A bedspread is far more than just a finishing touch to your bedding - it's a transformative piece that can completely change the look and feel of your bedroom.
With one simple layer, you can elevate your space from everyday to effortlessly stylish, adding a sense of calm, cohesion and comfort to your room.
Whether you're someone who loves the relaxed, layered charm of a laid-back interior, or you prefer the neat, tailored appeal of a hotel-style finish, the right bedspread can help you achieve your ideal aesthetic with ease.
Bedspreads are an incredibly versatile bedding accessory, suitable for all seasons and styles. They can be used to introduce subtle texture, a pop of colour, or a sense of softness to your bed without overpowering the rest of your decor.
And when it comes to popular choices, waffle cotton throws, satin bedspreads and quilted styles stand out for their timeless design and practical comfort.
What is a Bedspread?
A bedspread is a versatile and decorative bedding layer that is typically designed to cover the entire surface of your bed, often extending all the way down to the floor.
Unlike a duvet or comforter, which are primarily intended for warmth and insulation, a bedspread serves a slightly different purpose. Its main function is to enhance the overall appearance of your bed and bedroom, providing a clean, polished, and thoughtfully styled look.
Bedspreads are generally lightweight, making them ideal for use during the warmer months when you want a breathable layer that still offers some coverage without trapping too much heat.
During the colder seasons, they can also be layered on top of your duvet or blankets to add an extra element of cosiness, as well as a touch of visual interest and texture.
Often chosen for their ability to tie together the colour scheme or design theme of a rooms decor, bedspreads come in a wide variety of fabrics, patterns, and weaves - from crisp cotton waffles to plush quilted textures.
Whether you're aiming for a minimalist, hotel-inspired feel or a more lived-in, layered aesthetic, finding the perfect bedspread will elevate your space with style and practicality.
Timeless Cotton Waffle Bedspreads
One of the most popular designs right now is the waffle throw bedspread, typically made from 100% cotton. The waffle weave - named for its small, square pattern - adds beautiful texture and a relaxed, modern feel to your space.
Benefits of a waffle cotton bedspread:
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Breathable and lightweight – Perfect for spring and summer use, or for those who sleep warm.
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Soft yet textured - Adds depth and a decorative touch to neutral bedding or minimal interiors.
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Easy to care for - Machine washable and quick-drying thanks to the weave.
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Layering-friendly - Looks great draped over a duvet or used alone for a minimal look.
Waffle bedspreads work particularly well in Scandinavian, coastal or contemporary interiors, but their simplicity makes them adaptable to add character to any space.
Quilted Bedspreads for Cosy Comfort
If you're looking for something with a little more warmth and structure, quilted bedspreads are a classic choice.
These typically feature a stitched or padded design and offer a plush, tactile layer that’s ideal for autumn and winter.
Why people love quilted bedspreads:
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Extra insulation - Adds warmth without the bulk of a duvet.
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Decorative touch - Creates interest even in plain colours.
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Hotel feel - Five-star style even in your bedroom.
Quilted bedspreads are also great for adding a bit of luxury to guest bedrooms or layering with throws and cushions for a rich, layered aesthetic.
What Size Bedspread Do I Need?
When it comes to choosing the correct size bedspread, it’s important to remember that bedspreads are typically designed to be larger than standard duvets or comforters.
This is because they’re intended to cover not only the top of your mattress but also to drape elegantly over the sides and foot of the bed, often reaching close to the floor for a neat, tailored appearance.
To make it fit perfectly, the bedspreads dimensions must provide enough coverage based on your mattress depth and bed height.
A bedspread that’s too small may look underwhelming and won’t create the luxurious layered effect that bedspreads are known for. On the other hand, one that’s too large may pool on the floor or appear bulky.
Here’s a general guide to our UK bedspread sizes:
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Single Bedspread: Approx. 145 x 220 cm – Suitable for a standard single mattress, with enough overhang to cover the sides neatly.
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Double Bedspread: Approx. 175 x 220 cm – Designed to drape evenly across a double bed with a balanced drop on each side.
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King Size Bedspread: Approx. 225 x 250 cm – Offers generous coverage for king-sized mattresses, ideal for creating that tucked-in, hotel look.
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Super King Bedspread: Approx. 250 x 260 cm – Provides full, luxurious coverage for wider beds, perfect for larger rooms or a grand statement.
To ensure the most flattering fit, your bedspread should ideally cover the entire bed and fall just above the floor on all sides. This gives your bed a clean and elegant silhouette without dragging or bunching at the corners.
