Here in Australia, a standard double bed doona cover measures 180 cm x 210 cm. It’s a size that’s been perfected over time to generously fit a standard double mattress, giving you that beautiful drape over the sides that looks inviting and keeps you cosy.
Why Your Doona Cover Is Bigger Than Your Bed
Ever laid a new doona cover on your bed and wondered why it’s so much bigger than the mattress itself? It’s a common thought, but that extra size is there for a very good reason—it’s all about comfort and looks.
Think of your doona cover like a well-made coat. It needs to be bigger than your body to hang properly and keep you warm. The same goes for your bed. That intentional size difference ensures you have plenty of coverage to snuggle under all night, ending the nightly tug-of-war for the doona. The extra fabric allows it to fall gracefully over the mattress edges, covering the mattress depth completely.
Understanding the Overhang
The key to a well-dressed bed is the overhang—that’s the part of the doona that drapes over the sides of your mattress. Without enough overhang, your doona would just perch on top, looking a bit small and failing to trap warmth effectively.
A standard Aussie double mattress is about 138 cm wide and 188 cm long. With a 180 cm x 210 cm doona cover, you get a generous amount of fabric falling over the edges, which is exactly what you want for both warmth and style.
A well-fitting doona cover is the difference between a bed that looks merely functional and one that looks truly inviting. The overhang is not just practical for warmth; it’s a key design element that contributes to a plush, luxurious aesthetic.
Australian Bedding Dimensions at a Glance
Getting your head around the relationship between mattress and doona sizes is the first step to choosing the right fit. The table below gives you a quick snapshot of how our standard doona covers are designed to fit Aussie beds.
For a deeper dive, you can check out our complete Australian bedding size chart.
Australian Bedding Size Guide (in cm)
Here's a quick look at how standard doona covers compare to their matching mattresses, showing you exactly how much overhang you can expect.
| Bed Size | Standard Mattress Size (cm) | Standard Doona Cover Size (cm) | Typical Overhang Per Side (cm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single | 92 x 188 | 140 x 210 | Approx. 24 cm |
| King Single | 107 x 203 | 160 x 210 | Approx. 26.5 cm |
| Double | 138 x 188 | 180 x 210 | Approx. 21 cm |
| Queen | 153 x 203 | 210 x 210 | Approx. 28.5 cm |
| King | 183 x 203 | 245 x 210 | Approx. 31 cm |
As you can see, the sizing system is designed to give every bed that perfect, comfortable drape. It's this thoughtful approach that makes all the difference in creating a bed you can't wait to climb into.
How to Measure Your Bed for a Perfect Fit
While standard sizes are a great starting point, the real secret to a perfect doona cover fit comes down to your specific mattress and doona. Getting out the tape measure is the single best thing you can do to guarantee a flawless result. It takes all the guesswork out of the equation and lets you buy with total confidence.
This quick process only takes a few minutes, but it'll save you from the disappointment of a cover that's too short or a doona that swims inside its case. Grab a tape measure, and let’s find the exact numbers you need.
Measuring Your Mattress for Drape
First up, let's look at your mattress. The measurement most people forget isn't the length or width—it's the depth. Today's pillow-top and deep-sided mattresses need a lot more fabric to get that beautiful, full drape over the sides.
- Measure the Width: Run your tape measure from one edge of the mattress straight across to the other.
- Measure the Depth: Now, measure from the very bottom edge of your mattress to the highest point of its surface.
- Calculate Total Width Needed: Add the width measurement to twice the depth measurement (once for each side). This final number is the minimum width your doona cover needs to be for fantastic coverage.
Standard mattress depth in Australia can vary hugely, from older 20-25 cm profiles to modern pillow-tops that are well over 35 cm deep. This depth completely changes how a doona cover drapes, as a thicker mattress demands a wider doona to get enough overhang on the sides.
The diagram below shows exactly how your mattress dimensions affect the final look and fit of your doona.
As you can see, a deeper mattress uses up more of the doona's width, leaving less to hang over the sides.
Measuring Your Doona Insert
Next, let's measure the doona insert itself. An old doona that's a bit compressed can give you a dodgy reading, so it’s always best to lay it flat on the bed or the floor to measure it properly.
Pro Tip: Your doona cover should be the exact same size as your doona insert, or just a couple of centimetres smaller. A slightly snug fit is your best friend here—it stops the doona from bunching up inside.
