Buying guide for Best quilt sets
Are thinking about giving your bedroom a mini makeover? Start with your bedding. A quilt set is simple and affordable, yet it has the power to elevate your entire bedroom style. A quilt sets is a cozy, cost-effective alternative to redecorating a whole room The simple set of a coverlet and pillow shams is versatile enough to match any room’s décor. If you’re looking to make a statement, you’ll find plenty of bold quilt sets for a brand-new look. Choose from basic solids or eye-catching prints. If you want the best of both worlds, there are reversible quilt sets, too.
Besides their curb appeal, quilt sets have the same, if not more, softness as other bedding. Available in a variety of material blends, quilt sets use lightweight, snuggle-friendly materials. Best of all, since they’re usually relatively thin, you can use them all year. Stick to the coverlet in warmer temperatures or add a couple of layers in chilly months.
No matter which quilt set you choose, you can rest easy knowing you did your research to see what’s out there. Here’s our buying guide with a rundown on all the features and styles to consider, plus some of our favorites.
Key considerations
Components
A quilt set typically consists of three matching pieces: one coverlet and two pillow shams, although some sets include throw pillows, too. For the most part, don’t expect to find solid shams with a printed coverlet or vice versa. For some people, the coordinated look can be overwhelming, but for others, it’s a perfectly styled arrangement.
Coverlet: Coverlets are generally long enough to reach the floor, or close to it. They often feature a reinforced hem to prevent unraveling or shedding of threads. Some coverlets are reversible, which means they have a different (but similar) pattern on each side, or a pattern on one side and a solid on the other. Reversible quilts typically stick to the same palette or theme on both sides. As far as construction goes, the coverlets are quilts, with two layers of fabric over a thin layer of batting. The coverlets also feature unique geometric or floral stitching.
Pillow shams: Most quilt sets come with two pillow shams that fit standard pillows, though some fit queen- or king-size pillows. One of the most popular types of sham is the envelope style, which is easy to fit over a pillow. There are also shams that feature button or zip closures.
Throw pillows: Some quilt sets come with decorative throw pillows. These are usually in different shapes and styles, but their design or color palette matches the set. Unless you’re spending top dollar on one of these sets, though, don’t expect throw pillows of exceptional quality.
Expert Tip
When you’re not using your quilt set, store it in a breathable bag or linen closet. If you’re going to store it in a trunk, make sure it’s cedar lined to repel moths and other pests.
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Features
Popular styles
Patterns and prints: Because quilts have a signature cozy-home vibe, it’s no surprise that patterns and prints are popular choices. These sets often feature small floral or geometric patterns, some of which are arranged in patchwork styles to echo the traditional quilt design. They’re ideal for bedrooms that are relatively neutral and could use a dash of pizzazz.
Solids: Solid quilt sets have grown in popularity, especially those with ornate embroidery detail. These quilt sets embrace neutral colors or run the color spectrum with vibrant, statement-making shades. They’re ideal for rooms that are already styled with patterned drapes or rugs and simply need a final touch.
Sizes
Quilt sets are available in all bedding sizes: twin, full/queen, and king. The dimensions of each coverlet tend to stay the same between manufacturers:
Twin: 66 x 90 inches
Full/queen: 90 x 90 inches
King: 108 x 90 inches
The slight differences aren’t an issue unless you’re specifically looking for a coverlet that touches the floor. In that case, you’ll need to consider the height of your bed as well, because taller frames call for larger coverlets.
Materials
Cotton: Cotton quilt sets are very soft, which makes them an ideal choice for anyone with sensitive skin. Quality cotton lasts for years and holds up to frequent washing. But cotton can be susceptible to pilling. If the quilt set hasn’t been pre-shrunk, there’s a good chance that yours will shrink a little bit in the wash.
Cotton/polyester blends: Cotton/polyester blend quilt sets retain their shape and have a bit of flexibility and softness to them. The blend is often less expensive than cotton or microfiber. To some people, the cotton/polyester blend can feel a bit rough. Polyester isn’t very breathable, so if you get very warm or sweat when you sleep, it’s not an ideal choice.
