10 Best Quilts That Keep You Warm and Comfy

Though quilts are undoubtedly useful for helping ease a chill, they’re also an underappreciated decorative accessory. There’s something about this kind of bedding that invites you to wrap yourself in it with a warm cup of tea and a good book.

Quilts are also often cherished heirlooms that are handed down over the years. If you’re lucky, you will have a quilter in your life. I own quilts handed down from aunts and grandmothers, and I bet some of you readers do as well. My husband’s extremely talented cousin quilts gorgeous, colorful creations for her loved ones, and her high-quality quilts are beautiful (and useful) works of art.

If quilts don't play a role in your family tree, it’s okay—most don’t. Finding the right quilt will really depend on your style, your budget, or your family. I’ve rounded up some shopping suggestions to help you find the perfect one for yourself or others. Note: These make fantastic gifts!

Our picks for the best quilts

What to consider

Is it a quilt or a coverlet?

Quilts have been around for a very long time and they’ve evolved over the centuries. This type of bedding is traditionally made from two layers of fabric with insulation in between and tends to be thinner than comforters. So if you’re looking for warmth, you might want a colorful comforter instead. (You can find suggestions for some of the best comforters here.)

Don’t confuse quilts with a coverlet, which is similar to a quilt but only has one layer. These are similar to a blanket for decorative bedding or simply an extra layer.

Do you prefer decorative or plain?

Quilts are known for their decorative patterns, but you can also buy simple or plain quilts in one color or with discreet stitching. You can find traditional patterns in quilts, such as timeless quilting stitching patterns like the “Lover’s Knot” and “Sunburst,” along with more modern takes. Consider your personal style and whether you prefer a decorative pattern, or something simpler.

How much do you want to spend?

The good news is you can find quilts at practically every price point and if you don’t mind buying a second-hand one, scouring garage and yard sales is a good place to save. Otherwise, you can find beautiful items on eBay or Etsy and a few options from major retailers, but take note that some cheaper quilts may not be as durable over time as high-quality ones. The best places to buy bedding will often sell quilts too, along with blankets.

How we selected the best quilts

As someone who was lucky to grow up with several quilters in the family, it was important that the options that made this list were high-quality. While it’s impossible for a mass-produced quilt to compare to a hand-made one, the upside is that mass-produced quilts are a bit more accessible and easier to care for. To find the quilts that gave the decorative appeal but also could withstand daily use, I looked at a few factors to guide my recommendations: The overall stitching (especially if it contributed to the pattern/design), the material (cotton gave more of a classic quilt feel, though I also considered poly/synthetics as they were extremely durable), and the overall style (as some products labeled quilts look more like duvets or comforters). In addition, I wrapped myself up in a few, asked colleagues and friends to weigh in on what they like, researched what makes a high-quality quilt, plus took a deep dive into customer reviews. I compared price points and manufacturing processes for the most durable and decorative quilts.

Best place to buy quilts

Estate sales, yard and garage sales are the best places to buy authentic vintage quilts. (In addition, specialty artisan fairs, Etsy, and eBay are also great options.) However, if you’re looking for a good quilt from a major retailer, L.L. Bean, Quince, and Anthropologie were my favorite choices for their overall style, stitching, and quality.

How to store quilts

Wrap quilts, especially fragile heirlooms, away from damp or humid areas in the home, like attics, basements, or garages. It is recommended that you wrap your quilts in clean cotton sheets or pillowcases. Some people, myself included, also keep quilts in a cedar chest, which are water, fire, and decay resistant, and repel insects. Fold the quilt carefully so that you don’t disturb the folds or pleats, if, say, it is made from blocks. Always store with the backside facing out if your quilt only has a decorative front.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

How can you tell a good quality quilt?

Most high-quality quilts have a few things in common: durability, the quality of the fabric, and how it is pieced together—by hand or machine. Most quilting experts like traditional cotton best, and if you're looking for an heirloom or antique quilt, this is likely the fabric you will find. Quilts need to be stitched evenly, and the quilting itself should be evenly distributed, with precise sewing and pressing of the materials.

How much should you pay for a quilt?

It depends on the quilt and your budget. You may be able to find a bargain for under $50, but likely you will pay upwards of $100 or more. Decorative quilts (art versus bedding) could run thousands and thousands of dollars.

What are the three main types of quilts?

Although there are other kinds of quilts, especially in the current mass-market, there are three traditional types of quilts: Patchwork (made from different blocks of fabric), applique quilts, and embroidered quilts.

How long should a quilt last?

A quality quilt could last for years, decades, or even generations, depending on how well you care for it.

What type of quilt is best for year-round use?

I own two beautiful quilts and I swap them every two seasons. There is a sunny yellow and white one for warmer months and a deep red and blue one for the colder ones. However, if you want to purchase just one, you should look for a lighter weight cotton quilt. You can use it on its own (in spring and summer) and with a comforter or other blankets (in fall and winter).