Here in Australia, the standard size for a double bed quilt cover is 180cm x 210cm. Getting this measurement right is the key to creating a bed that not only looks fantastic but feels comfortable all night long.
Finding Your Perfect Double Quilt Cover Size
Choosing the right quilt cover isn’t just about the colour or pattern; it’s about getting the dimensions spot on for a flawless fit. Think of it like a well-tailored suit for your bed. The standard 180cm x 210cm size ensures your quilt insert (or doona) sits perfectly inside without bunching up or shifting around while you sleep.
This specific sizing is completely intentional. A standard Australian double mattress measures 137cm x 190cm, so the quilt cover is designed to provide plenty of overhang on all sides.
That extra fabric is crucial for a few reasons:
- Total Coverage: It keeps you and the mattress fully covered, even if you’re an active sleeper who moves around a lot.
- A Beautiful Look: The generous drape creates those clean, inviting lines that give your bed a plush, professionally styled appearance.
- All-Night Comfort: It stops annoying drafts from sneaking in and ensures you stay consistently warm from head to toe.
To give you a clearer picture, here’s how the standard sizes for a double bed mattress and its quilt cover stack up.
Australian Double Bed Sizing At a Glance
This quick comparison shows exactly why the standard quilt cover size works so well, providing that ideal overhang for comfort and style.
| Item | Width (cm) | Length (cm) |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Double Mattress | 137cm | 190cm |
| Standard Double Quilt Cover | 180cm | 210cm |
As you can see, the quilt cover is significantly wider and longer, which is what creates that perfect drape.
A correctly sized quilt cover is the foundation of a comfortable and beautifully made bed. It eliminates the frustration of tangled bedding and creates a serene sleeping environment.
Getting the measurements of a double bed quilt cover sorted from the start makes shopping for new bedding simple and stress-free. Whether you're refreshing your room or buying a brand-new set, knowing this standard helps you confidently explore our wide range of double size bedding.
Why Getting the Right Quilt Cover Fit Actually Matters
Think of choosing the right quilt cover like getting a suit tailored. The standard 180cm x 210cm for a double bed isn’t just a random number; it’s the sweet spot that ensures your doona fits snugly inside, preventing it from bunching up or shifting around while you sleep.
An ill-fitting cover is more than just a minor hassle. It’s the reason you get those frustrating cold spots in the middle of the night or end up with a lumpy, uncomfortable bed that wrecks your sleep. Nailing the fit is the first step to a genuinely restful night.
It's All About the Look
A perfectly fitted quilt cover does wonders for the look of your bedroom. It creates those clean, crisp lines that make your bed look inviting and properly styled—the true centrepiece of the room. A cover that’s too small looks strained and tight, while one that’s too big just looks sloppy.
Beyond the practical side of things, the right fit is key to pulling your whole design theme together. If you're aiming for a specific look, like a relaxed coastal vibe, you'll find plenty of inspiring tropical bedroom ideas where the bedding makes all the difference.
The Power of a Standard Size
Having an industry standard also makes shopping so much easier. Knowing that most Australian brands stick to these dimensions means you can buy a new cover with confidence, without worrying if it will fit the doona you already own.
This reliability is a big deal, especially since double beds are so common. In fact, they make up a huge chunk—roughly 30-40%—of beds in Australian homes, making this size a go-to for solo sleepers and smaller households.
A great fit isn't just for looks; it's about function. It makes sure your quilt can do its job properly, giving you even warmth and comfort without you having to constantly readjust it.
Ultimately, when you understand why these measurements matter, you’re in a much better position to create a better sleep space. While the standard size is perfect for most, some people love a more generous overhang. If that sounds like you, we've put together a guide exploring the reasons to upsize your quilt.
How to Measure Your Bed for a Perfect Fit
While the standard 180cm x 210cm size fits most double beds, the only way to guarantee a perfect drape is to measure your own bed. It only takes a couple of minutes, and it can save you the hassle of a return—especially if you have a non-standard bed frame or an extra-plush mattress.
The old saying "measure twice, buy once" is your best friend when shopping for bedding. Before you click "add to cart," grab a tape measure and follow these simple steps. It's the secret to getting that beautiful, styled look you're after.
The Three Key Measurements You Need
Getting the right numbers is straightforward. All you need is the width, length, and most importantly, the depth of your mattress.
- Width: Run your tape measure from the left edge of the mattress straight across to the right edge.
- Length: Now, measure from the head of the mattress all the way down to the foot.
- Depth (or Height): This is the one people often forget, but it's crucial. Measure from the bottom seam of your mattress right up to the top seam. If you use a thick mattress topper, make sure you include it in this measurement!
Don't just assume your mattress fits the standard dimensions. The rise of pillow-top mattresses and thick toppers means that mattress depth can vary significantly, which directly impacts how a quilt cover will drape.
Why Mattress Depth Changes Everything
A standard double quilt cover is designed with enough overhang for a mattress depth of around 20-30cm. But if your mattress is 35cm or deeper, that standard overhang just won't be enough. You'll end up with the sides of your mattress peeking out.
It's a really common issue that can make even the most beautiful bedding look ill-fitting and a bit skimpy. This same principle applies when you're buying other bedding, too. You can learn more in our guide on what a fitted sheet is and how to find the correct size.
