measurements of double size mattress

What Are the Measurements of a Double Size Mattress?

The standard measurements of a double size mattress in Australia are approximately 138 cm wide × 188 cm long. This is the mattress size itself, rather than the overall dimensions of the bed frame.

In millimetres, this is approximately 1,380 × 1,880 mm, while the equivalent imperial measurement is around 54 × 74 inches.

A Double mattress sits between a King Single and Queen in Australian sizing. It offers considerably more width than a Single or King Single, while taking up less floor space than a Queen.

In simple terms, a Double mattress is a practical choice for solo adults, teenagers, guest rooms and compact bedrooms, although two adults may find it relatively snug for everyday sleeping.

Quick Facts

• Standard Australian Double mattress: approximately 138 × 188 cm
• Width: approximately 138 cm
• Length: approximately 188 cm
• Metric measurement: approximately 1,380 × 1,880 mm
• Approximate imperial measurement: 54 × 74 inches
• Wider than a Single and King Single
• Shorter and narrower than a Queen
• Suitable for solo sleepers, teenagers and guest bedrooms
• Can accommodate two adults, although space is relatively limited
• Bed-frame dimensions are usually larger than mattress dimensions
• Mattress thickness varies between manufacturers

Why Are Double Mattresses So Popular?

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

A Single mattress can feel restrictive for adults, while a Queen may take up more floor space than necessary in a compact bedroom. A Double sits comfortably between these options.

It can be particularly useful for:

• Teenagers
• Young adults
• Solo sleepers
• Guest bedrooms
• Apartments
• Smaller master bedrooms
• Rental properties
• Holiday homes
• Spare rooms
• Couples who prefer a cosy sleeping arrangement

A Double mattress provides more width than a Single while maintaining the same approximate 188 cm length.

For someone who wants additional sleeping space without moving to a Queen, this can be a particularly practical option.

Standard Double Mattress Dimensions in Australia

The measurements of double size mattress products can vary slightly between manufacturers, so always check the exact specifications before purchasing a frame, fitted sheet or mattress protector.

The standard Australian guide of 138 × 188 cm is the most useful starting point.

Double Mattress vs Single

A Double mattress is significantly wider than a Single.

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

Both are around the same length, but the Double provides approximately 46 cm more width.

That extra space can make a noticeable difference for an adult sleeper.

For teenagers who are outgrowing a Single, a Double can provide more room without requiring the additional length of a King Single.

Double Mattress vs King Single

This comparison is particularly useful because both sizes are popular for teenagers and smaller bedrooms.

A King Single is approximately 107 × 203 cm.

A Double is approximately 138 × 188 cm.

Therefore:

• A Double is approximately 31 cm wider
• A King Single is approximately 15 cm longer
• A Double offers more side-to-side space
• A King Single offers more legroom

The better option depends on whether width or length is more important.

For a taller teenager or adult, the King Single's extra length can be valuable. For someone who wants more room to move sideways, the Double may be preferable.

Double Mattress vs Queen

A Queen mattress is approximately 153 × 203 cm.

Compared with a Double, a Queen provides:

• Approximately 15 cm more width
• Approximately 15 cm more length

That extra space can make a considerable difference for couples.

A Double can accommodate two adults, but each person has approximately 69 cm of mattress width when the space is divided evenly.

For everyday couple use, a Queen is generally a more comfortable option if the bedroom has enough room.

A Double remains an excellent choice where floor space is limited or where the mattress is primarily intended for one person.

How to Choose the Right Double Mattress

1. Measure Your Bedroom

Before purchasing, measure the room carefully.

Remember to account for:

• Wardrobes
• Bedside tables
• Doors
• Windows
• Drawers
• Walking paths
• Heating and cooling units
• Other furniture

A mattress may fit physically, but the finished bedroom should still feel comfortable to move around.

2. Check the Bed Frame

A Double mattress requires a compatible Double bed frame or base.

Do not assume every frame labelled “Double” has exactly the same external dimensions.

A frame may be larger because of:

• Headboards
• Side rails
• Footboards
• Upholstery
• Storage drawers
• Decorative details
• Integrated shelving

Always check both the mattress dimensions and external frame dimensions.

3. Consider Mattress Thickness

The width and length of a Double mattress are relatively standard, but thickness varies considerably.

A mattress can be thicker because of:

• Pocket springs
• Foam layers
• Latex
• Pillow tops
• Euro tops
• Hybrid construction
• Comfort layers

Thickness is especially important when buying fitted sheets.

4. Think About Your Sleeping Position

Side sleepers may prefer a mattress with sufficient cushioning around pressure points, while back or stomach sleepers may prefer a different firmness level.

There is no universally correct mattress firmness.

Comfort, body shape, sleeping position and personal preference all influence the best choice.

5. Check Bedding Dimensions

Make sure fitted sheets and mattress protectors are designed for an Australian Double mattress.

Do not confuse the mattress size with quilt or doona dimensions.

Bedding is intentionally larger than the mattress so that it can cover the sleeping surface and provide appropriate drape.

Benefits & Use Cases

Space Efficient

A Double provides substantially more sleeping space than a Single without taking up as much room as a Queen.

Excellent for Solo Adults

It offers generous width for someone who sleeps alone.

Suitable for Teenagers

The additional width can make a Double a comfortable upgrade for a growing teenager.

