Skip to content
The winter season is varied in India, with different climatic conditions in every part of the country. It can get chilly in certain regions while remaining perfectly pleasant. But one thing remains the same among all these climate zones - you definitely need a cosy blanket to keep the chill away. You may be thinking of upgrading your blankets for winter and confused between buying a new dohar or a comforter for the winter.
To make things easier for your selection, we’ve curated a guide to understanding dohars and bed comforters.
What is a Dohar?
A dohar is a quintessentially Indian piece of bed linen. It is made out of cotton that encases beaten cotton layers in a snug filling. The filling is kept in place with unique stitching so that it does not clump or become misshapen with use. Dohars are traditionally hand-stitched for new couples by older women in the family, while grandmothers make smaller ones for babies and children. The earliest dohars in India were made with muslin as the encasing cover, for royal and wealthy families. Through the ages, muslin was replaced by cotton. Dohars normally feature typical ethnic and criss-cross patterns, though modern ones may also feature floral and geometric motifs.
Though a dohar is usually used in the winter, it finds applications throughout the year. At SPACES, we offer delightful 100% Cotton dohar collections like the Earthy Tones and Cambric for adults, and a wide kids’ range in single sizes.
What is a Comforter?
A bed comforter is like the dohar except for one key aspect: the filling. Where a dohar boasts an exclusively cotton filling, a comforter may be padded thickly with wool, silk-based fibres, synthetic padding or even downy feathers. Where multiple layers of beaten cotton ensure warmth in a dohar, the type of filling inside the comforter ensures how much warmth it provides. Another point of difference is that the comforter is often thicker and fluffier than a dohar
A comforter set has more insulating properties than a dohar, and some people may not be comfortable using them in warm weather. Usually, comforters are best for the winter season – they trap body heat inside and keep you cosy and warm even on the coldest night. If you must use a comforter during warmer seasons, you can do so with the air-conditioning on.
SPACES offers the widest range of comforter sets. Choose from our Bamboo Charcoal, Organic Cotton, Geostance, and Anti-Viral collections, among others.
Comforters vs. Dohars: Which Is Right for You?
When it comes to choosing the perfect winter bedding sets, understanding the differences between comforters and dohars is crucial.
-
Warmth and Insulation:
- Comforters are typically thicker and provide substantial warmth, making them ideal for colder climates. They are filled with materials such as down, polyester, or wool, offering excellent insulation. If you live in an area with severe winter weather, a comforter is likely the better choice for keeping you warm.
- Dohars, on the other hand, are lighter and made from a layer of cotton or muslin, often quilted or stitched together. They suit transitional weather and can be layered for extra warmth without feeling too heavy. If you prefer a lighter option that still provides some warmth, a dohar might be more appealing.
-
Versatility:
- Comforters can serve as the main winter bedding essential but may be too warm for milder seasons. They often require more maintenance and care due to their bulk and filling.
- Dohars are versatile, as they can be used year-round. In winter, they can be layered under a comforter or used alone in spring or autumn. Their lightweight nature makes them easy to store and manage.
-
Aesthetic Appeal:
- Comforters often come in various styles and patterns, adding a decorative touch to your bedroom. They can make a statement and are typically available in both solid colours and vibrant prints.
- Dohars, especially those with unique Indian prints, add a cultural flair to your decor and can be a beautiful statement piece. They’re often used as throws or blankets on sofas and beds, enhancing the overall look of your space.
Ultimately, your choice between a comforter and a dohar should depend on your climate, personal warmth preference, and how you intend to use the bedding. A winter comforter might be more suitable for harsh winters, while a dohar offers flexibility and lightweight comfort.
What to Look for: Buying the Perfect Comforter or Dohar
When shopping for blankets for winter, knowing what features to look for can significantly enhance your comfort and satisfaction. Here are the essential factors to consider:
-
Material:
- For comforters, look for high-quality materials such as 100% cotton. Down is excellent for warmth but may trigger allergies, so down-alternative is a great option if you are sensitive.
- For dohars, cotton is the most common and preferred fabric due to its breathability, softness, and comfort. Look for 100% cotton or a cotton blend that feels soft against the skin.
-
Fill Power and Weight:
- Fill power refers to the fluffiness and insulating ability of the down or synthetic fill-in comforters. Higher fill power means more warmth with less weight, which is ideal for comfort.
- Weight matters, too; consider how heavy you want your bedding to be. Comforters can be heavy or lightweight, depending on your preference. Dohars, being lighter, are ideal for layering or casual use.
