We’ve all been there—that frustrating middle-of-the-night battle with a fitted sheet that’s sprung loose from a corner. Waking up tangled in bunched-up fabric instead of resting on a smooth, secure bed is more than just an annoyance; it’s a sleep-wrecker.
But the solution is usually simpler than you think. Extra deep fitted sheets are made specifically for the taller, plusher mattresses that are so common these days.
Why Your Fitted Sheets Keep Slipping Off
It’s a nightly struggle in countless Aussie homes. You make the bed perfectly, only to have a corner of the fitted sheet ping off with the slightest movement. If you’re constantly re-tucking and adjusting, it’s a sure sign your sheets just aren’t deep enough for your mattress.
Modern mattresses have gotten a whole lot taller. Pillow-tops, memory foam layers, and hybrid designs have added serious height, making standard sheets a poor fit for many beds. Even adding a plush mattress topper can be the final straw for a sheet that’s already stretched to its limit.
If you want to understand more about these comfort-boosting layers, have a look at our guide on what is a mattress topper to see how they can affect your bedding needs.
The Real Cost of a Poor Fit
A sheet that doesn't fit properly isn't just a messy look; it directly impacts your quality of rest. When a sheet is too tight, the constant tension causes it to slip off, leading to:
- Disrupted Sleep: The feeling of a loose, bunched-up sheet can easily pull you from a deep sleep.
- Constant Adjustments: Nobody wants to be fixing their bed in the middle of the night or first thing every morning.
- Increased Wear and Tear: Over-stretching a sheet puts immense strain on its elastic and seams, causing it to wear out much faster.
The core of the problem is a simple mismatch. A standard sheet is designed for a mattress around 25-30cm deep. When you try to force it onto a 40cm mattress with a topper, it’s like trying to fit into shoes two sizes too small—it’s just not going to work.
A Growing Market for a Better Solution
This common frustration has fuelled some serious growth in the bedding industry. In the Australian bedsheet market alone, the sector reached a value of USD 2,236.36 million and is projected to climb to USD 3,069.20 million by 2033.
A big part of this growth is driven by the demand for extra deep fitted sheets made for mattresses exceeding 40cm, which are now a common sight in Aussie homes.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to find that perfect, stay-put fit. We'll cover how to measure your mattress properly and choose the right fabrics, so you can finally enjoy uninterrupted sleep on a perfectly made bed.
Understanding Fitted Sheet Depths
Not all fitted sheets are created equal, and the real difference is in their pocket depth. Think of it like buying a hat—you need the right size for a snug, secure fit. Too tight and it’ll pop off; too loose and it’ll slide around. It’s the exact same logic for dressing your bed.
Getting your head around the language of sheet depths is the first step to solving your fitting dramas for good. Sheets are generally sorted into three main depths, each designed for a specific mattress height. Nailing this is the foundation of a perfectly made bed.
The Standard Fitted Sheet
First up, you’ve got the standard fitted sheet. For decades, these were the norm, designed to fit those traditional, thinner mattresses that were usually under 30cm high. If you have an older mattress or a slim, minimalist one, a standard sheet might still be all you need.
But as mattresses have gotten plusher with added pillow-tops and comfort layers, standard sheets often just can’t keep up. Trying to stretch one over a modern, thick mattress is a recipe for frustration and almost always leads to those infamous corners pinging off in the middle of the night.
Deep Pocket Fitted Sheets
Next in line are deep pocket fitted sheets. These came about as mattresses started getting thicker and more luxurious. They’re generally made to fit mattresses in the 30cm to 40cm range, giving you that little bit of extra fabric to handle the height.
For a lot of people, a deep pocket sheet is a decent middle ground. It’s a definite improvement on a standard sheet if you’ve got a moderately thick mattress, but it can still come up short if you have a premium pillow-top or use a hefty mattress topper.
Extra Deep Fitted Sheets
This brings us to the hero of our guide: extra deep fitted sheets. These are the ultimate solution for today's thick, cloud-like mattresses. Specifically designed for any mattress setup that’s over 40cm deep, they have plenty of fabric to accommodate not just the mattress itself but also any toppers and protectors you’ve layered on top.
An extra deep fitted sheet doesn’t just skim over the top of your mattress; it has enough material to wrap securely all the way underneath. This creates a solid, 360-degree grip that anchors the sheet in place, keeping it smooth and taut all night long.
If you’re not sure which category your bed falls into, don’t stress. You can find more details in our complete guide on what a fitted sheet is and finding the correct size, which breaks it down even further.
To make things even simpler, here’s a quick comparison table to help you see the differences at a glance and find the perfect match for your mattress.
