Best Quilts and Coverlets of 2023, Tested by Bedding Experts

The Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab is comprised of experts who evaluate all kinds of bedding like comforters, duvet covers, pillows and sheets. Over the past few years, we’ve tested over 30 blankets, including coverlets and quilts and have amassed over a hundred data points specific to quilts. We assess quilts in the Lab and share them with our panel of consumer testers who give us real-user feedback about their experiences. Here are some of the criteria we consider when choosing the best quilts:

✔️ Comfort: Comfort is key when it comes to bedding, so our analysts review quilts and coverlets in the Lab, taking notes on the feel of each. Our consumer testers try the quilts out for themselves and rate the quilt’s overall comfort, feel and temperature regulation, as well. We also ask our testers to rate the softness of the material.

✔️ Washability: A good quilt should be able to withstand regular washing, so we wash quilt samples according to their care labels, noting any major changes in appearance or shrinkage. Our consumer testers provide us with insight into their own experiences washing and drying the quilts, too, sharing details like if the quilts took longer than expected to dry or if the material pilled afterward.

✔️ Appearance: We want to ensure that the quilts we recommend feel and look great. Our testers rate each quilt’s appearance and provide us with notes about how the quilts look in their space and whether or not they drape nicely over the bed.

When you’re shopping for a quilt, here are a few things to consider:

✔️ Material: Fiber content and fabric construction have a huge impact on the overall feel of a quilt, and not everyone prefers the same feel. Some of our testers love the crisp and cozy texture of natural fibers like cotton and linen, while others appreciate the smooth feel of man-made fibers like rayon and polyester. When it comes to fabric construction, most quilts are made from plain woven fabrics, but some use plush velvet, smooth sateen or knit jersey.

✔️Size: Review the listed dimensions before choosing a size because they may vary between brands. Some quilts are sized generously with extra material that drapes over the edges of the bed, while others are more true-to-size. If you prefer an oversized look or just don’t want to play tug-of-war with your quilt at night, consider sizing up.