6 Differences between a bed cover and a blanket: An easy and practical guide

In the world of bedding, bed covers and blankets are essential elements you often encounter. Not only do they affect the comfort of your sleep, but they also influence the aesthetics of your bedroom. 

However, did you know there are significant differences between a bed cover and a blanket? Understanding these differences will help you choose the right product to create a comfortable and attractive sleeping space. 

Your sleep quality can improve if the right bedding is chosen. Maximizing the function and aesthetics of your bedroom becomes easier when you understand when to use a bed cover or a blanket. IKEA, as one of the leading bedding providers, will help you explain these differences. 

What is a bed cover? 

Before knowing the difference between a bed cover and a blanket, you need to first understand what a bed cover is. If you're confused, we'll help explain. Here is the complete explanation. 

Definition of a bed cover and its structure 

A bed cover is a mattress cover usually used as a decorative element on a bed. Made of thinner material than a duvet or quilt, bed covers often provide a neater and cleaner look to the mattress. 

Its function is not only as a cover but also as additional protection for your duvet or quilt. Bed covers are sewn with attractive patterns and designs, enhancing the aesthetics of your bed. 

The structure of a bed cover usually consists of a smooth, aesthetically pleasing outer layer, while the inside lacks the thick filling of a quilt. Bed covers are lighter and easier to put on and take off, making them an ideal choice for maintaining mattress cleanliness without having to wash thick blankets too often. 

Advantages of bed covers 

One of the main advantages of a bed cover is its ability to add an aesthetic touch to your bedroom. With a variety of designs, you can choose a bed cover that matches your bedroom theme, whether minimalistic, modern, or classic. 

Additionally, bed covers provide extra protection for duvets or quilts, meaning you don't have to wash them too often. However, you should still maintain them to extend their lifespan. 

Apart from the decorative aspect, bed covers can also extend the life of your mattress and blanket. With this protective layer, the mattress is kept free from dust, dirt, and bacteria that can accumulate over time. This helps keep your bed hygienic and comfortable for longer use. 

What is a blanket? 

After learning what a bed cover is, you also need to know what a blanket is to understand the difference between a bed cover and a blanket. Both might be difficult to distinguish if you don't know their definitions. Therefore, here we will explain what a blanket is. 

Definition of a blanket and its types 

A blanket is a bed cover whose primary function is to provide warmth. Typically made from various materials such as wool, cotton, or microfiber, blankets are designed to protect you from cold weather while you sleep. 

Blankets are generally thicker than bed covers because they prioritize insulation and body comfort. There are various types of blankets you can choose from depending on your needs, from light blankets for summer to thick blankets for winter. Blankets also come in different sizes and designs, allowing you to match them with your bedroom's decor style. 

Advantages of using blankets 

The main advantage of a blanket is its ability to provide warmth and comfort at night. Available in various materials and thicknesses, blankets allow you to adjust the level of warmth according to your personal preference. For instance, wool blankets are more suitable for winter, while cotton blankets are ideal for warmer weather. 

Besides being functional, blankets also offer flexibility in styling your bed. The wide range of colors and patterns allows you to match them with the theme of your bedroom, making blankets not just a functional element but also a decorative one. 

Main differences between a bed cover and a blanket

After understanding the detailed definitions of bed covers and blankets, you might already have an idea of their differences. However, we will help you further understand the distinctions. Here is the explanation. 

1. Structure and design of both 

The first difference you need to know lies in their structure and design. Bed covers tend to be more decorative because they are designed with a focus on the bed's appearance. Additionally, bed covers are lighter and thinner than blankets, making them more suitable as complements to bedroom decor. 

On the other hand, blankets are more functional as they are designed to provide warmth. With thicker materials and a heavier structure, blankets are more suitable for use in cold climates or when nighttime temperatures drop. So, if your goal is maximum comfort, a blanket is the right choice. 

2. When to use a bed cover and a blanket? 

The use of a bed cover or blanket depends on the need and situation. Bed covers are more suitable when you want to emphasize the aesthetics of the bedroom, for example, to create a neat and elegant appearance. Bed covers are also more often used in warm climates due to their lighter nature. 