Fitted Sheet Depth Comparison Guide
| Sheet Type | Accommodates Mattress Depth (cm) | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | Up to 30cm | Older, thinner mattresses or minimalist modern styles. |
| Deep Pocket | 30cm - 40cm | Moderately thick mattresses without substantial toppers. |
| Extra Deep Pocket | 40cm and above | Thick pillow-top, hybrid, or memory foam mattresses, especially with toppers. |
Ultimately, choosing the right depth is all about matching the sheet to your specific bed setup. A standard sheet on a thick mattress will constantly slip off, while an extra deep one on a thin mattress will feel baggy and bunched up. The goal is to find that "just right" fit for an uninterrupted, peaceful night's sleep.
How to Measure Your Mattress for a Perfect Sheet Fit
Ending the nightly struggle with a fitted sheet that just won’t stay put all comes down to one thing: getting an accurate measurement of your mattress depth. Guessing is the number one reason sheets don’t fit, so let’s get it right, once and for all. This simple, foolproof method will give you the exact number you need for a perfect fit, every single time.
First, you’ll need a couple of things from around the house. Grab a tape measure and something long and flat, like a hardcover book or even another ruler. This straight edge is the secret to getting a truly accurate reading, not just a rough estimate.
The Foolproof Measuring Method
Before you start, strip the bed of all your bedding, including the old fitted sheet. You want to measure the mattress exactly as you sleep on it, which means including anything that permanently adds to its height.
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Prepare Your Mattress: This is the step most people get wrong. Leave your mattress topper and any protectors on the bed. These layers add crucial height, and measuring without them is a guaranteed way to end up with a sheet that’s too small. The goal here is to measure the total height your sheet needs to cover.
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Position Your Flat Edge: Lay your flat object (like the book) across one of the top corners of your mattress. It should hang over the side of the bed, creating a perfectly level line from the highest point of your mattress surface.
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Measure the Depth: Now, take your tape measure and measure the distance from the very bottom edge of the mattress up to the bottom of your flat edge. This vertical measurement is your mattress depth.
Using a flat edge like this takes all the guesswork out of measuring mattresses with plush pillow-tops or slightly rounded edges. It gives you a precise number to work with.
The Golden Rule of Sheet Depth
Once you have your measurement, you’re ready for the most important part of the puzzle. A common mistake is buying a sheet that matches your exact mattress depth. For a secure fit, you need to allow extra fabric to tuck firmly underneath.
The Golden Rule: Always add an extra 5-7cm to your total mattress depth. For example, if your mattress and topper measure 38cm high, you should be looking for a fitted sheet with a depth of at least 43cm to 45cm.
This extra fabric is what anchors the sheet and stops those corners from annoyingly pinging off in the middle of the night. It's a simple rule that applies to all bedding—even when choosing the best crib mattresses for newborns, a snug, secure fit is always the top priority.
This little guide below shows exactly why getting the depth right matters.
As you can see, as mattresses have become thicker over the years—moving from standard to deep, and now extra deep—the need for the right sheet has become more important than ever.
Why This Matters for Aussie Beds
It's no surprise that extra deep fitted sheets are now a staple in Australian homes. With queen beds being the most popular size, many of us are adding plush toppers that can easily push a mattress depth into the 35-50cm range. This makes standard sheets almost impossible to use.
Taking a few minutes to measure properly means you only have to buy once. For more information on specific bed dimensions, you can find everything you need in our complete bedding size chart for Australia.
Choosing the Best Fabric and Construction
Once you've got the measurements sorted, the next fun part is choosing a fabric that feels just right. The material of your sheets can completely change your sleep experience, while the right construction details are what keep them from pinging off the mattress corners at 2 AM.
This isn't just about how the sheet feels on your skin; it's about how it breathes, how it lasts, and how much fuss it is to look after. Let’s break down the most popular options to help you find the perfect match for your bed.
Exploring Popular Fabric Choices
The fabric is the heart and soul of a good fitted sheet. Every material has its own personality—from crisp and cool to silky and soft—and what you choose really comes down to what makes you feel most comfortable.
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Cotton Percale: If you love that crisp, cool feeling of hotel sheets, percale is for you. It's a fantastic choice for hot sleepers or anyone who loves that classic, fresh-from-the-line feel. Its tight, matte weave is incredibly breathable and just gets softer with every wash.
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Cotton Sateen: Prefer something with a silkier, smoother touch? Sateen is your go-to. It has a lovely subtle sheen and feels a little warmer than percale, giving it a luxurious feel that drapes beautifully over the bed.
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Bamboo: A favourite for a reason, bamboo is celebrated for its incredible softness, breathability, and moisture-wicking properties. It's naturally hypoallergenic and brilliant at regulating temperature, helping to keep you cool in summer and cosy in winter.
Deciding between materials like bamboo and cotton often comes down to personal preference. If you're weighing them up, you can dive deeper in our comparison article, Bamboo vs Cotton Sheets What’s The Difference.
