What Does GSM Mean For Quilts?

The right quilt makes all the difference—soft, breathable, and just the right weight that wraps you up like a warm embrace.

The secret? The GSM of a quilt.

This is a measure of fabric density that determines how thick, warm, or breathable a quilt feels.

Key Takeaways

• GSM refers to the fabric’s weight per square metre. A higher GSM means a thicker, warmer quilt, while a lower GSM keeps things light and breathable—perfect for different seasons.
• The fill material affects warmth, breathability, and overall comfort. Wool and down trap heat for winter, while cotton and bamboo provide airflow to keep you cool in summer.
• Proper care keeps your quilt fresh and long-lasting. Regular airing, using a quilt cover, and washing according to fabric guidelines help maintain its quality over time.

GSM, or grams per square metre, is a measurement of fabric density. Think of it as the ‘heft factor’ of your quilt—higher GSM means thicker, cosier coverage, while lower GSM keeps things breezy.

But before you assume that higher is always better, let’s dive into what GSM really means for quilts or skip ahead to know how to pick the perfect one for every season.

Jump to a section:

• Factors to Consider When Buying a Quilt
• Australia’s Seasons: What Is the Best GSM for Quilts?
• How Should You Care for and Wash Your Quilt?
• How to Calculate GSM?

Factors to Consider When Buying a Quilt

A quilt does more than complete the look of your bed—it directly affects your sleep quality. The right choice keeps you cosy in winter, cool in summer, and comfortable all year round.

But not all quilts are created equal. From GSM to fill materials, every detail impacts warmth, breathability, and feel.

Here’s what to consider before picking your perfect quilt:

GSM

For quilts in Australia, as well as universally, GSM (grams per square metre) refers to the quilt filling’s weight. This determines how heavy and warm a quilt feels.

• Low GSM (150–250 GSM) – Lightweight and breathable, ideal for warm climates or summer months.
• Mid-range GSM (300–400 GSM) – A versatile option that balances warmth and breathability, making it great for year-round use.
• High GSM (450+ GSM) – Thick, plush, and warm—best suited for winter or those who love a heavy, toasty quilt.

Fill Material

What’s inside your quilt affects its warmth, breathability, and feel.

Choosing the right material makes a difference in comfort, insulation, and longevity. But with so many options, which GSM fabric is good for your needs? Let’s break down the most popular choices.

Wool

✅ Moisture-wicking, ideal for hot & cold sleepers

Wool quilts are a fantastic option for those who want warmth without overheating.

Wool fibres naturally regulate temperature by wicking moisture away from the body, making them ideal for both hot and cold sleepers. They’re also hypoallergenic and resistant to dust mites—great for allergy sufferers.

Cotton

✅ Lightweight, breathable & easy to maintain

Cotton quilts offer classic comfort with low maintenance.

Soft, durable, and easy to wash, cotton is a go-to choice for everyday use. While it doesn’t provide the same insulation as wool or down, it excels in breathability—perfect for warm climates or sleepers who prefer a lighter quilt.

Down

✅ Ultra-soft, lightweight yet warm

Down quilts offer luxurious softness and superior insulation.

Filled with fluffy clusters from ducks or geese, down traps heat efficiently while remaining incredibly lightweight. This makes it perfect for cold sleepers who want warmth without the bulk. However, down may not be ideal for humid climates unless treated for moisture control. These quilts also require careful maintenance to retain their loft and longevity.

Bamboo

✅ Breathable, eco-friendly & hypoallergenic

Bamboo quilts are a dream for hot sleepers.

The fibres naturally wick moisture away, helping to keep you cool while resisting dust mites and bacteria. Bamboo is also a sustainable choice, making it an excellent option for those looking for eco-friendly bedding. It’s soft, breathable, and great for anyone with sensitive skin or allergies.

Quilt Construction

The way a quilt is stitched and constructed impacts how well it holds its shape, traps heat, and maintains even fill distribution over time. Here are the most common quilt constructions to look out for:

• Box Stitch (Baffle Box) – This design creates small, evenly spaced compartments that keep the filling from shifting. It ensures even warmth across the quilt and prevents lumps or cold spots.
• Channel Stitch – Quilts with channel stitching have parallel seams running lengthwise or widthwise, allowing for some movement of the filling. These can be a good option for those who like to shake and redistribute warmth as needed.
• Quilted Pattern – Some quilts feature decorative stitching that secures the layers together in intricate designs. While visually appealing, these may not always provide the same level of even fill distribution as a box stitch.

