Choosing the right bedding size affects both comfort and the look of the bedroom. A fitted sheet that is too small slips off the mattress, while an incorrectly sized duvet cover leaves unsightly wrinkles. It all starts with one simple measurement: the exact dimensions of your mattress.
This guide summarizes standard sizes in France, from baby beds to King Size XL, with the recommended dimensions for each bedding item. You will find everything you need to dress your bed with confidence.
| Mattress | Fitted sheet | Duvet cover | Flat sheet |
|---|---|---|---|
| 90 x 200 cmsingle bed | 90 x 200 cm | 140 x 200 or 200 x 200 cm | 180 x 290 cm |
| 120 x 200 cmXL single bed | 120 x 200 cm | 200 x 200 cm | 200 x 290 cm |
| 140 x 200 cmdouble bed | 140 x 200 cm (or 140 x 190) | 200 x 200 or 240 x 220 cm | 240 x 300 cm |
| 160 x 200 cmQueen Size | 160 x 200 cm | 240 x 220 or 260 x 240 cm | 270 x 300 cm |
| 180 x 200 cmKing Size | 180 x 200 cm | 260 x 240 or 280 x 240 cm | 270 x 300 cm |
| 200 x 200 cmKing Size XL | 200 x 200 cm | 280 x 240 or 300 x 240 cm | 300 x 310 cm |
| 60 x 120 or 70 x 140 cmbaby bed | 60 x 120 or 70 x 140 cm | 100 x 135 cm | Not used |
| 90 x 190 or 80 x 200 cmchildren's bed | 90 x 190 or 80 x 200 cm | 140 x 200 or 200 x 200 cm | 180 x 290 cm |
How to read bedding dimensions
Dimensions are always expressed as width followed by length. Width refers to the bed's horizontal measurement, and length to its vertical measurement. A size of “160 x 200 cm” therefore indicates a mattress 160 cm wide and 200 cm long.
Each bedding item follows its own logic. The fitted sheet hugs the mattress, the duvet cover depends on the duvet, and the flat sheet is chosen larger so it can be tucked around the bed.
The fitted sheet, sized to fit the mattress
The fitted sheet matches the exact dimensions of the mattress. For a 140 x 200 cm bed, you need a 140 x 200 cm fitted sheet, no more and no less. A model that is too large will bunch up, while one that is too small will come off during the night.
The duvet cover, sized to fit the duvet
The duvet cover size depends on the duvet it covers, not directly on the mattress. The same bed width often accommodates two sizes, depending on whether you prefer a discreet drop or generous coverage on both sides.
The flat sheet, larger for tucking in
A flat sheet should be noticeably wider and longer than the mattress. This extra fabric allows you to tuck it under the mattress and achieve a neatly made, taut bed. Its use is optional, but it completes a classic bedding set.
Standard bed sizes and their bedding
Here are the bedding dimensions to remember for each common bed size. First identify the size of your mattress, then note the corresponding measurements.
Single bed: 90 x 200 cm
A typical size for a child's bedroom or studio apartment, the single bed is easy to dress.
- Fitted sheet: 90 x 200 cm.
- Duvet cover: 140 x 200 cm for a slight drop, or 200 x 200 cm for more room.
- Flat sheet: 180 x 290 cm for a neatly tucked-in bed.
XL single bed: 120 x 200 cm
A little wider than a single bed, this size is suitable for teenagers and sleepers who like extra space.
- Fitted sheet: 120 x 200 cm.
- Duvet cover: 200 x 200 cm for a generous drop.
- Flat sheet: 200 x 290 cm.
Standard double bed: 140 x 200 cm
This is the most common double bed in France. The choice of duvet cover depends here on the number of sleepers.
- Fitted sheet: 140 x 200 cm, or 140 x 190 cm if your mattress is slightly shorter.
- Duvet cover: 200 x 200 cm for one person, 240 x 220 cm for two to prevent pulling the duvet.
- Flat sheet: 240 x 300 cm.
Queen Size bed: 160 x 200 cm
Highly popular, the Queen Size offers genuine comfort for two without overcrowding the room.
- Fitted sheet: 160 x 200 cm.
- Duvet cover: 240 x 220 cm for a 40 cm drop, or 260 x 240 cm for a more enveloping effect.
- Flat sheet: 270 x 300 cm.
King Size bed: 180 x 200 cm
The King Size focuses on width and spaciousness. It calls for large bedding sizes.
- Fitted sheet: 180 x 200 cm.
- Duvet cover: 260 x 240 cm, or 280 x 240 cm for an extra-wide blanket.
- Flat sheet: 270 x 300 cm.
XL King Size bed: 200 x 200 cm
The most generous family bed requires the largest bedding dimensions on the market.
- Fitted sheet: 200 x 200 cm.
- Duvet cover: 280 x 240 cm or 300 x 240 cm.
- Flat sheet: 300 x 310 cm.
Children's and baby beds
Smaller sizes prioritize safety and a precise fit. For a 60 x 120 cm or 70 x 140 cm baby cot, the fitted sheet matches these dimensions and the duvet cover is limited to 100 x 135 cm, without a flat sheet. For a 90 x 190 cm or 80 x 200 cm children's bed, choose a 140 x 200 cm duvet cover and a 180 x 290 cm flat sheet.
Choosing the right pocket depth for your fitted sheet
Width and length are not enough: a fitted sheet also has a pocket depth, meaning the depth of the flaps that wrap around the sides of the mattress. A pocket that is too short will not stay in place, while one that is too deep will hang loose.
A 25 to 30 cm pocket depth fits most mattresses. For mattresses over 30 cm thick, or if you add a mattress topper, choose a 40 cm pocket depth. Measure your mattress height before purchasing for a perfect fit.
Pillowcase and bolster cover sizes
Pillowcases complete the set and follow their own standard sizes. The 50 x 70 cm rectangular pillowcase remains the most common French format, while the 65 x 65 cm square pillowcase is designed for square pillows. For a bolster pillow, choose a pillowcase suited to its length, generally 140 or 160 cm. Our pillowcase size guide explains each case in detail.
Which fabric should you choose once you have found the right size?
Once you have determined the size, the next step is choosing the fabric. Cotton percale is popular for its cool, matte feel, while cotton sateen is known for its luminous softness. Cotton is available in every size, from single beds to King Size beds. Discover our percale fitted sheets and cotton sateen fitted sheets to dress your bed.
To take things further, our dedicated guides help you refine your choice for each item: fitted sheet size, duvet cover size, and bed linen set size.
Your questions about bedding sizes
What size fitted sheet for a 160x200 bed?
For a 160 x 200 cm Queen Size bed, the fitted sheet measures exactly 160 x 200 cm. Check the pocket depth according to the thickness of your mattress.
What size duvet cover for a 140x190 bed?
For a 140 x 190 cm or 140 x 200 cm double bed, choose a 200 x 200 cm duvet cover if you sleep alone, or a 240 x 220 cm cover for two people to provide better overhang.
Can you use a duvet that is larger than your bed?
Yes, a duvet that is slightly larger than the mattress is actually recommended. It provides overhang on both sides and reduces pulling when two people sleep under it.
How do you measure a fitted sheet?
Measure the width and length of your mattress, then its height to determine the pocket depth. The fitted sheet should match the width and length exactly, with a pocket depth equal to or greater than the thickness of the mattress.
What size bedding is suitable for a King Size bed?
For a 180 x 200 cm King Size bed, choose a 180 x 200 cm fitted sheet, a 260 x 240 cm duvet cover, and a 270 x 300 cm flat sheet. The difference between Queen Size and King Size is explained in detail in our guide.