Remember the days of blankets? Or rather the nights of blankets, when winter meant piling layers and layers of wool on the bed in order to keep out the winter chill. Well, if progress means anything, then the widespread acceptance and popularity of the duvet must be part of it. Blankets are heavy and awkward. By comparison duvets are light and easy to make up. Just throw one on the bed and the job is done. Making up the bed couldn't be made any easier!

But now it comes to choosing which duvet, and the choice is far from narrow. The main choice is between natural filling and synthetic. many people think that natural fillings are warmer and opt for something like down. A down duvet is certainly warm. Down is also very light, holds in heat but allows moisture to escape, and is very soft.

The thing is, you might be allergic to goose or duck feathers and so have to bear that in mind. But you may still be able to own a down comforter if the down has been purified. The last thing you want is to be warm but sneezing!

Remember that a high fill count means a softer and warmer duvet. Goose feathers are softer than duck feathers. But make sure the thread count on the shell is high to prevent feathers from protruding.

If the idea of a natural filling doesn't appeal to you, you can try a synthetic down duvet. These are hypoallergenic and simulate the feel and softness of real down. Synthetic down is laundering unlike real down it is low maintenance and easy to wash. Another alternative is a cotton duvet, which is a 100% cotton fill and shell. Cotton does not provide a light feeling. If you like something heavy then this could be for you. A cotton duvet breathes so they are good for warm weather.

Whichever duvet you choose, you can remember that you'll never have to struggle in making up the bed.