double bed dimensions australia

What Are Double Bed Dimensions Australia?

The standard double bed dimensions Australia shoppers will most commonly encounter are approximately 138 cm wide × 188 cm long. In millimetres, this is 1,380 × 1,880 mm. These measurements refer to the mattress itself, rather than the complete bed frame.

In simple terms, an Australian Double sits between a Single or King Single and a Queen. It provides considerably more width than a Single while taking up less floor space than a Queen, making it a practical option for teenagers, solo adults, guest bedrooms and compact homes.

Exact measurements can vary slightly between manufacturers, so always check the product specifications before buying a mattress, frame or bedding.

Quick Facts

• Standard Australian Double mattress: approximately 138 × 188 cm
• Width: approximately 138 cm
• Length: approximately 188 cm
• Millimetres: approximately 1,380 × 1,880 mm
• Imperial: approximately 54 × 74 inches
• Larger than: Single and King Single in width
• Smaller than: Queen and King
• Best suited to: Solo sleepers, teenagers, guest rooms and compact bedrooms
• Important: The overall bed frame will usually be larger than the mattress

Why Are Double Beds So Popular?

The main reason Australians choose a Double bed is its balance of sleeping space and room efficiency.

A Double mattress gives a solo sleeper considerably more space to move than a Single or King Single without requiring the larger bedroom footprint of a Queen.

It can also be a practical guest-room choice. A Double provides comfortable accommodation for one adult and can accommodate two people for shorter stays, although many couples will find a Queen more comfortable for everyday use.

For smaller Australian bedrooms, apartments and rooms with several pieces of furniture, the relatively compact footprint can make a significant difference.

Standard Double Bed Dimensions Australia

Width

The standard Australian Double mattress is approximately 138 cm wide.

This provides around 46 cm more width than a standard Single mattress, which is approximately 92 cm wide.

Length

The standard Double mattress is approximately 188 cm long.

This is important for taller sleepers because a Double has the same approximate length as a standard Single and is shorter than a King Single or Queen.

Thickness

Mattress thickness is not fixed by the Double mattress footprint.

Different mattresses can have substantially different heights depending on their construction, including foam, pocket springs, latex, hybrid and pillow-top designs.

Thickness matters when selecting fitted sheets, mattress protectors and bed frames.

Double Bed Dimensions Australia Compared With Other Sizes

These are useful standard measurements, but individual manufacturers can vary slightly. For example, some suppliers list Double mattresses around 137–138.5 cm wide or slightly different lengths.

Double vs Single Bed

The key difference between a Double and Single is width.

A standard Single is approximately 92 × 188 cm, while a Double is approximately 138 × 188 cm.

Both are generally around the same length, but the Double provides around 46 cm of additional width.

This makes a Double particularly appealing for a solo adult who wants more freedom to move while still keeping the bedroom relatively compact.

Double vs King Single

A King Single is approximately 107 × 203 cm, while a Double is approximately 138 × 188 cm.

The Double is therefore:

• Around 31 cm wider
• Around 15 cm shorter

For taller solo sleepers, a King Single can provide valuable additional legroom. For sleepers who prioritise width, a Double offers substantially more space from side to side.

Double vs Queen

A Queen mattress is approximately 153 × 203 cm.

Compared with a Double, a Queen is approximately:

• 15 cm wider
• 15 cm longer

This difference can be significant for couples.

A Double can be a sensible space-saving choice, while a Queen is generally more comfortable when two adults will share the bed regularly.

Is a Double Bed Suitable for Couples?

Yes, a Double can accommodate two adults, but comfort depends on sleeping habits, body size and personal preference.

With a mattress approximately 138 cm wide, each person would have around 69 cm of width if the space were divided equally.

For occasional guest use, this may be perfectly adequate. For everyday sleeping, many couples prefer a Queen because it provides approximately 15 cm more width and 15 cm more length.

If your bedroom can comfortably accommodate a Queen, it is worth comparing both options before deciding.

How Much Room Does a Double Bed Need?

Understanding double bed dimensions Australia is only the first step when planning a bedroom.

The mattress occupies approximately 138 × 188 cm, but you need additional space around it for comfortable movement and furniture.

Consider room for:

• Walking beside the bed
• Bedside tables
• Wardrobes
• Bedroom doors
• Drawers
• Cleaning
• Making the bed
• Other furniture

As a general planning principle, allow comfortable circulation around the bed rather than designing the room around the mattress footprint alone.

The complete bed frame can also add several centimetres or considerably more depending on its construction.

Mattress Dimensions vs Bed Frame Dimensions

This distinction is essential when shopping.

Mattress dimensions describe the sleeping surface.

Bed-frame dimensions describe the complete external footprint of the furniture.

A Double mattress may measure approximately 138 × 188 cm, while a finished bed could be larger because of:

• Headboards
• Side rails
• Footboards
• Upholstered surrounds
• Storage drawers
• Decorative frames
• Structural components

Always check the external dimensions of a Double bed frame before purchasing if bedroom space is limited.

How to Choose a Double Bed Frame

1. Confirm the Mattress Size

Start with the mattress specifications and make sure the frame is designed for the same Australian Double dimensions.

2. Measure the Room

Measure the available floor area and mark out the approximate 138 × 188 cm mattress footprint.

Then account for the frame and surrounding furniture.

3. Consider Storage

A Double storage bed can be particularly useful in smaller bedrooms.

Drawers or lift-up storage can provide space for spare bedding, clothing and seasonal items without requiring another large cabinet.

4. Choose the Right Style

Timber frames create natural warmth, upholstered frames offer softness and metal frames can provide a more contemporary appearance.

5. Think About Bed Height

The height of the frame and mattress together will influence how easy the bed is to access and how large it feels within the room.

