Double vs queen mattress size comparison Australia

Double vs Queen Mattress: Which Size Is Right for Your Bedroom?

May 12, 2026by Rennie Fu

Choosing between a double vs queen mattress is not only about mattress size. It is about how you sleep, how much space your bedroom has, who uses the bed, and whether the mattress will suit you for the next few years.

A double mattress is usually the smarter choice for solo sleepers, teenagers, smaller rooms, apartments, and guest bedrooms. A queen mattress gives more room for couples, taller sleepers, and anyone who wants extra comfort in a main bedroom.

In Australia, a double mattress is usually 138 cm wide and 188 cm long . A queen mattress is usually 153 cm wide and 203 cm long . If you want to compare every standard Australian bed size before buying, read our full Australian bed sizes guide .

Quick Answer: Double or Queen Mattress?

For most couples, a queen mattress is the better long-term choice because it gives more width and length for everyday sleep.

For one person, a double mattress can be more practical. It gives more sleeping space than a single mattress while keeping the bedroom easier to move around in.

The simple rule:

  • Choose a double mattress if you want to save floor space.
  • Choose a queen mattress if comfort and shared sleeping room matter more.
  • Choose based on your bedroom layout, not mattress size alone.

Double vs Queen Mattress Size Comparison

Feature

Double Mattress

Queen Mattress

Australian size

138 cm × 188 cm

153 cm × 203 cm

Best for

Solo sleepers, teens, guest rooms

Couples, taller adults, main bedrooms

Sleeping space

Comfortable for one adult

Comfortable for two adults

Room fit

Better for smaller bedrooms

Better for medium and larger bedrooms

Price

Usually lower

Usually higher

Bedding cost

Usually cheaper

Slightly more expensive

Long-term use

Good for single sleepers

Better for couples and future use

Main drawback

Can feel tight for two people

Needs more bedroom space

 

Double mattress in a small bedroom layout

What Is a Double Mattress?

A double mattress sits between a king single and a queen mattress. It gives one person more room to sleep comfortably without taking up as much floor space as a queen.

A   double mattress is a good fit for:

  • Solo adults
  • Teenagers
  • Smaller bedrooms
  • Studio apartments
  • Guest bedrooms
  • Spare rooms
  • Budget-friendly bedroom setups

A double mattress can fit two adults, but it may feel tight if both people sleep on their side, move during the night, or prefer more personal space. For occasional use, it can work. For nightly shared sleep, a queen mattress is usually more comfortable.

If you already have a double bed setup, make sure your base matches the mattress properly. You can pair the mattress with a suitable double bed frame to keep the room balanced and practical.

Queen mattress in a main bedroom setup

What Is a Queen Mattress?

A queen mattress is wider and longer than a double mattress. It is one of the most common choices for Australian main bedrooms because it gives a good balance between comfort and bedroom space.

A   queen mattress is a good fit for:

  • Couples
  • Taller sleepers
  • Main bedrooms
  • Solo sleepers who want more room
  • People who share the bed with a pet
  • Long-term mattress upgrades

The extra length is useful for taller adults, while the added width makes a noticeable difference for couples. It gives each person more room to change position without disturbing the other sleeper as much.

For a complete bedroom setup, match your mattress with one of our queen bed frames so the mattress is properly supported.

Main Differences Between Double and Queen Mattresses

1. Sleeping room

The biggest difference is usable sleeping space.

A double mattress gives one person comfortable room. A queen mattress gives two people more space to sleep side by side. The extra width may look small in measurements, but it can change how the mattress feels in daily use.

If you often feel close to the mattress edge, wake your partner when moving, or need more room around your shoulders and hips, queen is likely the better option.

2. Bedroom layout

A double mattress leaves more space around the room. This can make a smaller bedroom feel less crowded and easier to use.

A queen mattress works better when the room can still fit bedside tables, drawers, wardrobes, and walking space. A mattress that is too large can make even a nice bedroom feel cramped.

Before choosing, measure:

  • Mattress space
  • Bed frame size
  • Walking clearance
  • Wardrobe door clearance
  • Drawer opening space
  • Bedside table width
  • Power point position

Do not measure only the mattress. A bed frame can add extra width and length.

3. Comfort for couples

For two adults, queen is usually the better choice.

A double mattress gives each person less space, which can make the bed feel narrow. This may be fine for short stays or occasional use, but it is not ideal for every night.

A queen mattress gives more personal space, which can help reduce partner disturbance and make sleep feel less restricted.

4. Comfort for single sleepers

For one person, both sizes can work well.

A double mattress is practical if you want comfort without taking up too much room. A queen mattress is better if you like stretching out, changing positions, or sleeping with a pet.

Single sleepers with larger bedrooms may still prefer queen because it feels more spacious and premium.

5. Price and value

A double mattress usually costs less than a queen mattress. Double sheets, mattress protectors, quilts, and bed frames may also be cheaper.

A queen mattress usually costs more, but it can offer better long-term value if it becomes your main bed or if two people will use it regularly.

If the price difference is small and your bedroom has enough space, queen is often the safer investment.

Double vs queen mattress room fit checklist

Double vs Q ueen Mattress: Room Fit Checklist

Use this checklist before buying.

Question

Choose Double If…

Choose Queen If…

Is the room small?

Yes, space is limited

No, there is enough walking space

Is it for one person?

Yes

Yes, if they want extra room

Is it for two adults?

