What Does GSM Mean When It Comes To Duvets

Not all duvets are made the same. Wool duvet inners, feather duvet inners, cotton inners; there are many different types of duvet, each with unique differences and price points. Sure, a large variety of duvet brands and types means that we are spoilt for choice as a consumer, but it also offers up a bit of a headache. It can be tricky to get your head around the benefits of each different duvet inner and, in effect, to make a smart purchase to fit your sleeping preference. 

Whether you’re on the market for a summer duvet inner or winter duvet inner, one of the main purchasing considerations is GSM. But what does GSM actually mean? How much GSM is good for a duvet? And after all is said and done, what is the warmest duvet inner?  

In this blog, we’re going to cover off everything to do with GSM when it comes to duvet inners. Here are the main points. 

What does GSM mean

How to identify a duvet’s GSM

How GSM affects cost

Average GSM for common duvets

Other considerations when choosing a quality duvet

The range of duvet inners at Briscoes

Let’s unpack things!

What does GSM mean for duvets

GSM, when it comes to duvets, stands for grams per square meter. Seems simple, right? Unfortunately, there’s a bit more to it than just the acronym. GSM measures how many grams per square meter of the duvet inner’s textile weight. As you’d imagine, plenty of variables affect a duvet inner’s GSM.

Top tip: GSM is often confused with thread count. Although these forms of measurement are similar, they’re not the same. 

How to identify a duvet’s GSM

Duvet inners don’t come with a big red sticker disclosing GSM. In saying that, it can be quite simple to identify a duvet inner’s GSM. Here’s what you need to do:

• If you’re shopping in-store 

Firstly, check the duvet inners label. If the GSM is not on that, reach out to the helpful Briscoes staff. They’ll be able to help you out. 

• If you’re shopping online 

Have a look in the duvet inners product description as the GSM will commonly be specified there. Otherwise, reach out to your local Briscoes team via phone or live chat.

How GSM affects cost

In a dream world, you’d buy the most luxurious and expensive duvet inner in the world. But realistically, cost is always going to be a factor when purchasing bedding. In saying that, getting adequate sleep is important. Therefore, buying the best possible duvet inner for your budget makes sense. 

Back to GSM. In a general sense, duvet inners with a high GSM are often more expensive simply given that more material is being used. Of course, this will vary between the different types of duvet. GSM is also not always an indicator of quality. For example, linen often has a lower GSM than cotton by design, but has many excellent properties that make it a desirable choice. 

Reasons for buying a duvet with high GSM

One of the big reasons shoppers may prefer a duvet inner that has higher GSM is durability. High GSM means a thicker, more durable duvet inner in most cases. A thicker duvet inner also lends itself to stifling airflow. This makes for a heavier feel which means some of the warmest duvet inners have a high GSM. Another way to get a warmer night’s sleep is considering sheets with a higher GSM or thread count. Read our guide on purchasing sheets for helpful advice in that space. 

Reasons for buying a duvet cover with low GSM

They say that everything comes at a cost, which is especially true for thick duvet inners. A duvet with high GSM is commonly more expensive. So, if you’re trying to save some money, low GSM may be the way to go. Some people also see duvet inners with a high GSM as too warm for the summer months, especially if you run warm. If you are looking to choose bedding that is comfortable all year round, it can be helpful to consider trans-seasonal layering. Read our how to guide for trans-seasonal layering to get started.

Average GSM for common duvets

It may seem like a duvet inner’s GSM is the best way to determine which product to buy, but this is not always the case. Each duvet inner is made from different materials. Each material will have a different weight and cost involved. As a result, low GSM in one duvet may be right on the money for another. 

Down and feather

The feathers used for duvet inners are most commonly from ducks or geese. Down comes from the same animals but is light and fluffy tufts instead of full feathers. Whether a duck or goose duvet inner, the fill is usually made up of both feathers and down. A down and feather duvet inner may sit around 600 GSM depending on the split.

Wool

Wool duvet inners are another fantastic natural option. Wool does well by working with your own internal body temperature to keep you toasty in the winter and cool in the warmer months. Depending on the percentage of your wool duvet inner, you may be looking at anything from 250 to 600 GSM.

Top tip: The GSM may be even higher if you’re considering a merino duvet inner.

Cotton

Once again, cotton is another excellent natural duvet inner material. Cotton is often seen as a breathable and extra soft material when it comes to duvet inners. In terms of GSM, cotton duvet inners often sit around 200 to 300, depending on the percentage of cotton.

Bamboo

Bamboo duvet inners are great for people with allergies, given that it’s naturally antibacterial and antimicrobial. Bambo duvet inners commonly range from 250 to 500gsm and are also a great eco option. 

Polyester and Microfibre

Unlike the other options we’ve already touched on, polyester and microfibre duvet inners are entirely man-made materials. This can lead to a range of benefits, including affordability and durability. Being synthetic also means that polyester and microfibre can sit anywhere from 150 to 800gsm.

Other considerations when choosing a quality duvet

Although GSM is a helpful tool to decide on your next duvet inner purchase, it’s not the only buying consideration. Researching other duvet inner variables can help you on your journey to a better night’s sleep. 

Warmth scale

Whether it’s the tog rating scale or warmth rating, there are a few different ways to measure how warm a duvet inner is. One person's idea of toasty is another’s roasting, so these kinds of measurements are just a guideline. We’ve laid out our own Briscoes warmth guide to help you choose the right duvet inner. 

Thread count

Similar to GSM, thread count can also impact the quality of a duvet inner. Technically speaking, thread count is the number of threads per one square inch of material. Just like GSM, the higher the thread count can mean a heavier and more expensive duvet inner.

These are just some of the extra considerations when deciding on a new duvet inner. It can be helpful to talk to the helpful team at your local Briscoes. Otherwise, head over to our guide to duvet inners for more tips. 

The range of duvet inners at Briscoes

You best believe we have a huge selection to fit your budget and preferences at Briscoes, from thick duvet inners to summer duvet inners. We stock all of the styles mentioned in this blog across leading bedding brands.

Hilton

Our range of Hilton duvet inners offers a luxurious night's sleep. Being predominantly made from traditional down, the range includes So Soft, Superior and Ultraloft variations. 

Greenfirst

What makes Greenfirst duvet inners unique is their 100% treatment with lemon, lavender and eucalyptus essential oil extracts. This helps to prevent dust mites and bedbugs. The range includes duck down, wool and microfibre options. 

John Cotton

John Cotton is a British brand founded in 1916. This selection of duvet inners offers luxurious and soft options. The range includes goose and duck down.

Hotel @ Home

The selection of Hotel @ Home varies in price and material. Options include duck down, wool blend and even polyester.

Dream Science

Our selection of Dream Science duvet inners is an excellent option if you have allergies. Dream Science duvet inners are primarily made from microfibre and come with a range of GSM.

Galaxy

Galaxy is also a fantastic option for those on the market for duvet inners. Choose from our range, including polypropylene and duck down options. 

Royal Doulton

Royal Doulton is a very popular duvet inner brand in New Zealand, and for good reason. At Briscoes, we over a selection of Royal Doulton duvet inners made from materials ranging from corn fibre right through to duck down. 

Time for a new duvet at home?

GSM is an important factor to consider when choosing a duvet inner. In saying that, it shouldn’t be the only factor that influences your purchase. Read our helpful general duvet inner guide for more advice on choosing your next duvet inner guide. You can browse the range of duvet inners at Briscoes online or head into your local Briscoes store. Once you have purchased your new duvet inner, have a read of our guide that explores the best way to protect it.