Plus, the fine workmanship is quite appealing to look at.

This is a three-piece quilt set that comes with a bedding cover and two shams. Because it’s made with soft, lightweight brushed microfiber, this bedspread can be added to your oversized comforter without feeling bulky. So, if you tend to get hot while sleeping, this spread is ideal as it offers a luxurious warmth that doesn’t feel too hot.

Pros
  • Long-lasting brushed microfiber doesn’t pill
  • Robust ultrasonic stitching 
  • Come in a reusable zippered bag
Cons
  • May run big for lower bed frames
3

Great Bay Home Reversible Bedspread

– Reversible Design
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The Great Bay Home Bedspread is a two-piece set that comes with a quilt and a pillow sham. It is available in a variety of colors and designs with an oceany, marine theme. So, if you’re creating a beach house vibe in your room, this spread will pull everything together with its coastal aesthetic.

This bedspread is made with breathable microfiber to help you get a good night’s sleep, and it has a cotton and polyester filling to keep you warm in colder weather. Even more, the stitching displays fine workmanship and withstands regular wear and tear. It is also machine-washable, making maintenance a breeze, and doesn’t lose its softness after a single wash.

Pros
  • Soft and smooth hand feel
  • Lightweight cotton and polyester filling
  • Reversible design adds versatility
Cons
  • Color may fade over time
4

Madison Park Bedspread

– Super Warm
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If you’re not a fan of getting cold while sleeping, the Madison Park Bedspread is perfect for you. It is an all-season three-piece quilted set that comes with two shams and a spread, which is made with 100% polyester microfiber and contains 200 GSM cotton filling to keep you warm. 

This bedspread features a Damask design made with stitching details, which subtly updates your room and blends well with your existing décor. Best of all, the spread is reversible, so you can flip it whenever you want to have the opposite side on display. It is also machine washable, so you don’t have to worry about getting the bedspread dry-cleaned every time it gets dirty.

Pros
  • Ideal weight for all seasons
  • Suitable for taller beds
  • Wrinkle, rip, and tear-resistant
Cons
  • Not true to color
5

Fancy Linen Bedspread

– Ultra-Soft Material
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The Fancy Linen Bedspread is an oversized coverlet that includes two pillow shams and a coverlet. You don’t even need a bed skirt with this spread as it covers the bed from all sides, and since it is made with 100% microfiber, it feels super soft to the touch.

This bedspread isn’t so heavy that it’ll smother you while you sleep, but is thick enough to keep you warm. It feels like a thin quilt that stays on top of you without suffocating. This spread is also machine washable, which makes it easy to clean. It is lightweight and doesn’t get too heavy to handle when wet, and spins evenly in the dryer. And, as the cherry on top, its material is high quality and doesn’t become unpleasantly coarse after washing.

Pros
  • Lightweight and easy to wash
  • Thick enough to keep you cozy
  • Available in various colors and patterns
Cons
  • May have a strong smell

People Also Asked

Q: How much should a bedspread overhang?

A: Bedspreads look classy when they overhang, but they shouldn’t overhang to an inappropriate size. You should have your spread overhang at least 2 inches off the bed to let it cover the sides sufficiently without looking bulky.

Q: Are bedspreads bigger than comforters?

A: Yes, bedspreads are more oversized than comforters because they are designed to cover the entire bed with a little overhang. The overhang is sufficient to cover the box spring area, which isn’t the case with a comforter. Comforters are usually smaller than bedspreads and require a bed skirt to cover the box spring.

Q: Is a quilt heavier than a bedspread?

A: Quilts are heavier than bedspreads because they are designed to provide warmth in colder weather. They are pre-filled sheets with layers of fabric, feathers, or cotton held in place through quilting, which adds to their weight.

Q: What color bedspread should I choose?

A: When it comes to bedspread colors, the sky’s the limit, but you need to keep your room’s size, furnishings, and aesthetics in mind to pick one. For smaller rooms, look for minimally contrasting spreads to make the room look more open. On the other hand, if your room gets a little hot, choose cooler colors and textures that look and feel pleasing.

Q: Where should I place a single bedspread?

A: Single bedspreads are suitable for individual guest bedrooms or kids’ bedrooms. They can also go in spare bedrooms.

Bed Sheets Bedding Bedroom
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By Old House Journal Review Team
The Old House Journal Review Team’s product reviews and in-depth guides are here to help you restore, repair, update, and decorate your home. The content is created by The Old House Journal Review Team. The Old House Journal editorial staff is not involved. Old House Journal is reader-supported: When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
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