Practical for Guest Rooms

A Double can accommodate one guest comfortably and provide an option for couples staying occasionally.

Useful in Apartments

Its relatively compact footprint makes it practical where bedroom space is limited.

Flexible Styling

Double beds provide enough surface area for layered bedding, decorative cushions, throws and a statement bedhead.

Good for Holiday Homes

A Double can be a practical option for secondary bedrooms where space needs to be used efficiently.

House of Isabella Recommendations

When styling a Double bed, keep the proportions balanced.

Because the mattress is smaller than a Queen or King, oversized furniture can sometimes dominate the room.

Consider pairing your Double bed with:

• A proportional bedhead
• Compact bedside tables
• Layered bedding
• A long pillow
• A textured throw
• A small bedside lamp
• Natural timber accents
• Soft neutral colours
• A practical rug

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

Buy Now, Pay Later options including Afterpay and Zip can provide additional flexibility on eligible purchases.

The Florabelle Collection, Zaffero, Emac & Lawton, Gallery Home, Café Lighting & Living and OneWorld Collection can also provide contextual inspiration when coordinating bedroom furniture, lighting and decorative accessories.

Trends for 2025 (Australia)

Multifunctional Storage

Storage beds remained particularly useful for smaller bedrooms, allowing the space underneath the mattress to become practical storage.

Warm Timber

Natural timber frames and bedside furniture created warmth and worked beautifully with neutral bedding.

Upholstered Bedheads

Soft upholstered bedheads provided comfort while creating a visual focal point.

Rounded Details

Curved bedheads, rounded bedside tables and softer furniture profiles helped create a more relaxed bedroom aesthetic.

Layered Bedding

Rather than perfectly matching every element, Australian bedrooms increasingly used complementary colours and different textures.

Warm Neutrals

Cream, oatmeal, beige, taupe and soft brown created calm foundations that could easily be refreshed with seasonal accents.

Natural Textures

Linen-look fabrics, cotton, woven accessories and timber continued to create a relaxed, tactile atmosphere.

Boutique-Hotel Influence

Layered pillows, comfortable throws, statement lighting and carefully selected bedside furniture brought a refined hotel-inspired feeling into residential bedrooms.

Styling Advice for a Double Bed

Keep Furniture Proportional

A compact Double bed benefits from appropriately sized bedside tables and lighting.

Avoid oversized furniture that leaves very little circulation space.

Use Vertical Space

A taller bedhead or artwork above the bed can create visual impact without using additional floor space.

Layer Bedding Carefully

Start with the main bedding, then add sleeping pillows, a long pillow or decorative cushion and a throw.

You do not need a large number of cushions to make a Double bed look finished.

Choose a Controlled Palette

Two or three complementary colours can create a more sophisticated result than many competing shades.

Add Texture

Mix smooth bedding with a knitted throw, woven accessories or textured cushions.

Use Lighting to Create Atmosphere

A compact bedside lamp can provide practical reading light while adding warmth to the room.

How Much Room Does a Double Bed Need?

The mattress itself occupies approximately 138 × 188 cm, but the bedroom needs additional space for circulation.

As a broad planning guide, a room around 3.2 × 3.4 metres can provide a practical starting point for a Double bed, depending on the frame and furniture layout.

This is not a fixed requirement.

A smaller room may work with a compact frame and minimal furniture, while a larger room can comfortably accommodate generous bedside tables, storage and decorative pieces.

Always plan around the actual external dimensions of your chosen bed frame.

Common Questions

What are the measurements of a Double size mattress in Australia?

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

What are Double mattress dimensions in millimetres?

The commonly used Australian measurement is approximately 1,380 × 1,880 mm.

Is a Double mattress bigger than a King Single?

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

Is a Double mattress bigger than a Queen?

No. A Queen is approximately 153 × 203 cm, making it both wider and longer than a Double.

Can two adults sleep on a Double mattress?

Yes, although it is relatively compact for two adults. Each person has approximately 69 cm of width if the mattress is divided evenly.

Is a Double mattress good for a teenager?

Yes. Its additional width makes it a comfortable option for many teenagers, particularly where bedroom space allows.

Does a Double bed frame measure 138 × 188 cm?

Not necessarily. The mattress is approximately 138 × 188 cm, while the overall bed frame can be larger depending on its design.

What size fitted sheet fits a Double mattress?

Choose an Australian Double fitted sheet and check the stated mattress dimensions and pocket depth before purchasing.

The Finishing Touch

Understanding the measurements of double size mattress products makes it much easier to choose the right bed frame, bedding and bedroom furniture.

For Australian homes, the standard Double mattress is approximately 138 × 188 cm. It provides a useful middle ground between a Single or King Single and the larger Queen size.

For solo adults, teenagers, guest bedrooms and compact homes, it can offer an excellent combination of comfort and space efficiency. For couples who share a bed every night, a Queen may provide more generous personal space if the room allows.

Once the mattress dimensions are confirmed, the rest of the bedroom becomes easier to plan. Choose appropriately scaled furniture, allow comfortable circulation space and use layered bedding, warm lighting and natural textures to create a bedroom that feels both practical and beautifully considered.

Related Glossary Terms

• Double Bed Dimensions Australia
• Double Bed Mattress Dimensions cm
• Double Bed Size in Centimetres
• King Single Bed Dimensions
• Queen Size Mattress Measurement cm
• Bedroom Bedding

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.