Bedspread vs. Quilt — What's the Difference?
By Urooj Arif & Maham Liaqat — Updated on May 18, 2024
A bedspread is a decorative covering for a bed that typically reaches the floor, while a quilt is a thicker, warmer covering made of multiple layers, often featuring a stitched or patchwork design.
Difference Between Bedspread and Quilt
Table of Contents
ADVERTISEMENT
Key Differences
A bedspread is a lightweight, decorative covering that usually extends all the way to the floor, offering an elegant appearance to the bed. It often serves a primarily aesthetic function rather than providing substantial warmth. A quilt, on the other hand, is a heavier and warmer covering, consisting of three layers: a top fabric layer, a middle layer of batting, and a bottom fabric layer. Quilts are typically stitched or quilted together, and they often feature intricate designs or patchwork patterns.
While bedspreads are often used to complete the look of a bedroom by covering the bed entirely and adding a touch of sophistication, quilts are more focused on providing warmth and comfort, making them ideal for colder climates or seasons.
Bedspreads are generally made from lighter materials like cotton or polyester and are less bulky, making them easier to handle and clean. Quilts, in contrast, are made with a thicker batting layer and are more substantial in weight and warmth.
In terms of design, bedspreads are usually single-layered with decorative patterns that can range from simple to elaborate, whereas quilts often showcase complex patterns created by sewing together various pieces of fabric, giving them a more handcrafted and cozy appearance.
Comparison Chart
Purpose
Decorative covering
Warmth and comfort
ADVERTISEMENT
Structure
Single-layer
Three-layer (top, batting, bottom)
Material
Light materials (cotton, polyester)
Thicker materials (includes batting)
Design
Simple to elaborate patterns
Stitched or patchwork designs
Weight
Lightweight
Heavier and bulkier
Compare with Definitions
Bedspread
A lightweight covering used mainly for aesthetic purposes.
She chose a light blue bedspread to match her curtains.
Quilt
A coverlet often featuring patchwork designs.
The quilt on her bed was a colorful patchwork of different fabrics.
Bedspread
A decorative bed cover that reaches the floor.
The floral bedspread added a touch of elegance to the bedroom.
Quilt
A thicker bed cover designed for warmth.
She snuggled under her grandmother’s quilt on the chilly evening.
Bedspread
A single-layer bed cover that often includes matching pillow shams.
The bedspread came with two matching pillowcases.
Quilt
A bed cover made of three layers stitched together.
The handmade quilt kept us warm during the winter nights.
Bedspread
A bed covering used primarily in warmer weather.
During summer, we use a bedspread instead of a duvet.
Quilt
A stitched bed cover with a batting layer for insulation.
The quilt’s intricate stitching patterns were truly a work of art.
Bedspread
A bed cover that can be easily draped over the bed.
The bedspread was easy to arrange neatly every morning.
Quilt
A quilt is a multi-layered textile, traditionally composed of two or more layers of fabric or fiber. Commonly 3 layers are used.
Bedspread
A usually decorative covering for a bed.
Quilt
A warm bed covering made of padding enclosed between layers of fabric and kept in place by lines of stitching, typically applied in a decorative design.
Bedspread
The topmost covering of a bed, often functioning as a blanket.
Quilt
Join together (layers of fabric or padding) with lines of stitching to form a bed covering, a warm garment, or for decorative effect
A blue quilted jacket
Bedspread
A coverlet.
Quilt
Punch (someone)
More than one bloke I've seen Joe quilt good and proper
Bedspread
A bedquilt; a counterpane; a coverlet.
Quilt
A coverlet or blanket made of two layers of fabric with a layer of cotton, wool, feathers, or down in between, all stitched firmly together, usually in a decorative design.
Bedspread
Decorative cover for a bed
Quilt
A thick protective cover similar to or suggestive of a quilt.
Quilt
To make into a quilt by stitching (layers of fabric) together.
Quilt
To construct like a quilt
Quilt a skirt.
Quilt
To pad and stitch ornamentally.
Quilt
To make a quilt.
Quilt
To do quilted work.
Quilt
A bed covering consisting of two layers of fabric stitched together, with insulation between, often having a decorative design.
My grandmother is going to sew a quilt.
Quilt
A roll of material with sound-absorbing properties, used in soundproofing.
Quilt
A quilted skirt worn by women.
Quilt
To construct a quilt.
Quilt
To construct something, such as clothing, using the same technique.
Quilt
To beat or thrash.
Quilt
Anything that is quilted; esp., a quilted bed cover, or a skirt worn by women; any cover or garment made by putting wool, cotton, etc., between two cloths and stitching them together; also, any outer bed cover.
The beds were covered with magnificent quilts.
Quilt
To stitch or sew together at frequent intervals, in order to confine in place the several layers of cloth and wadding of which a garment, comforter, etc., may be made; as, to quilt a coat.
Quilt
To wad, as a garment, with warm soft material.
Quilt
To stitch or sew in lines or patterns.
Quilt
Bedding made of two layers of cloth filled with stuffing and stitched together
Quilt
Stitch or sew together;
Quilt the skirt
Quilt
Create by stitching together
Quilt
A cozy and warm bedding option.
He always preferred sleeping under a quilt for its warmth.
Common Curiosities
What is the primary purpose of a bedspread?
The primary purpose of a bedspread is to serve as a decorative covering for the bed.
Can quilts be used for decoration?
Yes, quilts can be decorative, especially those with intricate patterns and designs.
Are bedspreads suitable for colder climates?
Bedspreads are not ideal for colder climates as they are lighter and provide less warmth compared to quilts.
How is a quilt different in structure from a bedspread?
A quilt is made of three layers (top fabric, batting, bottom fabric) stitched together, whereas a bedspread is typically a single-layer cover.
Which is warmer, a bedspread or a quilt?
A quilt is warmer due to its multiple layers, including a thick batting layer.
Can a bedspread include matching accessories?
Yes, bedspreads often come with matching pillow shams or cushion covers.
Do bedspreads often reach the floor?
Yes, bedspreads are designed to reach the floor, covering the bed completely.
What is the batting layer in a quilt?
The batting layer is the middle layer of a quilt, providing insulation and warmth.
What makes quilts heavier than bedspreads?
The batting layer in quilts adds significant weight and warmth, making them heavier than bedspreads.
Can you use a quilt as a primary bedding layer?
Yes, quilts can be used as a primary bedding layer for warmth and comfort.
Do bedspreads add significant warmth to a bed?
No, bedspreads are mainly decorative and do not add significant warmth compared to quilts.
Are bedspreads easy to clean?
Yes, bedspreads are usually easier to handle and clean due to their lightweight nature.
What materials are commonly used for bedspreads?
Bedspreads are usually made from lighter materials like cotton or polyester.
Is a quilt suitable for summer use?
Quilts are generally too warm for summer use and are better suited for colder weather.
How are the designs on quilts typically created?
Quilt designs are often created through patchwork or stitching various pieces of fabric together.
Share Your Discovery
Previous Comparison
Cooking vs. Cuisine
Next Comparison
Tyranny vs. DictatorshipAuthor Spotlight
Written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
Co-written by
Maham Liaqat
