What Is a Bedspread & How Is It Different From Other Bedding?
Do you need a bedspread for your bed?
A bedspread is a decorative single-layer covering designed to cover the pillows and drape over all three sides of the bed. This versatile piece serves multiple purposes ranging from adding visual appeal to providing added warmth. Since there is such a broad range of bedding available, this guide will take a closer look at what a bedspread is, its uses, and how it differs from other types of bed linens.
What Is the Definition of a Bedspread?
(Shop this image: orange bedspreads, bed pillows, white nightstands, white table vases, and jute and sisal area rugs)
A bedspread is both a functional and aesthetic bedding piece that sits above the sheet and duvet or comforter. It can cover the pillows or be folded back on itself from the top (about halfway down the bed) to create a layered look. The length of a bedspread can vary from covering the mattress edges to touching the floor (or just above), depending on what you prefer.
What Is a Bedspread's Purpose?
A bedspread can be used for the following reasons:
- To bring color and patterns into your bedroom for a boost of style or a simple refresh.
- To give the bed a neat look by covering the box springs and any other bedding.
- To protect the bedding beneath it from dust, dirt, and fur.
- To give an extra layer of warmth over other bedding.
- To be swapped in during warmer summer months when a more lightweight blanket is needed.
- To layer with other bedding for a more bold contrast against white or more muted linens.
- To make it easier to make up the bed as bedspreads don't require a cover unlike duvets or comforters.
- To provide an easily removable layer of bedding you can pull off when you want to take a nap or read.
Tip!
If you want a more in-depth look at the different parts of bedding, read Basic Parts of Bedding You Need to Know for more info.
How To Choose the Right Bedspread for Your Room
(Shop this image: brown bedspreads, bed pillows, wood and upholstered headboards, beige nightstands, and white sheets)
When selecting the right bedspread for your room, there are a few factors you should consider, namely: design, material, and size. Within each of these, you will also need to bear in mind your room color scheme, sleeping preferences, and bed size.
1. Pick Your Bedspread Design
Consider what color and pattern you want. Are you looking to create a neutral cozy space or make for a large impact with striking colors and patterns? This is entirely preferential, so take your time and select what speaks to your style. From there, you can pick from a few different types of bedspreads which include:
Quilted: These bedspreads comprise three fabric layers that are stitched together to create a textured fabric that works well when placed on top of a duvet or comforter.
Chenille/Velvet: These are plush and can be used with other blankets for added warmth or on their own for cooler nights.
Woven: These bedspreads are the thinnest as they consist of only one layer and are best used in summer and paired with a flat sheet.
Tip!
Want some help with making patterned linens work in your room? Read How to Style Patterned Bedding With 7 Simple Tips for some expert guidance.
2. Consider What Materials Are Used in Bedspreads
While bedspreads in different colors and patterns can help make a statement and enhance the look of your bedroom, their materials play a role in their comfort factor when being used. Bedspreads can be made of velvet or chenille – both soft and cozy fabrics – but they are most commonly made from two primary materials:
Microfiber/Polyester: This manufactured fiber makes for quick-drying and lightweight bedding that still keeps you warm in cooler months.
Cotton: This plant-based fiber is durable and breathable, keeping you cool in the hotter seasons. Many of these blankets vary in warmth and weight, meaning you can change them out across the seasons opting for something heavier in the winter and lighter in the summer.
3. Choose the Right Bedspread Sizes & Dimensions
It is important to select the correct bedspread size because if it's too small it will appear disproportionate on the bed, or too large and it may be overwhelming. You want to ensure it covers the entire bed while reaching your preferred length off the end and sides. To make it simple, you can select your bedspread based on the size of your bed/mattress:
How to Measure for a Bedspread
If you are looking for something more precise, you can measure your bed to determine the correct measurements. The “drop” refers to the measurement taken from the top of your mattress to the floor. It is up to you to select where you want yours to fall. To calculate the ideal bedspread size you can:
- Start by measuring the width and length (left to right and head to foot) of your mattress.
- Next measure the depth or “drop” from the top of the mattress to the floor.
- To get the bedspread width, multiply the drop and add it to the mattress width.
- To get the bedspread length, combine the drop to the length and add 16 inches (to allow for a tuck over the pillow or back over itself).
- These two numbers will give you the dimensions you need for a correctly fitting bedspread.
What Is the Difference Between a Bedspread & a Duvet?
(Shop this image: purple comforters, wood and upholstered headboards, gray area rugs, wood nightstands, bed pillows, bed pillows, and brass candle holders)
Though they may seem similar, bedspreads and duvets are quite different. They are both used as top coverings on the bed but their designs and purposes are not the same.
- Bedspreads are made to drape all the way over the bed (even to the floor), while a duvet only reaches the edge of the mattress.
- Bedspreads are lightweight and easy to layer with other bedding, whereas duvets are heavier and typically used on their own.
- Duvets are thicker, providing more warmth and weight for cold seasons. Bedspreads are much thinner with a more aesthetic purpose.
- Bedspreads are mainly made from cotton and microfiber. Duvets are filled with down or down-alternatives to create plush and heat-retaining bedding.
- Bedspreads come in different styles and designs, while duvets often need to be paired with a separate cover that features patterns and colors.
This Duvet Buying Guide will give you a deeper look at the ins and outs of duvets.
Bedspread vs. Quilt
Quilts are extremely similar to coverlets as they also add a decorative touch to your bed, but they also have some primary differences.
- Bedspreads are usually only a single layer, while quilts are always made from three layers of fabric – a top and bottom fabric layer with the middle being batting which makes them thicker and more cozy.
- Due to the filling, quilts offer more warmth than bedspreads and can be used in the colder months.
- Bedspreads are made from a solid piece of fabric, whereas quilts often feature patterns and decorative stitching.
- Some quilts are reversible, featuring a solid color on one side and a pattern on the other, while bedspreads typically only have one side.
