Australian Quilt Sizing Guide: Finding the Perfect Fit

Getting quilt sizing right seems straightforward until you're standing in a store or browsing online, faced with dimensions that don't quite match your bed. Australian quilt sizes follow general standards, but variations exist between manufacturers, and the relationship between bed size and ideal quilt size isn't always one-to-one.

This guide clarifies Australian quilt sizing, explains when to size up or down, and helps you choose quilts that look and feel right on your bed. Whether you're buying your first quilt or replacing an old favourite, understanding sizing ensures satisfaction with your purchase.

Standard Australian Quilt Sizes

The following dimensions represent standard Australian quilt sizes. Note that manufacturers may vary slightly (usually within 10cm), so always check specific product dimensions before purchasing.

Matching Quilts to Bed Sizes

Standard Mattress Dimensions

Understanding your mattress size helps determine optimal quilt sizing:

• Single mattress: 92 x 187 cm
• King Single mattress: 107 x 203 cm
• Double mattress: 137 x 187 cm
• Queen mattress: 153 x 203 cm
• King mattress: 183 x 203 cm
• Super King mattress: 203 x 203 cm

Calculating Quilt Overhang

A well-fitted quilt should overhang the mattress edges by approximately 25-35 cm on each side. This creates a balanced, bed-made appearance and prevents the quilt from pulling off during sleep. The overhang calculation is simply: (Quilt width - Mattress width) ÷ 2.

For example, a standard queen quilt (210 cm wide) on a queen mattress (153 cm wide) provides about 28 cm of overhang on each side—a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing amount.

When to Size Up

Several scenarios call for choosing a larger quilt than your mattress size might suggest:

Deep Mattresses

Modern mattresses, especially pillow-top and memory foam options, can be significantly deeper than traditional mattresses. A mattress that's 35-40 cm deep needs more quilt fabric to drape properly to the sides. Consider sizing up if your mattress is unusually thick.

Sharing a Bed

Couples often find standard-sized quilts too small, especially if one partner tends to wrap themselves up. A king quilt on a queen bed provides extra fabric that reduces blanket-stealing disputes and ensures both sleepers stay covered.

Personal Preference

Some people simply prefer a more generous quilt drape. There's nothing wrong with choosing a larger size for the cocooning comfort of extra fabric. Just ensure you have sufficient storage and a washing machine that can handle the larger size.

When Standard Sizing Works

Standard sizing typically works well for:

• Single sleepers on appropriately sized mattresses
• Standard-depth mattresses (around 25-30 cm)
• Those who prefer minimal overhang for a cleaner look
• Smaller bedrooms where excessive drape might overwhelm the space

Cover Compatibility

If you're buying a quilt to fit existing quilt covers (or vice versa), ensure dimensions match closely. A quilt that's significantly smaller than its cover will bunch up inside, while one that's too large will feel lumpy and may not fit properly.

Standard sizes should match between quilts and covers from reputable manufacturers, but always verify dimensions. Some cheaper covers run small, and some European or American imports use different sizing conventions.

Children's Bedding Considerations

For children's beds, single quilts are usually appropriate. However, children's cot sizes and toddler beds often require specific smaller quilts that may not follow standard adult sizing. Always measure the child's bed and check product dimensions rather than assuming "single" will fit.

As children grow, king single becomes popular because it provides extra length for growing bodies while remaining space-efficient. The extra length (220 cm vs 210 cm for standard single) accommodates teenagers and tall children comfortably.

Non-Standard Beds

Antique and Vintage Beds

Older beds, particularly antiques, may not conform to modern sizing standards. Measure your mattress carefully and look for the closest standard size that provides adequate coverage. You may need to choose based on width while accepting less-than-ideal length, or vice versa.

Custom and Oversized Beds

Super king is the largest standard Australian quilt size. For beds larger than super king, you may need custom-made quilts or creative solutions like using two quilts side by side. Some premium manufacturers offer custom sizing at additional cost.

Adjustable Beds

Split king adjustable beds (two separate king single mattresses that adjust independently) present unique challenges. Consider two king single quilts rather than one king quilt, allowing each side to adjust without disturbing bedding on the other side.

Practical Considerations

Washing and Care

Larger quilts require larger washing machines. Before purchasing a super king or oversized quilt, ensure you can wash it at home or budget for professional cleaning. A quilt that's too large for your machine will require frequent laundromat trips or dry cleaning.

Storage

Off-season quilts need storage space. Larger sizes require more room, which may be limited in apartments or smaller homes. Consider compression storage bags if space is tight, though be aware that excessive compression can damage some fill materials.

Understanding Australian quilt sizing takes the guesswork out of purchasing. Measure your bed, consider your preferences for drape and coverage, and check specific product dimensions before buying. With the right size quilt, your bed will look beautiful and you'll enjoy comfortable, well-covered sleep.