A well-constructed quilt not only lasts longer but also delivers consistent comfort every night.

Australia’s Seasons: What Is the Best GSM for Quilts?

Choosing the right GSM for your quilt isn’t just about preference—it’s about comfort through every season.

Australia’s climate varies widely, from scorching summers to chilly winters, so selecting the right quilt weight can make all the difference.

Season	Recommended GSM	Material Suggestions
Summer	150–250 GSM	Bamboo, cotton (moisture-wicking, lightweight)
All-Season	300–400 GSM	Cotton, bamboo (balanced warmth & airflow)
Winter	400–800 GSM	Wool, down (warm yet breathable)

What GSM for a Summer Quilt?

☀️ Lightweight & breathable: 150–250 GSM

Hot nights can shave minutes off your sleep, with research showing that higher temperatures lead to shorter rest over time.

A 150–250 GSM quilt keeps things light and breathable, making it ideal for summer. Fabrics like bamboo and cotton help wick away moisture and improve airflow, so you stay cool through the night.

All-Season Comfort: The Versatile Option

🍂🌸 Mid-range warmth: 300–400 GSM

If you prefer one quilt year-round, a 300–400 GSM quilt offers a balance between warmth and breathability. This weight works well in most Australian climates, especially when paired with breathable materials like cotton or bamboo for adaptability.

What GSM for a Winter Quilt?

❄️ Warm & insulating: 400–800 GSM

Winter calls for extra warmth, and that’s where higher GSM quilts come in.

A 400–500 GSM quilt is great for mild winters, while those in colder climates may prefer 600–800 GSM for maximum insulation. Wool and down quilts are excellent choices, as they trap heat while still allowing breathability.

Some quilts also come with clip-on features, letting you attach another quilt for added warmth when winter rolls in—perfect for those who like customisable comfort.

How Should You Care for and Wash Your Quilt?

A good quilt is an investment in better sleep, so taking care of it properly helps it last longer and stay fresh.

But different materials have different care needs—so let’s break it down.

Regular Maintenance:

• Air it out: Give your quilt some fresh air every few weeks to release moisture and odours.
• Use a quilt cover: A quilt cover adds an extra layer of protection and is much easier to wash than the quilt itself.
• Shake it up: Fluffing your quilt redistributes the filling and prevents clumping, especially for down quilts.

How to Wash Different Quilts

Wool Quilts

• Spot clean when possible—washing too often can strip natural lanolin.
• If needed, use a gentle wool wash and cold water on a delicate cycle.
• Always air-dry flat to maintain its shape.

Cotton Quilts

• Machine washable on a warm cycle with mild detergent.
• Tumble dry on low heat or air-dry in the shade to prevent shrinkage.

Down Quilts

• Machine wash on a cold, gentle cycle with mild detergent.
• Dry with low heat and toss in a few dryer balls (or clean tennis balls) to keep the loft fluffy.
• Avoid frequent washing—airing it out is usually enough.

Bamboo Quilts

• Cold machine wash on a delicate cycle with a gentle detergent.
• Line dry in the shade to preserve softness and prevent damage.

How Often Should You Wash Your Quilt?

• Every 6 months: A full wash keeps your quilt fresh.
• More often if needed: If you sweat a lot or have allergies, seasonal washing might help.
• Always check the care label: Some quilts need professional cleaning!

How to Calculate GSM?

Ever wondered how quilt manufacturers determine GSM? It’s actually a straightforward formula:

The GSM Formula

GSM = Weight of Fabric (grams) / Area of Fabric (square metres)

Why Does GSM Matter?

Higher GSM means denser, warmer, and heavier quilts—perfect for winter. Lower GSM means lighter, breathable, and cooler quilts—ideal for summer.

Can You Calculate GSM at Home?

If you’re curious, here’s how:

1. Cut a 10cm x 10cm fabric sample (0.01m²).
2. Weigh it using a kitchen scale.
3. Multiply the weight by 100 to get the GSM.

This quick trick gives you a rough idea of fabric weight and warmth—handy when choosing your next quilt!

What is GSM in Mattress Topper?

Just like quilts, mattress toppers also use GSM to indicate thickness, density, and comfort level.

A higher GSM means a plusher, more cushioned feel, while a lower GSM keeps things light and breathable. When shopping for a topper, keep GSM in mind to match your preferred level of softness and support.

Sleep comfort starts with the right quilt—and breathable bedding makes it even better. Pair your perfect quilt with Ecosa’s cotton quilt cover for a soft, airy feel all year round.