Debunking the Thread Count Myth
For years, we've been told that a higher thread count equals better sheets. But that’s not the whole story. While thread count—the number of threads in one square inch of fabric—does tell you about density, it's often misleading.
The quality of the yarn is far more important than the quantity. A beautifully made 300-400 thread count sheet using high-quality, long-staple cotton will feel softer, breathe better, and last much longer than a 1000 thread count sheet made from cheap, short-staple fibres.
Think of it like cooking: you'll always get a better result using a few premium ingredients than a lot of low-quality ones. So, focus on the quality of the material first and the thread count second.
This shift towards better materials and a proper fit is making a real difference. Australia's home bedding market is currently valued at USD 3,317.8 million and is expected to hit USD 5,833.1 million by 2030. A huge part of that growth is coming from extra deep fitted sheets, simply because people are so much happier when their sheets actually fit. You can read more about these insights into the Australian home bedding market.
The Secret to a Secure Fit: Construction Details
Beyond the fabric, the real secret weapon against slipping and bunching is the elastic. This small detail is what separates a sheet that just covers your mattress from one that truly hugs it.
When you're shopping for extra deep fitted sheets, you’ll generally come across two designs:
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Corner-Only Elastic: This is the most basic design, where elastic is just sewn into the four corners. It helps get the sheet on, but it offers very little grip along the sides, making it much more likely to ride up or slip off when you move.
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Fully Encased Elastic: This is the gold standard for a secure, stay-put fit. A fully encased elastic (sometimes called continuous elastic) runs all the way around the entire hem of the sheet. This creates a 360-degree grip that pulls the fabric taut and tucks it securely under every side of your mattress.
Think of a fully encased elastic like a drawstring bag, cinching the sheet firmly around the base of the mattress. That consistent tension stops the fabric from shifting, bunching, or popping off the corners—even on the deepest mattresses with bulky toppers. It's a small feature that makes a massive difference in keeping your bed neat and comfortable all night long.
Common Fitted Sheet Problems and How to Fix Them
Even with the best intentions, bedding issues can pop up. A fitted sheet that’s too loose is just as frustrating as one that constantly pings off a corner in the middle of the night. This guide will help you sort out the most common problems with a few simple fixes, so your bed is always a welcoming, comfortable retreat.
Getting the fit right is all about creating a smooth, secure foundation for a great night's sleep. Let's tackle these issues head-on.
The Slipping Corner Conundrum
This is the number one complaint we hear. You wake up, and one corner of your sheet has sprung loose, leaving the mattress exposed. It’s almost always a sign that your sheet's pockets aren't deep enough to handle your mattress, especially if you have a topper.
- The Problem: The sheet is stretched to its absolute limit. Any movement you make creates just enough tension to pull the corners up and off.
- The Fix: This is a classic case for an extra deep fitted sheet. Re-measure your mattress with its topper on, and then add 5-7cm to find your ideal pocket depth. This extra fabric ensures there's enough material to tuck securely underneath, anchoring it firmly in place.
The Baggy, Wrinkled Mess
Sometimes the problem is the exact opposite: your sheet is too big, leaving loose, baggy fabric bunched up on top of the bed. This often happens when you use an extra deep fitted sheet on a standard-depth mattress.
- The Problem: There’s simply too much fabric for the mattress height, causing it to pool and wrinkle.
- The Fix: The solution here is to match your sheet depth more closely to your mattress. If your mattress is only 30cm high, a standard or deep pocket sheet will give you a much snugger fit. For a quick fix on a sheet you already own, you can use sheet suspenders or straps that clip onto the corners underneath the mattress to pull the fabric taut.
A well-fitting sheet does more than just look good; it directly impacts your sleep quality. Loose, bunched-up fabric can be uncomfortable and disrupt your rest, while a sheet that’s too tight can compress the top layers of your mattress, affecting its feel.
Keeping Your Sheet's Elastic Strong
The elastic is the powerhouse of a fitted sheet, but it needs a little care to stay strong and stretchy. High heat is the biggest enemy of elastic, causing it to become brittle and lose its grip over time.
To keep your sheet fitting like new:
- Wash with Care: Use a cool or warm wash cycle instead of a hot one. It’s much gentler on both the fabric and the elastic band.
- Avoid High Heat Drying: Tumble dry on a low setting or, even better, line dry your sheets. The sun is a natural sanitiser, and air drying is the kindest way to preserve elasticity.
- Don't Overstretch: When making the bed, gently guide the corners on rather than aggressively pulling and stretching the sheet into place.
Finally, while extra deep fitted sheets keep your bed looking tidy, overall hygiene is just as important. A clean mattress provides the perfect foundation. If you're looking for tips on keeping this crucial part of your bed fresh, you can learn how to clean a mattress like a pro to ensure a healthier sleep environment from the base up.