Only for occasional use

Yes, for regular use

Do you need bedside tables?

Double leaves more room

Queen works if the room is wider

Are you tall?

May feel short

Better option due to extra length

Is it a guest room?

Good for compact rooms

Better for premium guest rooms

Is it your main bedroom?

Only if space is tight

Usually the better choice

A good mattress should fit the person and the room. If the bed blocks storage or makes the room hard to walk through, the larger size may not be the better option.

Best Mattress Size by Room Type

Room Type

Recommended Size

Why

Small bedroom

Double mattress

Keeps more usable floor space

Teen bedroom

Double mattress

Gives more room than a single without overcrowding

Studio apartment

Double mattress

Easier to fit with other furniture

Guest room

Double or queen mattress

Depends on room size and guest needs

Main bedroom

Queen mattress

Better for comfort and daily use

Couple’s bedroom

Queen mattress

Gives more shared sleeping space

Larger bedroom

Queen mattress

Better balance of comfort and layout

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Right Size

Choose a double mattress if:

A double mattress is the better choice if space and budget matter most.

It suits you if:

  • You sleep alone
  • You are furnishing a smaller room
  • You are buying for a teenager
  • You need a mattress for a guest room
  • You want more room for desks, wardrobes, or storage
  • You already own a double bed frame
  • You want a lower-cost setup

A double mattress is practical, easy to style, and suitable for many Australian homes where room size is limited.

Choose a queen mattress if:

A queen mattress is the better choice if comfort is the main priority.

It suits you if:

  • You sleep with a partner
  • You are taller
  • You move around during sleep
  • You want more personal space
  • You are buying for the main bedroom
  • You want a mattress that will suit future needs
  • You sometimes share the bed with a pet or child

For most couples, queen should be treated as the minimum comfortable size for everyday use.

Ready to choose? Browse Levede queen mattresses and compare by type, thickness and price.

Think about mattress height too

Width and length are not the only measurements to check. Mattress height can also change how the bed feels.

A thicker mattress can make the bed easier to get in and out of, but it may also sit too high with some bed frames. If you are buying a double or queen mattress online, check the full dimensions before ordering.

Comfort level matters too. If you are not sure whether you need soft, medium, firm, or extra firm support, read our mattress firmness scale guide before choosing your final mattress.

Check your existing bedding

If you are upgrading from a double mattress to a queen mattress, you may also need:

  • Queen sheets
  • Queen quilt
  • Queen mattress protector
  • Queen bed frame
  • Queen bed base
  • New headboard

To protect your new mattress from spills, sweat, and daily wear, add a  mattress protecto r. For a fitted option, you can also choose the Dreamz fitted waterproof mattress protector

Double vs Queen Mattress for Couples

If two adults will sleep on the mattress every night, a queen mattress is usually the better option.

A double mattress can work for couples who:

  • Have a very small room
  • Need a short-term setup
  • Do not move much during sleep
  • Are comfortable sleeping close together

However, if comfort matters, a queen mattress gives better personal space. It is especially helpful if one person is taller, sleeps hot, or changes position often.

If pressure relief and partner movement are important, you may also want to compare memory foam mattresses as they can help reduce motion transfer and provide a cushioned sleep feel.

Double vs Queen Mattress for Guest Rooms

For a guest room, the right choice depends on how often the room is used.

A double mattress is usually enough for occasional guests, especially if the room is small. It also leaves more space for luggage, side tables, or a small desk.

A queen mattress gives guests more comfort and works better if couples often stay overnight. It can also make the room feel more complete if the space allows it.

Final Verdict: Should You Buy a Double or Queen Mattress?

If you want a mattress for one person, a small bedroom, a teenager, or a guest room, a double mattress is a smart and practical choice.

If you want a mattress for two adults, a main bedroom, or long-term comfort, a queen mattress is usually the stronger option.

The best choice is the one that fits your room without making it feel crowded and gives the sleeper enough space to rest properly.

Ready to choose? Compare our double mattress and queen mattress options, then pair your mattress with the right mattress protector bed frame, and bedding for a complete bedroom setup.

FAQs

What is the main difference between a double and queen mattress?

The main difference is size. A queen mattress is wider and longer than a double mattress, which gives more sleeping room. A double mattress saves more floor space and is usually better for smaller rooms.

Is a double mattress big enough for two adults?

A double mattress can fit two adults, but it may feel tight for nightly use. It is better for occasional shared sleep or guest rooms. For regular couple use, a queen mattress is usually more comfortable.

Is a queen mattress worth it over a double?

A queen mattress is worth it if you have enough room and want more comfort. It is especially worth it for couples, taller sleepers, and main bedrooms.

Which is better for a small bedroom, double or queen?

A double mattress is usually better for a small bedroom because it leaves more floor space for furniture, storage, and walking room.

Which mattress size is best for couples?

A queen mattress is usually the best minimum size for couples. It gives more width and length than a double mattress while still fitting many Australian bedrooms.

Can I use double bedding on a queen mattress?

No. Double bedding will usually be too small for a queen mattress. If you upgrade to queen, you will likely need queen sheets, a queen mattress protector, and a queen quilt.

Should I buy a double or queen mattress for a guest room?

Choose a double mattress for a compact guest room. Choose a queen mattress if the room is larger or if couples often stay overnight.

Is a double mattress good for tall people?

A double mattress may feel short for taller sleepers. A queen mattress usually gives more length, making it a better choice for taller adults