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The Best Editor-Tested Quilts and Coverlets You Can Buy Right Now

published Apr 12, 2023
We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.
white bedroom with black and white details, orange rug. Seal in upper left reads "Apartment Therapy the Best List 2023 Quilts & Coverlets"
Credit: Liz Calka

Just as we switch up our wardrobes as the weather gets warmer, transitioning our bedding for the change of seasons can make a big impact on how we feel from day to day. After all, is there anything worse than our precious sleep being disrupted by the discomfort of tossing and turning in sweat-soaked comforters? We think not, which is why we set out to uncover the best quilts and coverlets of 2023. 

While quilts and coverlets can absolutely be used as decorative accents during fall and winter, the bedding category is largely renowned for its warm-weather appeal. The reason? Unlike comforters and duvets, quilts and coverlets are known for their lightweight design and airy feel. Convinced you need to update your bed with one stat? Keep reading to discover the seven best quilts and coverlets of 2023. 

The Best Quilts and Coverlets

What to Consider When Shopping for Quilts or Coverlets

There are a few things you’ll want to think about before adding a new quilt or coverlet to your cart. They are as follows:

Size

Like most bedding, quilts and coverlets are sold in a variety of sizes to accommodate the most popular bed silhouettes. As such, when shopping for a quilt or coverlet, you’ll want to keep the size of your bed in mind. Will you pick a twin, full/queen, or king size?

Material

Quilts are sold in a variety of materials but some are more breathable than others. Generally speaking, cotton, linen, and lyocell fabrics are the most breathable, while velvet iterations are on the heavier side, making them ideal for the transition from summer into fall, all the way through winter. 

Durability

While most quilts and coverlets tend to be quite durable, those made with velvet, linen, and/or matelasse tend to be a bit more delicate, due to the material. Where velvet quilts and coverlets are more prone to potential appearance defects from being brushed in the wrong direction, linen and matelasse are notably thinner fabrics, making them more susceptible to snags. Overall, when shopping for a quilt or coverlet, you’ll want to read through shopper reviews to determine just how durable a specific silhouette is.

Certifications

Bedding essentials and other home textiles are subject to certifications that let consumers know about the materials and processes used in making them. Here’s a list of programs to look out for:

  • OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certifiedProducts are free of harmful synthetics and dyes.
  • Made in Green by OEKO-TEX certifiedMaterials used in products are traceable and have been tested for and are free from harmful substances.
  • GOTS certifiedProducts align with the Global Organic Textile Standard, which defines the worldwide recognized requirements for organic textiles.
  • Cotton LEADS program: A reliable cotton supply chain providing raw material that is responsibly produced and identified.
  • Made Safe certified: Products are nontoxic and made with safe ingredients/materials.
  • Fair Trade certified: Products are created in alignment with the economic standards in place for manufacturers to equitably distribute the benefits of ingredient, material, or product trade.
  • Global Cotton Initiative partner: The production process uses fewer synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, increases cotton yields, reduces water usage, improves soil health, and applies decent work principles.

What We Look For in a Quilt or Coverlet

We tested a range of quilts and coverlets with the below in mind:

  • Texture: How does the quilt or coverlet feel? In what season(s) would the quilt or coverlet be good to use?
  • Durability: How easy is it to clean your quilt or coverlet? How well did your quilt or coverlet hold up after being washed? How much did the quilt or coverlet shed after being washed the first time?
  • Breathability: What is the thickness of your quilt or coverlet? Which season would it work best for?

The Best Quilts and Coverlets

The Riley Four-Layer Coverlet might only be sold in neutral, cool-toned colors, but its lightweight nature and notable softness make it our top pick. “I used this blanket last summer after putting away my heavy winter comforter,” says commerce editorial assistant, Nikol. “It was the perfect lightweight covering, and it prevented me from overheating.”

Logistically, the coverlet features four layers of 100 percent premium combed cotton for an airy-yet-plush-feeling bed linen. “It’s actually quite similar to the Parachute gauze covering I’m testing now, but the Riley one is softer and lighter—plus, it looks great,” Nikol reveals.

Specifications:

  • 100% premium combed cotton
  • Available in Full/Queen and King/California King
  • Color options: White, Silver, True Navy, Charcoal, Oatmeal
  • Machine wash cold on gentle; tumble dry low
  • Standard 100 by OEKO-TEX certified

Who It’s Best For: Those looking for a cushy coverlet in a solid neutral hue.

Good to Know: According to the site, “exact dimensions and color may vary slightly due to the construction and individual dyeing process.”

The Geo Sun Printed Quilt Set from Urban Outfitters stands out with its stylish boho sun print, which is sold in yellow and cream and black and white iterations. “The mix of prints and colors creates a bohemian-inspired look that can add a fun and playful touch to any bedroom,” says social media manager, Brian. “The vibrancy of the colors and the overall softness and comfort of the quilt brought me back to when I couldn’t let go of my favorite blanket.” 

Speaking of texture and comfort, this quilt is made with 80 percent cotton and 20 percent polyester for a cushy silhouette that’s lightweight yet warm. “I would recommend it all year round except during the frigid months,” Brian admits. 

One more thing: Unlike many quilts and coverlets, the Geo Sun Printed Quilt comes with one pillow case for the Twin/Twin XL size, and two for the Full/Queen size. (Bonus: The Full/Queen size also comes with a matching tote.)

Read our full review of the Geo Sun Printed Quilt Set.

