Three parts that are important to distinguish between them
A sheet covers the mattress. duvet cover wraps the blanket. pillowcase wraps the pillow. The names are similar, but each part has its own measure and function.
Sets do not always include the same parts. Check how many pillowcases there are, whether the sheet has elastic and whether the dimensions of the duvet cover match the blanket. A name like "king" or "double" varies between markets and brands.
Measurement of the mattress
Measure width and length in a straight line and not along the curve. Then measure the height, including a mattress topper if there is one. The depth of the sheet pocket should match the total height according to the manufacturer's definition.
For example, a mattress with a width of 160 cm and a length of 200 cm still requires a depth test: a sheet intended for a low mattress may come loose from a thick mattress. Do not choose based on the first two measurements only.
For more information on the subject: Israeli bedding sizes: sheets, duvet covers and pillowcases.
Measurement of the blanket and pillows
Spread out the blanket and measure it separately from the mattress. a duvet cover that is too large may leave blank fabric on the sides; A duvet cover that is too small may compress the filling. Check if there are corner connections and what the type of closure is.
Pillows also vary in size and volume. A pillowcase that is too narrow can change the feeling of a full pillow. Check if the size refers to the usable area or includes a decorative border.
before the first wash
Keep the label and size information. If the manufacturer provides shrinkage information, use it; There is no one percentage that is suitable for every fabric and every care.
Follow the washing and drying instructions. High heat is not a good way to "fit" a large duvet cover, because the result is unpredictable and may damage the fabric.
One measurement sheet that saves mistakes when buying
Write a title for each part: mattress, blanket and pillow. Next to the mattress, write down width, length and height; Next to the blanket and pillow, write width and length separately. If there are two different pillows, give each a row. This way you will not accidentally copy the size of the duvet cover into the field of the sheet in the order.
Also check the unit of measure. In products from abroad, the number may be in inches, and the dimensions of a flat sheet may describe the fabric itself and not the mattress. Before comparing, convert the data to the same unit. The Israel and USA tables on the site show separate examples, but the specification of the selected product is the one that should match your measurement.
What do you do when the measurements almost fit?
Do not assume that elastic or stretch will compensate for a size mismatch. For a fitted sheet, check the manufacturer’s stated mattress-height range. For a duvet cover, check that it has not been put on sideways. For a pillowcase, allow for the pillow’s depth too; do not compress the pillow just to close the case.
If the measurements on the package are not clear, ask for details before opening and washing. Check the exchange conditions of the product, because not everywhere you can return an item that has been opened or washed. Keep a photo of the measurements and label to compare in case of a change after care. The measurement is to choose a fit, not to guess how much the product will shrink in the future.
Numerical example: buy each part according to the item it covers
Suppose the house has a mattress 160 cm wide and 200 cm long, a blanket measuring 200 x 220 cm and two pillows measuring 50 x 70 cm. The shopping list includes three different sizes: a sheet for a mattress 160 x 200, a duvet cover for a blanket 200 x 220 and pillowcases for pillows 50 x 70. There is no one size that can be copied for all parts of the set.
If the mattress in the example is 28 cm high and has a 5 cm high mattress topper on it, the total height is 33 cm before additional layers. Look for a sheet that the manufacturer specifically states is suitable for this height. A figure such as "pocket depth 35 cm" is not necessarily a guarantee of suitability for a mattress with a height of 35 cm. This is a sample measurement only; The dimensions of your bed and the actual specifications are the determinants.
A practical comparison before choosing
| item | what are measured | A common mistake |
|---|---|---|
| Fitted sheet | Mattress: width, length and height | Forget the mattress topper |
| Duvet cover | Blanket: width and length | Copy the mattress size |
| Pillowcase | Pillow and pocket size | count decorative borders |
| flat sheet | The size of the fabric and the desired fit | Think the measure is a mattress measure |
Frequently asked questions
Why is a double set not suitable for a double bed?
Double is a general description. It is possible that the size of the sheet, its depth or the size of the duvet cover are different from what you have at home.
How do you convert inches to centimeters?
Multiply the number by 2.54. After the conversion, it is still necessary to identify whether the figure refers to the mattress, the fabric or the filling.
Is it worth buying a bigger one in advance because of washing?
Not based on guesswork. Check the size of the product intended for use and the manufacturer's information on handling and changing sizes.
Sources and scope
Source check: September 15, 2026. The information was checked against the sources listed here. The selection tips are designed to help you compare; They are not based on product tests we conducted ourselves.
By MyViro.
The content explains textile characteristics and is not the result of a product test in a laboratory. How we prepare our guides
