Last reviewed: 1 August 2026 by the Ozbuyz Store Editorial Team.
Quick answer: Choose a quilt by the bedroom temperature, sleeper preference, fill material, warmth rating, weight and care requirements. GSM measures fill weight per square metre, not warmth by itself. It is most useful when comparing the same type and grade of filling.
Terms such as quilt, doona and duvet are commonly used for the same removable filled bedding item in Australia. Product dimensions, warmth labels and fill specifications can vary, so compare the actual packaging or listing rather than relying only on “summer” or “winter”.
Understand the warmth information
| Measure | What it tells you | Limitation |
|---|---|---|
| GSM | Grams of fill per square metre | Different fill materials and qualities do not provide the same warmth at the same GSM |
| TOG | Thermal insulation rating used on some products | Not every Australian product provides it, and room temperature still matters |
| Season label | Brand’s broad intended use such as cool, warm or extra warm | Not standardised between manufacturers |
| Fill power | Loft of feather-and-down fill | Applies to down products and should be read with fill composition and weight |
Avoid universal GSM bands for every fill. A lightweight high-loft down quilt can be warmer than a heavier lower-performing fill. Compare GSM only among genuinely similar products.
Match the room and sleeper
- Approximate overnight bedroom temperature
- Whether heating is used and for how long
- Whether the sleeper prefers a light or weighted feel
- Whether two sleepers have different warmth preferences
- Humidity and perspiration
- Ability to wash, dry or professionally clean the quilt
Dual-warmth or two-quilt arrangements can help couples with different preferences. Persistent overheating, night sweats or sleep problems may warrant health advice rather than a bedding-only solution.
Fill types
Feather and down
Down provides loft and warmth at relatively low weight, while feathers add structure and weight. Check the down-to-feather ratio, fill power, baffle construction, care requirements and responsible-sourcing certification where this matters.
Wool
Wool quilts are generally heavier and flatter than high-down products. Compare wool weight, construction, machine-wash or dry-clean instructions and whether the product suits the sleeper’s preferred feel.
Polyester and microfibre
These are commonly affordable and many are machine washable. Check fill quality, clumping resistance, breathability, drying time and the washing-machine capacity required.
Cotton, silk, bamboo and blends
Properties depend on the exact fibre proportion, fill weight and construction. “Bamboo” may refer to a blended or regenerated-cellulose material rather than an entirely bamboo fill, so read the composition label.
Allergy-related claims
Words such as hypoallergenic or anti-allergy do not guarantee that a product will prevent symptoms. Dust mites and allergens can occur in many materials. Consider washability, complete drying, covers and professional health advice for individual allergies.
Choose the exact size
Quilt dimensions do not equal mattress dimensions and vary between suppliers. Measure the bed and desired side drop, then compare the quilt and cover dimensions in centimetres. If sizing up, confirm that a matching cover is available and that the extra width will not drag on the floor.
Care and ownership
- Follow the care label exactly.
- Check whether the home washing machine and dryer can safely handle the wet weight.
- Dry the fill completely to prevent odour, clumping or damage.
- Use a correctly sized cover and air the quilt as directed.
- Store clean and fully dry in a breathable or manufacturer-recommended container.
- Do not compress feather, down or wool for longer than recommended.
Compare current products in quilts and duvets and complementary duvet covers.
Frequently asked questions
What does GSM mean on a quilt?
It means grams of filling per square metre. Within the same fill type and grade, a higher GSM generally means more fill and often more warmth, but it cannot fairly compare all materials.
What GSM is best for winter?
There is no universal answer across all fills and bedrooms. Use the manufacturer’s warmth guidance, fill type and actual bedroom conditions.
Is wool warmer than down?
The answer depends on the individual products. Down can provide high warmth at low weight, while wool usually feels heavier. Compare tested warmth or TOG where available.
Should I buy a larger quilt than the mattress size?
It can provide more side coverage, but check exact dimensions, cover availability, bed height and whether the quilt will drag.
Can every quilt be machine washed?
No. Follow the care label and check the capacity needed for the wet quilt. Some products require professional cleaning.
Research and review method
This guide was reviewed against CHOICE’s fact-checked doona and quilt buying guidance. It deliberately avoids treating GSM as a universal warmth scale.