Finding Your Perfect Sheets at Manchester Factory
Alright, you've done the measuring and you know what you're looking for. Now for the fun part – finding that perfect set of extra deep fitted sheets right here on our site. We've made our online store as simple and straightforward as possible, so you can go from measuring your mattress to checkout with total confidence.
Our goal is to help you find bedding that not only fits like a glove but feels absolutely incredible to sleep on. With a handpicked collection of beautiful fabrics and quality construction, your dream sheets are just a few clicks away.
Navigating Our Collection with Ease
We know you don't have time to scroll endlessly. That’s why we’ve set up easy-to-use filters on our site to help you pinpoint exactly what you need in seconds. You can quickly narrow down our entire range by what matters most to you.
- Filter by Size: Whether you have a Queen, King, or Super King bed, just select your size to see all the options that will fit perfectly.
- Filter by Material: Are you dreaming of crisp cotton, silky-smooth bamboo, or the cosy warmth of flannelette? Choose your favourite fabric to find your match.
- Filter by Colour: Effortlessly coordinate with your bedroom décor by choosing from our huge range of stylish, modern and classic colours.
This takes all the guesswork out of shopping. You can explore our full collection and see just how simple it is to find your perfect fit by browsing our range of high-quality fitted sheets.
Buy with Total Confidence
Clarity is everything when you're buying bedding online. That's why on every product page, we lay out all the essential details you need to make the right choice. You’ll find clear information on the pocket depth, fabric composition, and care instructions right where you need them.
We are committed to quality you can actually feel. Our extra deep fitted sheets feature strong, fully encased elastic for a superior 360-degree grip, making sure they hug your mattress securely night after night.
This transparency means you can be absolutely certain that the sheet you’re buying has the generous depth your mattress and topper combo needs. It’s all part of our promise to deliver bedding that solves your fit problems for good.
Our Commitment to You
Your satisfaction is our top priority, from the moment you start browsing to the first night you sleep on your new sheets. We stand by the quality of our products and want you to feel completely secure in your purchase.
That’s why we offer a straightforward returns policy and fast, reliable shipping across Australia. With over 4,500 five-star reviews, you can trust you’re buying from a brand that fellow Aussies love and rely on for a better night’s sleep.
Got Questions? We've Got Answers.
To wrap things up, here are a few of the most common questions we get from customers trying to find the right fitted sheet. Think of it as your final checklist before you buy—just a few quick, clear answers to give you complete confidence in your choice.
Do I Need a Deeper Sheet for a Mattress Protector?
It really depends on how thick your protector is. A thin, waterproof one might only add a centimetre or two, and your current sheet could probably handle it. But if you’ve got a plush, quilted protector, that can easily add 2-4cm of extra height.
The safest bet is always to measure your mattress with the protector on it. If that new total pushes you past the 35cm mark, an extra deep fitted sheet is your best friend for a secure, smooth fit without any annoying pulling or slipping.
Will an Extra Deep Sheet Be Too Loose on a Standard Mattress?
Yes, in most cases, it’ll be baggy. An extra deep fitted sheet is cut specifically for a tall mattress, so if you try to wrangle it onto a standard one, all that extra fabric has nowhere to go. You'll end up with a loose, wrinkled surface that’s not very comfortable to sleep on.
The secret to that crisp, taut, hotel-quality finish is getting the pocket depth of your sheet as close as possible to the depth of your mattress. It makes all the difference in how your bed looks and feels.
It’s always better to get the right size from the start rather than trying to make a sheet that’s too big or too small work.
How Can I Spot Good Quality Elastic?
This is a fantastic question because the elastic does all the heavy lifting! When you’re looking at product descriptions, keep an eye out for phrases like "fully encased elastic" or a "continuous elastic band." This is what separates a good sheet from a great one.
It means the elastic runs all the way around the edge of the sheet, not just in the corners. This creates a 360-degree grip that pulls the sheet snugly under your mattress, making it far less likely to pop off or ride up, no matter how much you toss and turn.
Is a Higher Thread Count Always Better?
Not really. While thread count has been a big buzzword in bedding for years, it's often misunderstood. It just tells you how many threads are woven into a square inch of fabric, not how good those threads are.
Honestly, a 300-400 thread count sheet made from high-quality, long-staple cotton will almost always feel softer, breathe better, and last longer than a 1000 thread count sheet made from cheap, short-staple fibres. Focus on the quality of the material first—a good thread count is just a nice bonus.
Ready to find the perfect fit and transform your sleep? Explore the full collection of premium bedding at Manchester Factory and discover the difference that quality makes.
Shop our range of extra deep fitted sheets now!