Bedding Info

Types of Bedding

Here's a quick explanation of different types of bedding and their uses:

Duvets and Doonas are thick, fluffy comforters filled with down, feathers, or synthetic materials, designed to be your main source of warmth. Duvets typically use removable covers for easy washing, while doonas (the Australian term) may be sewn shut. They're meant to replace traditional top sheets and blankets as an all-in-one sleeping solution.

Comforters are similar to duvets but are usually less fluffy, often decorative, and designed to be washed as a complete unit rather than using a separate cover. They're commonly used in American-style bedding setups with decorative pillows and coordinating sheets.

Bedspreads are large, decorative covers that extend all the way to the floor, covering the entire bed including pillows. They're primarily for daytime decoration and are typically removed before sleeping, serving more as room décor than functional bedding.

Quilts are multi-layered bedding with decorative stitching that holds the layers together. They provide moderate warmth and are often handmade or feature intricate patterns. Quilts can serve as both functional bedding and decorative pieces.

Blankets are single-layer coverings made from various materials like wool, cotton, or fleece. They provide additional warmth and can be used alone in warmer weather or layered with other bedding in colder months.

Throws are smaller, decorative blankets typically used for accent purposes on sofas or the foot of beds. They're perfect for light warmth while watching TV or reading, and add a stylish touch to room décor.

Coverlets are lightweight, decorative bed covers that typically reach just to the top of the bed skirt. They're often used in hotel-style bedding or as a lighter alternative to bedspreads, providing a polished look without the bulk.

 

Typical Australian bedding sizes:

Single - 92cm x 187cm (36" x 74") The standard size for children's beds and guest rooms. Single fitted sheets and mattresses are designed for one person.

King Single - 107cm x 203cm (42" x 80") A longer, slightly wider single bed that's popular for teenagers or adults who want more space than a regular single but don't need a double.

Double - 137cm x 187cm (54" x 74") The traditional size for two people, though it can feel cramped for couples. Also called a "full" size in some regions.

Queen - 153cm x 203cm (60" x 80") The most popular size for couples in Australia. Offers more width than a double and extra length, providing comfortable space for two adults.

King - 183cm x 203cm (72" x 80") A luxury size offering maximum space for couples. Significantly wider than a queen, ideal for those who want plenty of room to spread out.

Super King - 203cm x 203cm (80" x 80") The largest standard size available, offering extra width beyond a regular king. Less common but perfect for those wanting maximum sleeping space.

Important note: Australian sizes can vary slightly between manufacturers, and some brands offer "long" versions that add 10-15cm in length. Always check the exact measurements when buying sheets or mattresses, as a few centimeters can make a big difference in fit.

 

What does it mean when you see the term” OEKO-TEX on your bedding or clothing? 

OEKO-TEX is an international certification system that tests textiles and clothing for harmful substances to ensure they're safe for human health and the environment.

The most common OEKO-TEX standard you'll encounter is OEKO-TEX Standard 100, which tests finished textile products (like bedding, clothing, and fabrics) for over 100 potentially harmful chemicals including:

• Pesticides and heavy metals - Residues from farming and manufacturing processes

• Formaldehyde and other chemicals - Used in textile processing and finishing

• Dyes and colorants - That could cause allergic reactions or skin irritation

• pH levels - Ensuring they're within safe ranges for skin contact

The certification has different classes based on intended use - Class I is the strictest standard for baby products, while Class IV covers items like curtains and upholstery.

When you see OEKO-TEX certified bedding, it means the fabric has been independently tested and verified as free from harmful levels of these substances. This is particularly important for items like sheets and pillowcases that come into direct contact with your skin for 6-8 hours every night.

Other OEKO-TEX standards include ECO PASSPORT (for textile chemicals and dyes) and MADE IN GREEN (which adds social and environmental criteria to the safety testing).