On the other hand, blankets are a more suitable choice if you need extra warmth at night. During the winter or in areas with lower temperatures, blankets become the main choice to maintain comfort while sleeping. A combination of a bed cover and blanket can also provide a balance between aesthetics and function. 

3. Functionality 

When discussing functionality, bed covers and blankets play very different roles in your bedding. Bed covers are more often used for decorative purposes, adding aesthetics and a tidy look to your bedroom. 

With more varied designs, bed covers are a popular choice for those who want to create a more elegant or modern ambiance in the bedroom. Although they serve as an additional protective layer for duvets or quilts, the main focus of a bed cover is to beautify the appearance of the mattress. 

On the contrary, blankets focus more on providing comfort and warmth, especially at night or during cold weather. Blankets are designed to cover your body and maintain a comfortable body temperature. 

Moreover, some blankets are made with thermal technology, allowing you to stay warm at night. So, when choosing between a bed cover and a blanket, you need to consider the functionality that best suits your needs: aesthetics or comfort. 

4. Maintenance 

When discussing maintenance, bed covers are generally easier to manage than blankets. Due to their thinner and lighter materials, bed covers can be washed more frequently without causing significant wear. 

The washing process for bed covers is also quicker and simpler, as they can be washed in a standard home washing machine. In terms of daily maintenance, bed covers are also more practical to change and store. 

Blankets, especially those made of thick or fluffy materials, require more careful maintenance. Some blankets may need to be washed in large-capacity washing machines or even sent to professional laundries to ensure the materials remain intact and undamaged. 

In addition, the drying time for blankets tends to be longer compared to bed covers. Therefore, maintaining blankets can be more time-consuming and effort-intensive, but the result is preserved comfort and warmth. 

5. Size and seasonal use 

Bed covers generally come in standard sizes suitable for various mattress sizes, such as single, queen, and king. Their size is designed to cover the entire mattress and give it a neat and orderly appearance. 

Due to their lightweight nature, bed covers are suitable for year-round use, especially in warm climates or when you want to provide a decorative feel without needing extra warmth. You can use them in the summer as a decorative cover or an additional layer in the winter alongside a blanket. 

On the other hand, blankets come in various sizes and thicknesses that cater to seasonal needs. For the winter, thicker and heavier blankets provide extra protection against the cold, while for the summer, you can opt for thinner and lighter blankets. 

This flexibility makes blankets more adaptable to seasonal changes, allowing you to stay comfortable throughout the year by using the appropriate blanket for the climate. 

6. Price and materials 

Another difference to note between bed covers and blankets is the price and materials used. Bed covers are usually made of lighter materials such as cotton or polyester, which tend to be more affordable. 

These materials focus on decorative aspects and simple functionality, making them a more economical choice for beautifying a bedroom. With attractive designs, bed covers allow you to change the bedroom's ambiance regularly without spending a lot. 

In contrast, blankets are generally made from thicker, high-quality materials such as wool, microfiber, or down. These materials offer excellent heat insulation but also make blankets more expensive, especially for those made from premium materials. 

Though more costly, investing in high-quality blankets provides greater comfort and long-lasting durability, making their use more effective in the long term. 

Choosing the right bed cover and blanket 

Why choose IKEA's bedding products? When you're looking for quality bedding, IKEA is the right choice. We offer a wide variety of bed covers and blankets that are not only functional but also aesthetic. Modern designs and comfortable materials ensure you get quality sleep. 

Additionally, IKEA's bedding products are known for their quality and durability. You will not only get beautiful bedding to look at but also long-lasting. This is a great investment for your comfort and lifestyle. 

We also offer a wide range of options to match various bedroom styles. From minimalist to contemporary, you can find it all at IKEA. Don't hesitate to check out our complete collection. 

Bed cover or blanket: Which is right for you?

Understanding the difference between a bed cover and a blanket is crucial so you can choose the right bedding product. Bed covers offer beauty and protection, while blankets provide comfort and warmth. 

We always support you in creating a comfortable and functional bedroom. We present a variety of products that bring comfort, ensuring you always feel at home. 

We have many solutions for your sleeping problems, from accessories to furniture that beautifies and simplifies. Get our products now and enjoy the benefits!