Measure both the width and the length of your insert. These are the numbers you'll want to match directly to the product specifications when you're shopping. If you have a bed with unique dimensions, you might also be exploring options for designing a custom bed frame to fit your space, which will definitely influence your bedding choices. Getting these measurements right is just as important when you choose the right fitted sheets for your bed.
Solving the Most Common Doona Cover Fit Problems
Ever bought what you thought was the perfect double bed doona cover, only to find it looks a bit… off? We’ve all been there. It’s that common frustration that can mess with the whole look of an otherwise beautifully made bed. From a bunched-up doona to a cover that shrinks after one wash, these fit problems can be maddening.
The good news is, most of these issues are surprisingly easy to fix once you know what’s causing them. Understanding why they happen is the first step. Let's walk through the most frequent fit challenges and find some practical solutions to get that perfectly plush, inviting bed you've been dreaming of.
Why Is My Doona Bunching Inside the Cover?
This has to be the most universal bedding complaint out there. You wake up with a cold spot because your doona has shifted overnight, leaving you with nothing but empty fabric at the edges. Nine times out of ten, this happens for one simple reason: the cover is too big for the doona.
Even a few extra centimetres of fabric is enough to let the insert slide around and bunch up. The best solution is a doona cover that's either the exact same size as your doona or even 1-2 cm smaller. This creates a snug, secure fit that stops it from moving.
To really lock it in place, look for doona covers with internal corner ties. These simple ribbons let you secure the corners of your doona directly to the cover, so it has nowhere to go. If your favourite cover doesn’t have them, don't worry—there's a wealth of information on how to fix a bunching quilt with just a few simple tricks.
How to Handle Fabric Shrinkage
Another common culprit behind a poor fit is fabric shrinkage. You wash your beautiful new cotton or linen doona cover, and suddenly it seems a size too small for your bed. This isn’t a product fault; it’s just a natural characteristic of high-quality, plant-based fibres.
Good quality natural fibres like cotton and linen can shrink by up to 3-5% after the first few washes. For a standard 180 cm wide double doona cover, that could mean losing up to 9 cm in width—enough to significantly affect how it drapes over the bed.
To keep shrinkage to a minimum, always wash your bedding in cold or lukewarm water on a gentle cycle. The real enemy here is high heat, so avoid the tumble dryer whenever possible. Line drying is always your best bet for preserving the size and feel of your linen.
Achieving the Perfect Overhang or Tucked Look
Finally, getting that signature style you love—whether it’s a neat, hotel-style tuck or a relaxed, generous overhang—all comes down to the right sizing.
- For a Tucked-In Look: Choose a double bed doona cover that closely matches your mattress dimensions. You just need enough extra fabric to tuck securely under the mattress for that crisp, clean finish.
- For a Generous Overhang: If you have a deep mattress or just love a luxurious, billowy drape, think about sizing up. Using a queen doona cover (210 cm x 210 cm) on your double bed gives you that extra width for a truly plush, enveloping feel.
Choosing the Right Fabric and Closure Type
Getting the measurements right for your double bed doona cover is a huge step, but the journey to the perfect bed doesn't end there. The fabric you choose and the type of closure it has are just as crucial. These elements define how your bedding feels against your skin, how breathable it is, and even how frustrating (or easy) making the bed will be.
Think of it this way: the size is the structure, but the fabric is the soul of your bedding. It dictates comfort, maintenance, and the overall vibe of your bedroom. A crisp cotton feels entirely different from relaxed, textural linen, and each has its own benefits.
Popular Doona Cover Fabrics Explained
Choosing a material can feel overwhelming, but it really comes down to what you prefer in terms of feel and function. Each fabric offers a totally unique sleeping experience.
- Egyptian Cotton: Famous for its long fibres, Egyptian cotton is incredibly soft, strong, and breathable. It gives you that crisp, five-star hotel feel and honestly just gets softer with every single wash.
- Linen: If you love a relaxed, lived-in aesthetic, linen is for you. It's highly breathable, making it a dream for Aussie climates, and has a beautiful natural texture that looks effortlessly chic.