Once you have these three measurements, you have all the info you need to choose confidently. You can ensure your new quilt cover gives you that luxurious, full coverage your bedroom deserves.
Understanding the Full Range of Australian Bed Sizes
To really get why a double bed quilt cover measures what it does, it helps to see where it sits in the bigger picture of Aussie bedding. When you understand the whole lineup, you can see why 180cm x 210cm is the perfect fit for a double bed, and you're less likely to accidentally grab a King Single or Queen.
Think of it as your cheat sheet for Australian bedding. It’s the best way to double-check you’re buying the right size and helps if you ever plan on upgrading your bed down the track.
Comparing Australian Bedding Sizes
While the double bed is a classic choice, Aussie bedrooms come in all shapes and sizes, and each one has its own standard quilt cover dimensions. Knowing your mattress size is the first step, and this guide on how to choose the best bed mattress size for your home is a great place to start.
For a complete rundown of every size available, you can always check out our detailed Australian bedding size guide.
These standards weren’t just picked at random. Over time, Australian bedding sizes evolved to perfectly match the mattresses we buy here, cementing the 180cm by 210cm quilt cover as the go-to for doubles. This standardisation also takes our temperate climate into account, ensuring covers are big enough for the kind of doonas we actually use.
This infographic shows you exactly how a double quilt cover is designed to fit its mattress.
As you can see, the overhang is generous—giving you an extra 42cm in width and 22cm in length. This isn't just for looks; it ensures you get that full, cosy coverage and a beautiful drape over the sides of the bed.
Having a clear understanding of the full size range removes all guesswork from the shopping process. It empowers you to choose the right bedding with complete confidence, every single time.
Common Sizing Mistakes You Can Easily Avoid
Shopping for a new quilt cover should be fun, but a few common sizing mistakes can quickly turn that excitement into disappointment. Let's walk through the traps that often lead to bedding buyer's remorse and, more importantly, how you can sidestep them for a perfect fit every time.
One of the biggest mix-ups we see is confusing international sizing. A 'Full' size bed in the US is not the same as an Australian 'Double'. A US Full mattress is a bit wider but also shorter, which means a quilt cover made for it might leave your feet poking out on a chilly night. It’s a small difference that makes a big impact.
Always check the specific measurements of a double bed quilt cover in centimetres before you buy from an overseas retailer. This one simple step saves you the hassle of a cover that’s several centimetres too short or narrow for your doona.
Overlooking Mattress Height
Another classic oversight is forgetting about the depth of your mattress. With the rise of plush pillow-top mattresses and thick, comfy toppers, many beds are much taller than they used to be. A standard quilt cover just might not have enough overhang to properly cover a deep mattress, giving it a skimpy, ill-fitting look.
Before you start shopping, grab a tape measure and check your mattress height, including any toppers. This ensures you’ll choose a cover that gives you that generous, luxurious drape down all sides of the bed.
These little measurement issues can also cause bigger problems, like your quilt constantly shifting and bunching up inside its cover. An incorrect fit is often the number one reason you wake up to find your doona has migrated to one end. If this sounds familiar, you can learn more about why your quilt keeps bunching up and how to fix it in our detailed guide.
By keeping these common pitfalls in mind, you can shop with confidence, knowing your new bedding will fit flawlessly from the first night.
Answering Your Top Quilt Cover Questions
Even with the standard measurements sorted, a few questions always seem to pop up just when you're about to choose a new quilt cover. Getting these finer details right is often what separates a good purchase from a great one. Let's tackle the most common queries to clear up any last-minute confusion.
Think of this as your go-to guide for those final questions, so you can feel completely confident in your choice.
Can I Use a Queen Quilt Cover on a Double Bed?
Absolutely! This is actually a popular styling trick for anyone who loves that extra-luxe, oversized look. A queen quilt cover, which is 210cm x 210cm, gives a double bed a much more generous drape, creating that plush, hotel-like feel.
Just be mindful of how low it hangs. The goal is a full, inviting bed, not a cover that puddles on the floor—that can look messy and even become a trip hazard.
Do All Brands Use the Same Double Measurements?
While 180cm x 210cm is the accepted industry standard here in Australia, you might occasionally find slight variations of a few centimetres between brands. It's not common, but it does happen.
This is why it's always a smart habit to double-check the specific dimensions on the product packaging or in the online description. That small step ensures you get the exact fit you're expecting for the measurements of a double bed quilt cover, with no surprises when you get it home.
A quality quilt cover made from natural fibres like cotton or linen is often pre-shrunk to minimise changes. Following the care instructions—typically a cold wash and line drying—means any shrinkage should be negligible and won't compromise the fit.
How Much Will a Quilt Cover Shrink After Washing?
Shrinkage is a valid concern, especially when you're dealing with natural fabrics like cotton or linen. The good news is that most reputable manufacturers pre-shrink their fabrics to make sure the fit stays consistent, wash after wash.
As long as you follow the recommended care instructions, any shrinkage will be minimal—usually less than 1-2%. Standard Australian sizing already has enough leeway built in to handle this minor change without affecting how well it fits your doona, so your cover will continue to look and feel perfect.
At Manchester Factory, we ensure all our bedding meets the highest standards of quality and sizing for a perfect fit every time. Explore our full collection of stylish and comfortable bedding today at https://www.manchesterfactory.com.au.