Benefits & Use Cases

Ideal for Solo Adults

A Double gives a solo sleeper plenty of room without the footprint of a Queen.

Great for Teenagers

It can provide extra space as teenagers grow and may remain useful into adulthood.

Guest Bedrooms

A Double offers comfortable accommodation without requiring a large room.

Compact Master Bedrooms

Where a Queen feels too large, a Double can help preserve valuable floor space.

Apartments

The relatively compact footprint can suit apartment bedrooms and smaller homes.

Flexible Furniture Planning

The smaller footprint can leave more room for desks, wardrobes, drawers and other bedroom furniture.

Cost-Conscious Choice

A Double can be a practical alternative to a larger mattress when additional sleeping space is not essential.

House of Isabella Recommendations

When considering double bed dimensions Australia, think about how the room will function every day.

For a guest bedroom, a Double can be an excellent balance between comfort and practicality. Add a compact bedside table, soft lighting and layered bedding to create a welcoming space without overcrowding the room.

For a teenager's bedroom, consider a Double with integrated storage to maximise usable floor space.

A timber frame can create a warm, natural look, while an upholstered design can introduce softness and a more luxurious feel.

Collections such as Florabelle Collection, Zaffero, Emac & Lawton, Gallery Home, Café Lighting & Living and OneWorld Collection can provide useful contextual inspiration when coordinating bedroom furniture and decorative accessories.

House of Isabella Australia offers distinctive designs, a large in-stock catalogue, fast delivery Australia-wide, East and West Coast warehouses and Australian-based customer care.

Buy Now, Pay Later options including Afterpay and Zip can also provide flexibility when planning a bedroom update.

Trends for 2025 (Australia)

Multifunctional Storage

Double beds with drawers or integrated storage remain useful for compact bedrooms where every centimetre matters.

Warm Timber

Natural and warm timber finishes create a relaxed atmosphere and work particularly well with neutral bedding.

Upholstered Bedheads

An upholstered bedhead can give a Double bed a more substantial and comfortable appearance.

Soft Curves

Rounded bedheads, curved bedside furniture and softer furniture profiles can make smaller bedrooms feel more inviting.

Warm Neutral Bedding

Cream, beige, oatmeal, taupe and earthy tones create a calm foundation that can be refreshed with seasonal accents.

Natural Textures

Linen-look fabrics, woven details, timber and tactile throws add depth without making a compact room feel busy.

Boutique-Hotel Styling

Layered bedding, balanced bedside lighting and restrained decorative accessories can give a Double bedroom a polished, hotel-inspired atmosphere.

Styling Advice

Use the Bed as the Focal Point

Even though a Double is smaller than a Queen or King, it can still anchor the entire room.

Choose a bedhead or wall feature that gives the bed visual importance.

Keep Bedding Proportionate

Avoid overwhelming the mattress with excessive cushions and oversized accessories.

A few well-chosen cushions and a folded throw can provide plenty of texture.

Use Vertical Space

Wall-mounted lighting and artwork can free up bedside surfaces and make a compact room feel more spacious.

Choose a Compact Bedside Table

A smaller bedside table can provide storage without restricting walking space.

Add a Mirror

A strategically positioned mirror can reflect light and help create a greater sense of openness.

Keep the Palette Cohesive

A restrained palette of warm neutrals can make a smaller bedroom feel calm and coordinated.

Double Bed Bedding Guide

When shopping for bedding, remember that the dimensions of the mattress are not the same as the dimensions of the bedding.

A fitted sheet should be designed for an Australian Double mattress and should also accommodate its mattress depth.

The quilt or doona is larger than the mattress because it needs to cover the sleeping surface and drape over the sides.

Always check the manufacturer's exact dimensions rather than relying solely on the word "Double", particularly when purchasing imported bedding.

Common Questions

What are the double bed dimensions Australia?

A standard Australian Double mattress is approximately 138 cm wide × 188 cm long.

What is a Double bed size in millimetres?

The standard measurement is approximately 1,380 × 1,880 mm.

Is a Double bed bigger than a King Single?

A Double is approximately 31 cm wider, but a King Single is approximately 15 cm longer.

Is a Double bed bigger than a Queen?

No. A Queen is approximately 153 × 203 cm, while a Double is approximately 138 × 188 cm.

Can two adults sleep on a Double bed?

Yes, but it can feel relatively snug for everyday use. A Queen generally provides more comfortable space for two adults.

Is a Double bed suitable for a teenager?

Yes. A Double can provide generous sleeping space for a teenager and remain useful as they grow.

Are Double bed frames all the same size?

No. The mattress footprint is generally around 138 × 188 cm, but frame dimensions vary depending on the headboard, rails, storage and overall construction.

The Finishing Touch

Understanding double bed dimensions Australia makes choosing the right mattress and bedroom furniture much easier.

The key measurement to remember is approximately 138 × 188 cm for the mattress. From there, consider the complete frame footprint, room circulation, mattress thickness and bedding requirements.

A Double is a practical choice for solo adults, teenagers, guest rooms and compact bedrooms. It provides noticeably more width than a Single while taking up less space than a Queen.

Measure the room carefully, check the exact manufacturer's specifications and choose furniture that complements the available space. With the right proportions, even a compact Double bedroom can feel comfortable, stylish and beautifully considered.

Related Glossary Terms

• Double Bed Dimensions
• Double Bed Mattress Size
• Dimensions of Beds
• Dimensions of Queen Size Mattress
• Queen Bed Width
• Mattress King Size Measurements

Disclaimer

Brand and collection names mentioned in this glossary are included purely for descriptive and contextual purposes. House of Isabella Australia is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or associated with the brands mentioned, and all trademarks remain the property of their respective owners.