Quilt Buying Guide - Choosing The Perfect Quilt | Adairs (2024)

There are a few things to consider when it comes to choosing the best quilt.

We’ve done the work for you and served up a range based on the way you like to sleep. Explore our range of quilts by their warmth rating and composition to invest in a better night’s sleep, whether you’re a hot sleeper, a cold sleeper or prefer a quilt that is light or lofty.

If picking the perfect quilt still feels a bit complicated – or you feel overwhelmed by choice – keep reading as we break down everything you need to know about bedding.

What are Loft and GSM?

What size quilt should you buy?

Insider Tip:

Bed sizes are not standard, internationally. If you have an Australian mattress, we recommend buying your bedding and bedlinen from Aussie stores like Adairs, to make sure the dimensions match your bed.

Allergen-free options

Animal-derived fibres like feather and wool have been known to cause reactions in those with sensitivities. You might be having a reaction to your bedding if you regularly wake up to a stuffy nose, sneezing, a cough, or even itchy eyes. You may also experience poor sleep quality if your quilt filling isn’t letting you breathe easily. If this sounds like you or someone in your family, try out an allergen-free filling like cotton, bamboo, silk, or synthetic material. One thing to keep in mind, however, is that dust mites cause reactions just as often as animal fibres. A good, dust-mite-resistant mattress topper and frequent laundry is a must if swapping your filling hasn’t provided any relief.

Understanding filling

We know that quilts keep you warm – but how? When you slide into bed, the warmth from your body begins to warm the filling; as the fibres expand, they trap 1,000s of tiny pockets of air. These pockets of insulation warm up from your body heat, creating a soft layer of comfort. As such, quilts are a far more effective insulator than blankets, which simply provide a barrier between your body and the cold air.

The right filling is all about how you personally like to sleep; do you want something breathable or extra warm? A heavy quilt or a light quilt? Is moisture wicking important for you? We explore the benefits of each filling below.

Allergy sufferers rejoice, bamboo quilt is here to help you sleep well. Naturally hypoallergenic and resistant to dust mites, bamboo won’t cause a reaction in people with sensitivities – meaning you’ll wake up feeling fresh, not stuffy. Naturally anti-bacterial, bamboo quilt also won’t allow bacteria, fungus, mould, or other nasties to grow, for a better night’s sleep. Breathable and moisture-wicking, bamboo quilt will feel good in all seasons. Plus, bamboo is an eco-friendly choice.

The classic quilt filling, feather and down quilt provides plenty of warmth. Down quilt provides the most insulation, while the feather provides weight. The most opulent quilts have a higher percentage of down to feather and are some of the warmest on the market. A quilt with a high percentage of down to feather will be warm while still being lightweight. Feather and down quilts are durable and lofty, making them a great all-rounder.

If you’ve got lots of beds to cover, a synthetic quilt is a great choice. Modern polyester quilt is excellent at mimicking the high loft of down at a much more affordable price point. With an easy-care construction, you’re able to wash a synthetic-filled quilt more often than other kinds. This regular washing (bye, dust mites!) and allergen-free material makes synthetic an excellent choice for allergy sufferers.

Another classic, wool quilt is a favourite amongst families. Incredibly durable with soil-resistant properties, wool is a great choice for kids. Just like it does when it’s on the sheep, wool provides temperature regulation and is super breathable - meaning it’s ideal for hot sleepers or year-round use. The moisture wicking properties make it the right choice if you’re trying to avoid those clammy, sweaty nights. Plus, wool is a renewable resource so you can feel good about your filling.

Best Quilt for Summer

For the warmer months, cotton and bamboo quilts are ideal for a comfortable night’s sleep. They are lightweight and breathable, ensuring comfort without overheating, perfect for relief from the Australian summer climate.

Best Quilt for Winter

During winter, warmth becomes paramount. Down, wool, or feather quilts are the top choices for winter bedding, as they provide excellent insulation, keeping you snug and cozy through the colder nights.

Choosing the right quilt for the season is crucial for achieving optimal comfort and sleep quality. All-season quilts also offer versatility, with some allowing you to adjust layers. Once you’ve found your perfect quilt, make sure to follow the care instructions on the tag to keep it in good condition for years to come. Some quilts are dry clean only, while others are machine washable. Keep drying time in mind – a quilt can only go back on your bed once it’s completely dry.

If you’re packing away a seasonal quilt, we recommend using a zippered storage bag to keep the unused one safe and giving it a fresh spritz of Aroma Wash before it goes in the cupboard.

Sleep well with Adairs.

We're here to help.

From breathable Bamboo to luxe Feather and Down, there’s an Adairs quilt for everybody and every season.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the difference between ‘loft’ and ‘GSM’, head in-store and let our expert team provide tailored advice.

Get the know-how with Adairs Insider: