Bedding Sizes Explained: A Quick Guide for US vs. EU Standards

If you’re an international shopper or retailer selling bedding across the US and EU markets, understanding the differences in bedding sizes is crucial. With varying standards between regions, it’s easy to get confused—and even easier to end up with the wrong size. This guide will break down the key differences between US and EU bedding sizes, helping you avoid costly returns and ensure a perfect fit every time.

Why Does Bedding Size Matter?

Bedding that doesn’t fit your mattress can lead to frustration, discomfort, and frequent adjustments during the night. Whether you’re shopping for sheets, duvet covers, or comforters, knowing the exact dimensions of your bed is essential. Plus, understanding the differences between US and EU sizing can save you time, money, and hassle—especially if you’re ordering online from international retailers.

1. Mattress Sizes: US vs. EU

Let’s start with the foundation: mattress sizes. The US and EU have different naming conventions and dimensions for their mattresses, which directly affect the size of bedding you’ll need.

US Mattress Sizes

• Twin (Single): 39” x 75”
  • Ideal for children’s rooms or guest bedrooms.
• Twin XL: 39” x 80”
  • Common in college dorms; offers extra length for taller individuals.
• Full (Double): 54” x 75”
  • Suitable for single sleepers who want more space or couples with limited room.
• Queen: 60” x 80”
  • The most popular size in the US; great for couples or single sleepers who like extra room.
• King: 76” x 80”
  • Offers ample space for couples; often used in master bedrooms.
• California King: 72” x 84”
  • Slightly narrower but longer than a standard King, ideal for taller individuals.

EU Mattress Sizes

• Single: 90 cm x 190 cm (35” x 75”)
  • Similar to a US Twin, but slightly narrower.
• Small Double: 120 cm x 190 cm (47” x 75”)
  • Falls between a US Twin and Full size.
• Double: 135 cm x 190 cm (53” x 75”)
  • Comparable to a US Full size.
• King: 150 cm x 200 cm (59” x 79”)
  • Close to a US Queen size, but slightly wider and longer.
• Super King: 180 cm x 200 cm (71” x 79”)
  • Larger than a US King, offering more width but slightly shorter length.

2. Sheet Sizes: What Fits Where?

Once you’ve identified your mattress size, the next step is finding sheets that fit properly. Here’s how US and EU sheet sizes compare:

US Sheet Sizes

• Fitted Sheets: Designed to snugly fit the mattress, with elastic all around. For example:
  • Queen Fitted Sheet: 60” x 80” x 12” (fits a 12” deep mattress).
  • King Fitted Sheet: 76” x 80” x 12”.
• Flat Sheets: Typically larger than fitted sheets to allow for tucking. For example:
  • Queen Flat Sheet: 90” x 102”.
  • King Flat Sheet: 108” x 102”.

EU Sheet Sizes

• Fitted Sheets: Often come in standard depths (e.g., 25 cm or 10”), so ensure your mattress height matches the sheet depth.
  • Double Fitted Sheet: 135 cm x 190 cm x 25 cm.
  • King Fitted Sheet: 150 cm x 200 cm x 25 cm.
• Flat Sheets: Generally larger than fitted sheets, similar to US standards.
  • Double Flat Sheet: 180 cm x 260 cm.
  • King Flat Sheet: 240 cm x 260 cm.

Pro Tip: Always check the pocket depth of fitted sheets before purchasing, as some mattresses may require deeper pockets.

3. Duvet Covers and Comforters: Size Matters

Duvet covers and comforters also vary between the US and EU. Here’s what you need to know:

US Duvet/Comforter Sizes

• Twin/Twin XL: 68” x 86”
  • Fits snugly on Twin and Twin XL beds.
• Full/Queen: 86” x 86”
  • Works well for both Full and Queen beds.
• King/California King: 102” x 90”
  • Provides full coverage for King and California King beds.

EU Duvet Sizes

• Single: 135 cm x 200 cm (53” x 79”)
  • Perfect for Single beds.
• Double: 200 cm x 200 cm (79” x 79”)
  • Fits Double and King beds.
• Super King: 220 cm x 240 cm (87” x 94”)
  • Offers generous coverage for Super King beds.

Key Difference: EU duvets are typically square or nearly square, while US comforters are more rectangular. This difference affects how the bedding drapes over the sides of the bed.

4. Pillow Sizes: Small Details, Big Impact

Pillow sizes also differ between the US and EU, which can affect how your pillowcases fit.

US Pillow Sizes

• Standard: 20” x 26”
  • The most common size for Twin and Full beds.
• Queen: 20” x 30”
  • Fits Queen beds and provides extra length.
• King: 20” x 36”
  • Ideal for King beds, offering maximum support.

EU Pillow Sizes

• Standard: 50 cm x 70 cm (20” x 28”)
  • Similar to a US Standard pillow.
• Square (Continental): 65 cm x 65 cm (26” x 26”)
  • Popular in Europe for decorative purposes.

Pro Tip: If you’re mixing and matching pillows, ensure your pillowcases match the pillow size to avoid awkward bunching or slipping.

5. How to Avoid Returns and Confusion

To minimize returns and ensure a smooth shopping experience, follow these tips:

• Measure Your Mattress: Always measure your mattress (width, length, and depth) before purchasing bedding.
• Check Product Descriptions: Look for detailed size information in product descriptions, especially when shopping internationally.
• Know the Conversion: Familiarize yourself with metric-to-imperial conversions (e.g., 1 inch = 2.54 cm) to avoid confusion.
• Consider Oversized Options: If you’re unsure about sizing, opt for oversized bedding, which provides extra coverage and flexibility.
• Read Reviews: Customer reviews often highlight sizing issues, so take them into account before making a purchase.

Conclusion

Understanding the differences between US and EU bedding sizes is essential for international shoppers and retailers alike. By knowing the exact dimensions of your mattress, sheets, and duvets, you can ensure a perfect fit and avoid unnecessary returns. Whether you’re shopping for a cozy Twin bed or a luxurious Super King, this guide will help you navigate the world of bedding sizes with confidence.

So, the next time you’re browsing for bedding, keep these size differences in mind—and enjoy a perfectly fitted bed that feels just right!

Stay tuned for our next blog post, where we’ll explore “How to Style Your Bed Like a Pro: Tips for Layering, Textures, and Accessories.”