Specifications:

  • 80% cotton, 20% polyester
  • Available in Twin/Twin XL and Full/Queen
  • Color options: Yellow/Cream; Black/White
  • Machine wash cold; tumble dry low

Who It’s Best For: Those searching for a boho-chic printed coverlet that feels as good as it looks.

Good to Know: This quilt is also sold in king sizes but is currently sold out across the board. That said, UO regularly restocks items, so it may be worth checking back down the line if that’s the size you’re shopping for.

Formally known as the Heritage Quilt Set, the Signature Basketweave Quilt Set from Boll & Branch is sold in five neutral, cool-toned colors and features a classic basketweave design that looks both chic and classic. “It’s lightweight while still keeping me warm,” says senior commerce editor, Alicia. “I think it’ll be a great option for me in the summer. I also think the simple design complements my existing bedding, and I think in even colder months it could easily act as another layer if need be.” While nearly $400 for a full/queen quilt is most definitely a splurge, the fact that it includes two matching shams only adds to the value.

Specifications:

  • 100% organic cotton
  • 3 sizes: Twin, Full/Queen, King/California King
  • Color options: White, Pewter, Stone, Shore, Mineral
  • Machine wash cold; tumble dry medium
  • GOTS-Certified organic cotton
  • Standard 100 by OEKO-TEX certified

Who It’s Best For: Those craving a light-yet-warm silhouette that adds a chic classic flair to any space.

Good to Know: “The shams are a little oversized; they will require a larger pillow,” Alicia says.

The Company Cotton Voile Quilt from The Company Store is not only the best cotton quilt that we tested, it also has the best color offering. With 22 hues to choose from—including both cool- and warm-toned options—this quilt is perfect for literally anyone looking to embrace breathable, lightweight bedding for spring and summer, as well as those simply looking to add another layer at the end of their bed all year round. “In the colder months, I use it as a layer between sheets and duvet; in the warmer months, it’s the main bedding with just sheets,” says News & Culture Director, Tara.

Specifications:

  • 100% cotton voile with 100% cotton fill
  • 3 sizes: Twin, Full/Queen, King
  • 22 colors, including White, Graphite, Aqua, and Coral
  • Machine wash cold on gentle; tumble dry low

Who It’s Best For: Anyone craving a solid pop of color on their bed.

Good to Know: Some shoppers report that the quilt shrinks in the dryer.

*Honorable Mention: “I was drawn to the Mimi Geo Bed Blanket mainly for the built-in ties at the bottom—they’re really pretty, but functionally they actually wrap around the legs of your bed into a bow, which I’ve never seen in blankets before,” says Style Editor, Blair. “Thanks to this blanket, making my bed has even gotten easier, since it helps secure my bedding in place.”

One of Anthropologie’s best-selling bedding staples, the Lustered Velvet Alastair Quilt transforms any bed into a statement piece. 

“As someone who doesn’t typically turn to velvet when I’m looking into bedding or home goods, I was surprised by how much I loved this blanket,” says Best List Editor, Britt. “It looks glamorous, is big enough to cover the entire bed, and adds some amazing texture with a pleasant sheen.” While the top of the quilt is highly decorative, the underside is 100 percent smooth cotton backing. “It works fantastically for layering, especially if you want to add a bit more weight to your covers along with a touch of style,” Britt adds.

Specifications:

  • 53% cotton, 47% viscose; poly fill with 100% cotton backing
  • 5 sizes: Twin, Full, Queen, King, California King
  • Color options: Peach, Bronze, Slate Blue, Navy, and Cream
  • Machine wash cold; tumble dry low

Who It’s Best For: Those looking to add a luxe, romantic appeal (that feels wonderful) to their bed. 

Good to Know: Some shoppers report that the velvet sheds. Additionally, keep in mind that the matching shams are sold separately.

Best Patchwork: Lassen Handcrafted Quilt

If you love the Americana appeal of a handmade quilt, you’ll love the Lassen Handcrafted Quilt from Pottery Barn. “Call me old fashioned, but I love patchwork quilts, and this one feels as close to homemade as you can get,” Britt says.

This quilt in particular features various shades of blue paired with red and cream for a more neutral color palette that would work as well in a cabin as it would a modern farmhouse. “Its paneling is super charming and is done in a refreshing colorway of blues, reds, and neutrals, which brightens up my space,” Britt shares. “It also adds a nice weight to the sheets for a cozy night’s rest, and makes a great finishing piece for the bed if you’re aiming for a rustic vibe.”

Specifications:

  • 100% cotton with 100% poly fill
  • Handcrafted and sustainably sourced
  • Available in Full/Queen and King/California King
  • Machine wash warm; tumble dry low
  • Ethically handcrafted to the Nest Standards

Who It’s Best For: Those looking for a traditional-looking quilt that holds up well in the wash.

Good to Know: This quilt doesn’t come with shams—they’re sold separately.

If you’re in the market for a seriously lightweight but majorly cozy coverlet, look no further than the Casper Matelasse Coverlet. As a refresher, matelasse is a single-ply cotton fabric that’s woven to create a delicate quilted design. And according to commerce SEO editor, Sarah, the Casper Matelasse Coverlet is the best of the best. “This airy, thin blanket and sham duo is as chic as they come,” she says. “However, good looks are not all this set has to offer. With a 100-percent cotton construction, it’s also breathable and soft to the touch, a must during the warmer seasons.”

Read our full review of the Casper Matelasse Coverlet.

Specifications:

  • 100% cotton
  • Available in Full/Queen and King/California King
  • Color options: Spice, Olive, Cream

Who It’s Best For: Anyone looking for super lightweight bedding in dreamy neutral colors.

Good to Know: This coverlet is a final sale, and not advertised.