Where to Buy the Best Coverlets for Your Bed
If you live in New Zealand, you know the struggle of our climate: freezing winters, humid summers, and days where we experience four seasons in one afternoon. The duvet is essential, but it often isn't enough on its own or it's too much.
Often the most underrated item in bedding, a high-quality coverlet is the secret weapon of interior designers. It adds texture, provides versatile warmth, and protects your expensive duvet inner. But with so many options from mass-market polyester quilts to high end specialist linens it’s hard to know where to spend your money.
In this guide, we break down exactly what to look for, where to shop, and why the fabric you choose makes all the difference to your sleep quality.
What Actually Is a Coverlet?
Before you buy, let’s clear up the confusion. We often get asked at our studio: "Is this just a blanket?"
A coverlet is a lightweight, non-reversible bedspread that is usually either quilted or woven. unlike a duvet, it does not require an insert.
The "Why" Checklist:
- Temperature Control: In an NZ summer, a duvet can be too hot. A cotton or linen coverlet with a top sheet is often the perfect weight. In winter, it acts as an extra thermal layer on top of your duvet.
- Aesthetics: It covers the "messy" parts of the bed and adds that textured, layered look you see in boutique hotels.
- Protection: If you have pets (or kids!) who jump on the bed, a coverlet is much easier to wash than a bulky duvet cover.
You might find our detailed breakdown in the 'What is a Coverlet' article interesting.
The Buying Criteria: How to Spot Quality
Not all coverlets are created equal. If you are comparing options online, check these three specs immediately.
Natural vs. Synthetic
- The Trap: Many "affordable" coverlets found in big box stores are 100% Polyester or Microfibre. While cheap, these trap heat and sweat, causing you to wake up clammy. They also tend to "pill" (get bobbles) after a few washes.
- The Solution: Look for 100% Cotton (especially Cotton Velvet) or Pure Linen. These are breathable, natural fibres that regulate body temperature.
GSM (Weight)
GSM stands for Grams per Square Metre.
- Low GSM (under 200): Very thin, likely purely decorative.
- High GSM (300+): Luxurious, weighted feel, provides actual warmth.
Expert Note: Our George Street Linen Venus Velvet collection, for example, is designed with a higher GSM to ensure it drapes beautifully and stays in place.
Certification
Always look for OEKO-TEX® Standard 100. This guarantees the fabric is free from harmful chemicals crucial since this layer often touches your skin or your children's skin.
Where to Buy Coverlets in NZ: Top Stores & Collections
When shopping in New Zealand, you generally have three categories of stores. Here is how they stack up.
The Big Box Retailers
Pros: Accessible, frequent sales, low entry price ($50 - $120).
Cons: Predominantly synthetic fills and fabrics. Designs are mass-produced, meaning thousands of Kiwi homes have the exact same look. Stitching often unravels after a season of heavy use.
Verdict: Okay for a spare room or a student flat, but not for your "forever" bed.
The "Fast Fashion" Homeware Stores
Pros: Very trend focused colours.
Cons: Quality varies wildly. You might find cotton, but the weave is often loose. Sizing can be inconsistent for NZ beds (often imported with US or EU sizing).
Specialist Linen Designers (The Investment Choice)
Pros: Designed specifically for NZ mattress sizes. 100% Natural fibres (Linen, Cotton, Bamboo). High GSM for longevity.
Cons: Higher initial price point ($200+), but lower "cost per wear" over 5 years.
Top Collections from George Street Linen
We design our coverlets to solve specific sleep problems. Here are our top picks:
1. The Best for Winter Luxury:
Why we love it: Nothing screams luxury like cotton velvet. It captures light beautifully, adding depth to your room. It’s heavy, warm, and tactile.
Best for: Master bedrooms, cold villas, and lovers of "Glitz" style.
Colours: Deep jewel tones (Navy, Emerald) and soft neutrals.
2. The Best for Summer & Texture:
Why we love it: Linen is thermoregulating cool in summer, warm in winter. The quilted texture means no ironing is required (wrinkles blend right in!).
Best for: Coastal homes, baches, and hot sleepers.
3. The Best for Families:
Why we love it: Bamboo is naturally antibacterial and incredibly soft. It’s durable enough to handle washing if the dog sleeps on the bed.
Sizing Guide: Getting the "Drape" Right
One of the biggest mistakes we see is buying a coverlet that is too small. A coverlet should drape over the sides of the bed to cover the mattress and the frame.
- If you have a Queen Bed: Buy a King/Super King Coverlet if you want it to almost touch the floor. Buy a Queen Coverlet if you want to tuck it in for a tidy, modern look.
- If you have a Super King Bed: Ensure the coverlet width is at least 260cm - 280cm. Many standard "King" coverlets sold in NZ are too narrow for our Super King mattresses.
Styling Your Bed: The "Sandwich" Method
How do you get that fluffy, inviting cloud-like look?
- Base: Fitted Sheet + Flat Sheet.
- Middle: Your Coverlet (This can be used as the blanket in summer).
- Top: Your Duvet, folded in thirds or halves at the foot of the bed.
Pro Tip: Mixing textures elevates the room. If you have smooth cotton sheets, choose a velvet or linen coverlet to add contrast.
Ready to upgrade your sleep sanctuary?
Don't settle for synthetic fabrics that don't last. Explore the collection that New Zealand interior designers trust.
Shop George Street Linen Coverlets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wash a velvet coverlet?
Yes! Our cotton velvet is machine washable. We recommend a cold, gentle cycle and washing it inside out to protect the pile. Avoid high heat in the dryer.
Do coverlets come with pillowcases?
Most of our collections have matching "Euro Shams" or standard pillowcases available separately, allowing you to mix and match colours.
Is a coverlet warm enough for an NZ winter?
On its own? Likely not for the coldest nights. But layered over a duvet, it traps a significant amount of extra air, acting as insulation. It is the perfect "topper" for warmth.
What is the return policy if the colour doesn't match my room?
We know buying online can be tricky. We offer easy returns on full-priced items within 14 days, provided they are unwashed and in original packaging.