- Bamboo: Silky soft to the touch, bamboo fabric is a fantastic choice, especially for sensitive skin. It's also naturally hypoallergenic and thermoregulating, helping to keep you cool in summer and warm in winter. The choice between bamboo and cotton is often a hot topic, and you can explore an in-depth comparison of bamboo vs cotton sheets to see which suits you best.
- Microfibre: This synthetic option is a workhorse, known for its durability, softness, and resistance to wrinkles. It’s a great budget-friendly choice that’s also a breeze to care for, making it ideal for busy households or kids' rooms.
The right fabric does more than just cover your doona; it enhances your sleep. Consider not only the feel but also the maintenance. A material that fits your lifestyle is just as important as one that fits your bed.
Comparing Doona Cover Fabrics and Closures
To make things a little easier, here's a quick look at how the most common fabrics stack up against each other. This table should help you pinpoint the best option for your sleep style and laundry routine.
| Feature | Egyptian Cotton | Linen | Bamboo | Microfibre |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Feel | Crisp, smooth, hotel-like luxury | Textural, relaxed, naturally soft | Silky-smooth, lightweight, drapey | Ultra-soft, velvety, lightweight |
| Best For | Hot sleepers, luxury lovers | Warm climates, relaxed aesthetics | Sensitive skin, eco-conscious buyers | Kids' rooms, budget-conscious buyers |
| Breathability | Excellent | Exceptional | Excellent | Good |
| Durability | Very High (gets softer with age) | Very High (extremely strong) | High (when cared for properly) | High (resists shrinking & stains) |
| Care | Machine washable, moderate wrinkling | Machine washable, prone to wrinkling | Gentle wash, low heat, delicate | Easy care, wrinkle-resistant |
| Closures | Often Buttons or Zippers | Typically Buttons for a rustic look | Usually Zippers or Press Studs | All types, often Zippers/Press Studs |
Ultimately, your choice in fabric sets the tone for your entire sleep experience. Whether you want the crispness of cotton or the effortless cool of linen, matching the material to your needs is key.
Understanding Closure Types
The seemingly small detail of how your doona cover closes can make a big difference in your daily routine. It affects both how securely your doona stays put and the final look of your bed.
There are three main types you'll come across:
- Buttons: Often a feature on classic or farmhouse-style covers, buttons provide a really secure closure. They can add a lovely decorative touch but, let's be honest, can be a bit time-consuming to do up after a wash.
- Zippers: A zipper closure offers a sleek, hidden look and is super quick to open and close. It creates a seamless edge at the bottom of the bed and is excellent at keeping the doona fully enclosed without any escapees.
- Press Studs (Snaps): These are a convenient middle ground, faster than buttons but still offering a secure hold. They’re common on many contemporary doona cover designs simply for their ease of use.
At the end of the day, the best closure type is the one that simplifies your life while keeping your doona securely in place. No one wants to be fighting with their bedding first thing in the morning
How to Care for Your Doona Cover So It Always Fits
You’ve found the perfect double bed doona cover, and now the challenge is keeping it that way. Looking after it properly is the secret to stopping it from shrinking and making sure the fabric stays looking and feeling great for years. Think of it less like a chore and more like essential upkeep for your favourite bedding.
The number one mistake that leads to a shrunken doona cover is using high heat. It’s so tempting to throw it in a hot wash or a tumble dryer for a quick turnaround, but this is exactly what causes fabrics—especially natural ones like cotton and linen—to shrink up. Over time, high heat also weakens the fibres, cutting the lifespan of your beautiful bedding short.
Washing and Drying the Right Way
To keep your doona cover looking and fitting perfectly, the best approach is a simple one: wash it on its own in a gentle, cold cycle and then line-dry it out of direct sunlight. This one step is the most effective way to protect both the fabric’s structure and its colour.
Here’s a quick breakdown for different materials:
- Cotton and Linen: Stick to a cold or lukewarm wash. These natural fibres are the most likely to shrink in hot water. Line drying is always best, but if you have to use a dryer, make sure it’s on the lowest heat setting you’ve got.
- Microfibre and Synthetics: These are a bit more forgiving but still do best with a gentle, cool wash. They also dry incredibly fast, so a short tumble on low heat is usually all you need if you can't line dry.
- Bamboo: Treat this one with a bit of extra care. A gentle, cold wash is non-negotiable to protect those silky-soft fibres. Keep it far away from high heat, which can ruin its luxurious feel for good.
