'To Cover or To Coverlet?'

The cold October spells, followed by pangs of warm weather, have me feeling a bit like Goldilocks. The fleece throw that I like to curl up in at night has me getting either ‘too hot’ or ‘to cold.’

I need something ‘just right.’

The dilemma brings me to the following three-part question: To cover? To cover less? Or to coverlet?

But before I go any further – what’s a coverlet, anyways?

The word originates from the French word 'couvrir,' which means 'to cover.' A coverlet is a lightweight bedspread that may be woven or quilted. Traditionally, the coverlet served as a decorative layer to cover thicker layers of bedding underneath.


I learned that people liked to use the coverlet as a throw blanket, as an under layer for baby changing stations, or even as a blanket for picnics. On slightly warmer days, the coverlet might be placed on top of a bed covered only in sheets for just a hint of warmth.

Its protective nature makes the coverlet a good choice for those with children and animals. A king size coverlet with juice stains or coated in animal hairs is easier to treat than a ruined, expensive feather down duvet.

But above all, the coverlet is designed to keep you cozy and comfortable.


This scallop-edged, three-piece quilted coverlet set comes with a coverlet and two-piece sham. In pastel colors like gold, turquoise, light green, pink and purple, the coverlet softens even the harshest of decors. Machine washable, the coverlet does not require a trip to the dry cleaner.

So let’s think about this. To cover? To cover less? Or to coverlet?

Too hot? The coverlet is easy to remove, fold and store. Too cold? Simply layer the coverlet on top of a heavier bedspread to keep the heat in. To coverlet? I think so.

-S. Gonzalez

*Photos courtesy of finelinenandbath.com and decorinnovation.com