Bed Sheet Dimensions and Sizes: Australian Standard
Finding the perfect sheets for your needs is one of the final steps when purchasing a new bed. Bed sheets are just as important to your sleep comfort as the bed that you choose. Although Australian bed sheets are of standard size, the brand may have slight variations.
Check out our Best Bed Sheets Guide to find the brand that best suits your needs. This guide will explain how to select the right size for your bed. It will also tell you about flat sheets vs fitted sheets and thread counts.
Australian Standard Bed Sheet Dimensions and Sizes
1. Determining bed sheet size and fit
Before you go shopping, measure the mattress size and depth and the mattress topper. Standard sheets are suitable for most mattresses. However, if your mattress is very thick or you have a thick mattress topper, you will need sheets that are labelled as “deep” or extra deep. Some sheet brands include the depth of their sheets in their measurements while others do not. There is no guarantee the bottom sheet will work because of variations in brands. It is important to choose a brand with a generous return policy if the sheets don’t fit your bed. For more information, please refer to the article on best bed sheets linked above.
Fitted sheets that are the right fit will be taut and require a little tug to get them in place. If you find it difficult to pull the corner of the mattress over the pocket, then the sheet may be too tight. You shouldn’t have to fight the sheet to get the pocket over the mattress. The squared-off corner seams are the pockets. Fitted sheets should have a pocket depth that is at least 2 to 3 inches deeper than the mattress. This will allow you to keep the sheet in position and tuck in the corners.
2. Flat vs. Fitted Bed Sheets
- Flat sheets
The flat sheets sit between your comforter and blankets, on top of the mattress. Although not everyone sleeps with a flat sheet, they help regulate your body’s temperature during the night.
- How to determine the right flat sheet size
The flat sheet should have enough length to cover the corners of the bed and tuck between the mattress box springs. You also need to ensure that the sheet does not look too large as it will impact your sleep and how the bed looks.
- Fitted Sheets
Fitted sheets have an elasticized lining that fits snugly around your mattress. This sheet protects your mattress and keeps it clean over time. It also provides you with a comfortable lining while you sleep.
- How to determine the right fitted sheet size
The pocket depth, width and length of a fitted sheet are all measured. The pocket of your fitted sheet may not be deep-sufficient for your mattress if it does not stay in place.
3. Sheet Sets Vs. Individual Pieces
- Sheet Sets
Value is the top reason for buying a sheet set. If you buy a sheet set, you will get a pillow case, a fitted and flat sheet at a lower price than buying each separately. This may not be the best option for those who prefer to sleep with a fitted sheet. This option is best suited for those who want the whole package.
- Individual Pieces
Two reasons are good for purchasing individual pieces:
- Some people, as mentioned above prefer to sleep with a topsheet. You can buy individual pieces and only purchase what you need.
- The bottom sheet is the one that bears your weight every night. Fitted sheets may need to be replaced more frequently than flat sheets due to wear.
According to our research, linen sheets tend to wear out faster than other types of sheets. Percale or sateen can also thin if your partner has rough feet. It is great to be able to replace only the sheets you need if you like to sleep with these types.
Pillowcases should also be changed periodically as they stain faster than sheets. Some people like to purchase additional pillowcases to replace them more often than their other bedding.
4. Calculating the best thread count based on Australian measurements
The thread count is based on the number of threads used to create a sheet. The higher the thread counts, the finer the sheet material. In Australia, the thread count is usually determined by how many threads are within 10 square centimetres.
Although higher thread counts are more luxurious, a thread count that is too high can be uncomfortable. The quality of the thread is what matters the most. A sheet with lower-quality fabric, but a higher thread count, will be less luxurious.
When shopping for sheets, keep these tips in mind.