When in doubt, always check the care label. Manufacturers know their fabric blends best and provide specific instructions to help you get the most life and the best fit out of your doona cover.
Of course, washing the cover is only half the battle. To keep your whole setup fresh, clean, and healthy, check out our guide on how to wash your doona insert as well. A clean insert paired with a perfectly fitting cover is the key to a much better night's sleep.
Our Top Picks for Double Doona Covers
Alright, you've got the essentials down—size, fabric, and fit. Now comes the fun part: choosing a double doona cover that pulls it all together. To show you how these ideas work in a real bedroom, we’ve handpicked a couple of standouts from our collection.
Each one has a completely different feel, but both are spot-on for a standard double bed. Let's take a look at a few favourites that bring our guide to life.
For a Five-Star Hotel Feel
The Sienna Living 1000TC Cotton Rich Quilt Cover Set
If you’re chasing that crisp, clean, luxurious feeling you only seem to get in a high-end hotel, this is the one. The high thread count gives it a sateen-like smoothness and a satisfying weight that feels incredible to slip into at the end of the day.
- Why It Works: The premium cotton blend is seriously breathable, which is key for keeping you comfortable all night long, no matter the season.
- The Fit: Sized at 180 x 210 cm, it’s cut perfectly to drape over a standard double mattress, giving you that plush, tucked-in look hotels are famous for.
This is where fabric quality really shines. A high-GSM (grams per square metre) Egyptian cotton blend, like this one, feels more substantial and durable than lighter alternatives. It’s an easy way to bring a touch of luxury home. You can explore our full range of quality quilt covers at Manchester Factory to see the difference for yourself.
For a Relaxed, Coastal Vibe
The Sienna Living Vintage Washed Cotton Quilt Cover Set
For anyone who loves a more casual, lived-in style, this vintage washed cotton set is a perfect match. It has that beautiful, soft-to-the-touch texture that feels like an old favourite from the very first night.
This style is all about embracing a relaxed aesthetic. It’s designed to look great without needing to be perfectly ironed, making it a low-maintenance choice that doesn’t sacrifice an ounce of style or comfort.
The fabric is pre-washed, which not only enhances its softness but also helps minimise any future shrinkage, so you know the fit will stay true wash after wash. It’s ideal for creating that calm, coastal-inspired retreat in your own bedroom, proving that the right double bed doona cover can completely define the feel of your space.
Your Questions Answered
Choosing the right bedding can bring up a few tricky questions. Getting the size and fit just right makes all the difference, so let’s clear up a few of the most common queries we get about double doona covers.
Can I Use a Queen Doona on a Double Bed?
Yes, you absolutely can—and it’s one of our favourite styling tricks. Using a queen doona on a double bed is a brilliant way to get that lush, generous overhang you see in magazines.
A standard Aussie queen doona is 210 cm x 210 cm, which gives you an extra 15 cm of drape on each side compared to a standard double. It’s perfect for preventing the dreaded tug-of-war over the covers and looks fantastic on beds with deeper, modern mattresses where a standard double might sit a little short.
What Is the Difference Between a Doona and Quilt Cover?
In Australia, there’s no difference at all. We use the terms "doona cover" and "quilt cover" completely interchangeably. Both refer to the protective, decorative sleeve that goes over your quilt or doona insert.
You'll also hear the term "duvet cover," which is more common overseas, but it all means the same thing. So, no matter what you call it, the standard double bed doona cover size in Australia stays the same: 180 cm x 210 cm.
The key thing to remember is that while the names change depending on where you are, the function and sizing are consistent here in Australia. Always focus on the dimensions on the label, not just the name.
How Do I Stop My Doona Moving Inside the Cover?
Ah, the classic runaway doona—a problem that can ruin a perfectly good night's sleep. The best way to stop your doona from bunching up at the bottom of the cover is to look for one with built-in ties.
Most modern doonas have little loops on each corner, and a well-designed cover will have matching ties inside. You just tie them together, and the insert is locked in place. If your current cover doesn't have them, you can easily buy a set of quilt clips or even sew some ribbons into the corners yourself for a quick, permanent fix.
At Manchester Factory, we believe a perfectly dressed bed is the key to a great night’s sleep. If you're ready to find the ideal fit and style for your bedroom, explore our huge range of high-quality doona covers. Shop the collection at Manchester Factory.