-
Size:
Ensure you choose the right size to fit your bed perfectly. Common sizes include twin, full, queen, and king. Check the dimensions of your mattress and look for a comforter or dohar that provides enough overhang for a polished look.
-
Care Instructions:
Look for warm bedding that is easy to clean. Winter comforters often need dry cleaning or special care, while many dohars are machine washable. Opt for options that fit your lifestyle and maintenance preferences.
-
Design and Aesthetics:
Your bedding should complement your room’s decor. Choose colours and patterns that resonate with your style—whether you prefer classic, modern, or bohemian themes.
-
Price:
Set a budget before shopping. Comforters and dohars come in a range of prices, so look for options that offer the best quality for your budget. Don’t compromise on quality for a lower price; invest in bedding that will last.
Other Comforting Companions for this Winter and Every Winter
-
Soft Cotton Dohars:
Ideal for transitional weather, cotton dohars are lightweight and breathable. They can be layered over a heavier comforter or used alone on milder nights. Their versatility makes them perfect for any season, ensuring you have the right level of comfort at all times.
-
Fluffy Pillows:
Complement your bedding with fluffy pillows for added comfort. Pillows filled with down or memory foam can provide the perfect support for restful sleep, enhancing your overall warm bedding experience.
-
Soft and Stylish Bedsheets:
Invest in high-quality bedsheets that feel great against your skin. Opt for flannel or brushed cotton sheets for added warmth during the winter months. Choose colours and patterns that reflect the festive season or your personal style. SPACES offers a variety of bedsheets that combine comfort with aesthetic appeal, ensuring your bed looks inviting and cosy.
-
Cosy Quilts:
Winter quilts can add an extra layer of warmth and style. Choose designs that complement your decor while providing additional comfort. These can be particularly useful for layering on especially cold nights.
How To Care for Your Winter Bed Linen?
There are a lot of things that you need to keep in mind when it comes to cleaning, maintaining and storing your comforters and dohars.
-
Cleaning Your Comforters and Dohars
First of all, make sure to wash them regularly, especially if they are made from synthetic materials such as polyester or fleece. Synthetic materials make it easy for bacteria to grow in your comforters and dohars, which can cause rashes, odours and other problems. If you want to keep your comforters and dohars clean and fresh, it’s recommended that you wash them at least every two weeks.
-
Maintaining Your Comforters and Dohars
When it comes to maintenance, you should always keep an eye on the condition of your comforters and dohars. Check for signs of wear, like loose threads or holes. Go over the seams with a fine-toothed comb to ensure that everything is holding up well. You should also keep an eye out for signs of damage, such as tears or stains.
-
Storing Your Comforters and Dohars
Finally, make sure that you store your comforters and dohars away from direct sunlight so that they don’t get damaged. Sunlight can fade fabrics over time, so storing them away from light sources will help to extend their lifespan. It's important to store your comforters and dohars properly so that they last as long as possible. Here are some tips for storing them:
There are a lot of ways you can store your comforters and dohars, but here are some of the most common:
1) In-storage bins: You can use storage bins to store comforters and dohars. It's an easy way to keep them organized and protected. If you have large storage bins, you can make sure your comforters or dohars don't get squashed or crushed.
2) In plastic bags: You can use plastic bags to store your comforters and dohars. Just make sure that you keep them away from heat sources so that they aren't damaged by heat.
And don’t forget to take them out and wash them regularly!
How To Buy Comforter Sets and Dohars From SPACES?
The winter is truly upon us, and it is time to fold away your old blanket and welcome cosy, deep sleep into your life this season. You can do this by browsing through our different bed comforter collections online.
- Start by deciding which size of comforter you want, whether single or double. You can even use this opportunity to buy kids’ comforters for your children.
- Go through all our collections to find out the one that works best for your bedroom. The comforter sets at SPACES are priced between Rs 3,000 and Rs 7,000, but you can also avail of special festive pricing and discounts.
- Check the product details and maintenance. If you find the right bed comforter (we also recommend looking for a matching bedsheet set) then you can add it to your shopping cart.
- Enter your area pin code to check whether the product can be delivered to your address or not.
- Pay for the products online and await delivery within a week. Enjoy your new comforter this winter, and the blissful sleep it brings!
So, create a warm, inviting space that feels cosy and festive all season long. Enjoy the comforts of winter with the right winter bedding that suits your style and needs!