Choosing the sheet size for the double bed and more
Jun 28, 2024
Choosing the right sheet sizes is a priority that guarantees not only a good restorative sleep but also a high quality of sleep, lasting over time. In the guide below, we will see how to choose the sheet size suitable for your needs and your bed.
Sheet size for double bed
To start orienting yourself among the different sheet sizes, it is important to start from the beginning and have a clear understanding of the bed and mattress dimensions.
There are different sizes of double mattresses such as:
- the French size which is around 140x190 cm or 140x200 cm.
- the standard double measuring 160x190 cm or 160x200 cm.
- the king size, initially popular in the USA and now very popular also in Europe, with a size of 180x190 or 180x200 cm.
For all sizes, the mattress thickness varies depending on the model, from about 14 to 29 cm.
Furthermore, it is important to specify that the double size usually refers to a two-person bed, so two sleeping places.
So: how to choose the size for double bed sheets?
Let's hypothetically take the size of a standard double mattress (160x200 cm). Then consider that the sheet's drop (the length to hang down the sides) is around 40/50 cm.
Net of this information and considering that it is always advisable to opt for a larger rather than a smaller size, we can easily calculate the optimal size of our top sheet: 160 cm + 50 cm + 50 cm = 260 cm. For a total of 260x300 cm.
Correct fitted sheet sizes
This does not apply when choosing the size of fitted sheets because they must match the mattress dimensions. Regarding the height (or thickness) of the "cap" that wraps the mattress, especially in case of doubt, it is always better to opt for a larger size that allows all mattresses, including the thinnest and thickest, to fit the fitted sheet.
One-and-a-half bed sheet size
Zenoni & Colombi has created the perfect sheets to fit every type of size, including the modern one-and-a-half bed.
First of all, we distinguish the one-and-a-half bed from the double bed by the number of sleeping places, which in this format accommodates only one.
The standard one-and-a-half bed mattress measures 120x190 cm or 120x200 cm, that is 40 cm less than the double bed and 40 cm more than the single bed.
Here too, the same rules apply: the optimal size of the top sheet is around an excess of 40 cm per side which, added to the mattress size, will result in the correct width for the top sheet 120 cm + 40 cm + 40 cm = 200 cm.
In this case, we calculated a slightly smaller excess on the sides of the sheet compared to the double bed, as it is a single bed instead of two.
On the contrary, the size of fitted sheets must always match the reference mattress dimensions, possibly with a few extra centimeters.
Single sheet size
Regarding single sheet sizes, we always start the evaluation from the mattress dimensions which, in standard formats, alternate between 70x190/200 cm and 80x190/200 cm for smaller single beds, up to 90x190/200 cm. Also in this case, since it is a bed for single use, the sheet excess is proportionally reduced as the mattress width decreases. To ensure comfortable and quality rest, single top sheets have an average excess of 40 cm per side, sufficient to guarantee a good range of movement during sleep without compromising comfort.
As in other cases, the size of the fitted sheet with corners one size larger is precise and better, to allow the bed linen not to shift and to adhere effectively to the mattress during rest. We at Zenoni & Colombi always recommend a few extra centimeters, so it can perfectly fit both larger and modern mattresses as well as smaller and thinner ones.
Summary table of sheet sizes:
| Mattress dimensions | Size name | Fitted sheet size | Top sheet size |
|---|---|---|---|
| 70x190/200cm 80x190/200cm 90x190/200cm |
single | 90x200+30cm | 160x300cm |
| 120x190/200cm | one and a half size | 120x200+30 cm | 200x300 cm |
| 140x190/200 cm | French | 160x200+30 cm | 260x300 cm |
| 160x190/200 cm | double | 160x200+30 cm | 260x300 cm |
| 180x190/200 cm | king size | 180x200+30 cm | 260x300 cm |
Custom tailored sheets
The sheet size you are looking for is not among the offered models? No problem, if you are looking to buy out-of-size sheets, we at Zenoni & Colombi have thought of that too!
When are custom sheets needed?
Special size sheets can be needed on various occasions, some examples are:
- for your child's crib or cot, where sheet sizes vary from 50 x 80 cm for a mini crib, 60 x 120 cm for a traditional crib, up to 70 x 140 cm or 80 x 130 cm when using a large crib or convertible bed.
- for oversized or custom-made beds: if you need maxi, plus size, or special dimension sheets, Zenoni & Colombi will make them tailored for you.