If for example your double bed sits higher than average - such as with a deep mattress, added topper, or tall frame - you may wish to size up a king size bedspread to allow for the extra height and maintain the desired length of drape.
Similarly, if your bed has a lower frame or you prefer a more minimalist, tucked-in look, a slightly smaller bedspread may be better suited.
Ultimately, the right size will depend not only on the bed itself but also on your personal preference for how much drape and layering you like.
When in doubt, measuring the height of your bed from mattress top to floor can be helpful before deciding.
What Materials Are Best for Bedspreads?
When selecting a bedspread, the material it’s made from is just as important as the design or size, especially if you want a piece that not only looks beautiful but also feels comfortable and performs well with daily use. The fabric affects everything from breathability and softness to how easily it drapes and washes. Here’s a closer look at the most popular materials used for bedspreads and their individual qualities:
100% Cotton
Cotton is by far one of the most popular and widely recommended materials for bedspreads - and for good reason.
Known for its natural breathability, softness and durability, it offers comfort that lasts throughout the seasons.
It keeps you cool in warmer weather, yet still provides a cosy layer in cooler months when used with additional bedding.
Cotton bedspreads are also easy to care for, usually machine washable, and they become softer over time. For those with sensitive skin or allergies, pure cotton is a safe, non-irritating option.
Cotton Blends
Cotton blends-often featuring a mix of polyester - offer a practical balance between natural comfort and enhanced durability.
These blended fabrics tend to be slightly more resistant to creasing and wrinkles compared to pure cotton, making them lower maintenance when it comes to laundering and everyday use.
Microfibre or Polyester
Bedspreads made from microfibre or 100% polyester are often lightweight, budget-friendly and easy to clean, which makes them a popular choice for those seeking practicality over luxury.
These synthetic fibres tend to be smooth and soft to the touch and often dry faster than natural materials, making them convenient for frequent use or quick changes.
However, polyester-based fabrics are less breathable than cotton or linen, which means they may not regulate temperature as effectively - something to consider if you’re a warm sleeper or live in a humid climate.
Linen
Linen bedspreads bring a beautifully natural, slightly rustic texture to any bedroom. Made from the flax plant, linen is highly breathable and moisture-wicking, which makes it a great choice for warm sleepers or summer use.
It also has a unique charm thanks to its slightly crumpled, lived-in look; an excellent choice for relaxed, boho or coastal interiors.
Though linen tends to be more expensive, it’s also incredibly durable and can last for many years with proper care.
It softens beautifully over time and offers an effortlessly stylish, understated aesthetic.
So, Which Material Should You Choose?
For everyday comfort, versatility and breathability, 100% cotton remains the top choice, especially when woven in textured styles like waffle or quilted finishes.
It’s ideal for all seasons, easy to care for, and works well in both modern and traditional interiors.
If ease of maintenance is your priority, a mixed blend or microfibre option may be the perfect match to better suit your lifestyle. And for those who love natural, textured fabrics with a relaxed edge, linen is a beautiful investment that brings timeless style to your space.
Ultimately, the best bedspread material comes down to your personal preferences, climate, and how you use your bedding - whether it’s a daily staple or a finishing touch for occasional use.
What Colours Work Best?
Choosing the right colour for your bedspread depends on your bedroom décor and colour palette, but some universal favourites include:
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Whites & neutrals – Clean, versatile and timeless. Great for a calm, spa-like feel.
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Soft greys or sage green – Bring in a hint of colour while staying subtle and modern.
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Muted pinks or terracotta tones – Warm and earthy for boho or Mediterranean styles.
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Deep navy or charcoal – Add contrast and drama to light bedding or walls.
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Mustard or ochre – Bright, cheerful and a great accent against cool-toned decor.
Waffle and quilted textures in solid tones make a subtle statement without overpowering your room. They’re perfect for layering up with patterned cushions or bold throws if you want a pop of personality.
Don’t be afraid to change your bedspread colour with the seasons: brighter, lighter tones for spring and summer, and richer, moodier shades for autumn and winter can refresh your space with minimal effort and create a focal point in your bedroom décor.
Ultimately, choose colours that reflect your personality and complement your room’s palette for a harmonious, inviting finish.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re drawn to the relaxed texture of a waffle cotton bedspread, the soft padding of a quilted design, or a green bedspread to add a subtle pop of colour.
Something as simple as incorporating a bedspread will come as a simple upgrade that makes all the difference.
It's an easy way to bring comfort, style and warmth into your bedroom - no major redesign required.
Explore textures, play with colour, and find a bedspread size that suits your space. Your bed (and your sleep) deserves it.