Coverlets

Coverlets

A coverlet is a blanket that is designed to cover the top of the bed and extend past the length and width of the mattress, and it is sometimes referred to as a quilt. The coverlet is left untucked on top of the bed and often coordinates with other linens and bedding for the bedroom, such as shams and bed skirts. A coverlet bedspread is often textured or quilted for functional and aesthetic purposes.

• Cotton and cotton blends: 100% Egyptian cotton and cotton are often used for a coverlet quilt or bedspread. If the cotton is blended, it is usually mixed with polyester. Cotton is typically used in the Matelasse style of coverlet.
• Linen: 100% linen is often used in a woven coverlet. This type of bedding is lightweight and often used during warm weather because it allows your body heat to dissipate away from you.
• Polyester: Polyester is a popular fabric for a bedding quilt. It is easy to launder and can be put in a washing machine and clothes dryer. Polyester maintains its shape and is strong enough to provide many years of use. Microfiber is a sub-type of polyester, and it features a textured and plush surface.

• Quilted: Coverlets with quilting offer texture. Matelasse is a form of textured weaving, quilting, or stitching with cotton that is done on a jacquard loom. Cotton and polyester coverlets may also be quilted. The textured quilting is typically done by machine and uses strong polyester or nylon threads to hold the layers of fabric and fiberfill together.
• Range of sizes: Coverlets are available in twin, full, queen, king, and California king sizes. Choose the same size of coverlet as you would choose for sheets. The shams are available in queen or king sizes to accommodate your pillows.
• Coordinates with bedding collections: A coverlet that is part of a collection is designed to coordinate with other types of linens, such as sheets, pillowcases, shams, and blankets. If the Matelasse covering is part of a collection, a Matelasse sham is often included.

Skin cells, sweat, oils from your skin, pet dander, and dust can get into the fibers of coverlet quilts, causing excessive wear, staining, or discoloration of the fabric. Unless the coverlet's quilting contains down feathers, it can go into your washing machine and clothes dryer at home. Most household washing machines and clothes dryers will accommodate a queen or smaller size of bed covering. A commercial washing machine may be needed to accommodate a king or a California king-sized bed cover. Use a gentle detergent that is color-safe. Coverings should be washed on the hottest water setting in order to eliminate allergens such as dust and dust mites. A heavy-duty washing cycle removes any soiling from the material. Dry your plant-based materials on a high heat setting and your polyester on low heat.