Microfiber: Microfiber, made from polyester and nylon, is incredibly durable and won’t pill like cotton. It’s also breathable, which makes it ideal for temperature regulation in all types of climates. But microfiber can be hit or miss with some people, so it’s not ideal for those who are cotton loyalists. High-quality microfiber sets are also significantly more expensive.
Expert Tip
If your college student wants lightweight bedding, a quilt set is an ideal alternative. It’s light enough for warmer weather and perfect for layering in colder months.
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Accessories
Fleece blanket
Utopia Bedding Fleece Blanket
When it gets colder outside, you’ll need to add layers to your quilt set. We like this fleece blanket from Utopia Bedding, which comes in six neutral colors to match any quilt. Its two-sided pile will keep you warm even in the lowest temperatures. The blanket also features serged hems, which means you don’t need to worry about them unraveling or shedding.
Sheets
Mayfair Linen Sheet Set
Since quilt sets don’t include sheets, you’ll need a quality set to match. We like this set of 100% Egyptian cotton, 500-thread-count sheets from Mayfair Linen, which comes in two dozen colors. Each set includes a fitted sheet, a top sheet, and two pillowcases. Made with fade-resistant dyes, these sheets will last for years.
Quilt set prices
For the most part, you can find quilt sets for $30 to $100. The price range is generally affected by the material quality and softness, as well as the size.
Inexpensive
If you’re looking for a wallet-friendly quilt set, expect to spend $40 or less. These sets usually fit full or queen beds. For the most part, they have attractive patterns and simple embroidery detail, but they might not be as soft as more expensive options.
Mid-range
A quality mid-range quilt set costs between $40 and $80. The material blends in these are generally softer and often include prewashed, preshrunk cotton. There are some king sets in this range, but you’ll mostly find full or queen sets.
Expensive
For top-of-the-line and king-size quilt sets, expect to spend closer to $100 or more. These sets are just made better with quality stitching and batting. There are also some deluxe sets in this price range that include additional pillow shams or decorative throw pillows.
Expert Tip
Pillow shams should be washed when you wash your quilt set. If they don’t fit in the washing machine with the coverlet, wash the shams with the sheets.
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Tips
- Invest in a few quilt sets. If you like to change bedding with the seasons or enjoy refreshing your bedroom every now and then, alternate between two or three quilt sets.
- Upgrade your pillows. If your pillows are collapsed or crushed, it’s time to invest in new ones. Thick, fluffy pillows are best to fill out shams and give your bed a plush, welcoming look.
- Avoid eating or drinking in bed. With the exception of water, avoid consuming anything in bed. While morning coffee in bed hits the spot, it could spill easily and you’ll end up with a permanent stain on your bedding.
- Wash your quilt in gentle detergent. Harsh detergents like those with bleaching agents can be too strong for quilt sets and sometimes cause discoloration. Choose a gentle, color-safe detergent to keep colors nice and bright.
FAQ
Q. How often should I wash my quilt set?
A. In general, bedding should be washed every one to two weeks. Of course, if you’ve been ill or sweat a lot at night, you’ll need to wash it more frequently. If your quilt set isn’t used often since it’s in a guest room, you should wash it monthly or, at the very least, before guests sleep in it.
Q. I’d like to add a stylish touch of detail to my quilt set. What are my options?
A. Choose decorative throw pillows, which come in a variety of shapes. Since shams are generally the same size, the new style pillow will add more dimension to your bedding. Once you decide on a color or pattern that matches your set, you can narrow your selection considerably to make your choice easier. You could also consider decorative pillows with a bold texture like faux fur, ruffles, or appliques.
Q. Do I need to get sheets from the same manufacturer as my quilt set?
A. If you’re married to a specific color palette from your quilt set, then yes. Some colors are so unique that you’ll have a hard time finding matching sheets from another manufacturer. With that said, it’s easy to coordinate solid or printed sheets with any quilt set. White or ivory sheets are as versatile as you can get when it comes to bedding, so they’re good go-to options as well.
