A duvet cover is a super-sized pillowcase designed to protect a duvet insert (the cushy blanket inside). A duvet cover slips over the insert and stays fastened with buttons, strings, or zippers. The best part: a duvet cover keeps the insert cleaner for a longer period, eliminating the need to wash a hefty comforter every time you launder your bed sheets (or spend double dropping it off at the dry cleaner). But slipping a cover over your duvet can be a tedious chore. Luckily, we have the tips you need to put on a duvet cover with ease.

To achieve the right look and fit, ensure the size of your duvet cover aligns with the size of your mattress and duvet insert. If you skip this step, you might end up with sides of your duvet cover drooping if the insert is too small or vice versa, with layers bunched up inside if the insert is too big.

Duvet covers also come in a wide range of materials, including polyester, cotton, linen, silk, and flannel. To pick the right material, first, brainstorm your sleeping preferences. For example, if you're a hot sleeper, pick a material that will keep you cool at night, like cotton. In this case, you can search for brands that specifically design duvets based on temperature regulation. Or if you suffer from allergies or have sensitive skin, scout duvet cover materials that won't irritate you.

In addition, some duvets require more maintenance than others. For example, linen wrinkles faster than polyester. But polyester or synthetic fibers tend to trap heat (not ideal for hot sleepers). 

Usually, cotton sheets are a foolproof option because they get more breathable and softer with each wash. Plus, cotton sheets remain safe for sensitive skin and come in wrinkle-resistant treated iterations. However, cotton sheets may be more expensive, especially with a high thread count.

The easiest way to put on a duvet cover is by using a rolling method. Also called the "sushi roll" or "burrito method", this trick is one of the fastest and easiest ways to put on a duvet cover.

Start by laying your duvet insert flat on your bed. Next, turn your duvet cover inside-out and lay that directly on top of your insert. Search for the duvet end with the opening and make sure the opening is at the foot of the bed.

Line up each corner of your duvet cover with the insert so they sit right on top of each other.

Do you see any loops or strings on your duvet cover? Tie the strings into each corner loop of your duvet. Some inserts and covers have up to eight ties (four corners and four middle ties), while most only have four corners. Make sure your ties are tight. This ensures your duvet insert stays in place as you sleep.

Pick up the closed end at the head of the bed, and start rolling both your cover and insert together until you see a sushi roll forming. Keep rolling until you cover all of your material. At this point, the only part you should see is the open end of your duvet cover.

Now fold one side (the open end of your duvet cover) over the entire roll you just formed. Keep folding until you've folded over the entire duvet insert.

Start unrolling until your duvet insert and cover lay flat once again. Ensure each of your four corners line up.

Go back to the open end of your duvet insert. Take both hands, grab the cover and insert together, and give the pair a shake (or a few). If you see any spots not lining up, use your hands to position those sections manually. 

Depending on your cover features, either zip, tie, or button the end of your duvet cover to seal it into place. Give it another shake and lay your duvet cover/insert combo flat on the bed. You're finished! Once you practice changing duvet covers, the process should become easier.

Duvet covers pack convenience, design, and control—features that traditional comforters can't provide.

For example, when design inspiration strikes, you can swap your duvet cover for a whole new look within minutes. Even better, you can control the material. For cold winters, use a flannel duvet and when spring hits, pick linen instead.

Washing a duvet cover with your laundry is also much more manageable than cleaning a full comforter at home or at the dry cleaner.

Duvet covers also give you more customization than traditional comforters. Plus, duvet covers take up the same space as a fitted sheet (versus a comforter that might need an entire closet section or bin to store). Still, putting on a duvet cover requires extra steps versus just laying a comforter flat on your bed. And because of this extra attention, it might not be the best choice for everyone. In those instances, comforters are always a reliable staple.