Bed & Mattress Size Guide
So you’re in the market for a new mattress or bed?
There’s a lot to consider when buying a new bed but the size is undoubtedly one of the most important factors. That’s why our experts have created this bed and mattress size guide, covering everything from how big each mattress is to the sleepers they’re best suited to.
We also explain the difference between European and UK sizes and offer advice on choosing the perfect bed frame for your mattress.
UK Bed & Mattress Sizes
Let’s start with the basics.
The tables below show the different mattress and bed sizes available. We’ve provided measurements in both imperial (feet and inches) and metric (centimetres):
Standard bed and mattress sizes
The most common mattress and bed sizes, in UK standard measurements.
| BED/MATTRESS SIZE | IMPERIAL | METRIC |
| Small Single mattress | 2'6" x 6'3" | 75cm x 190cm |
| Single mattress | 3' x 6'3" | 90cm x 190cm |
| Small Double mattress | 4' x 6'3" | 120cm x 190cm |
| Double mattress | 4'6" x 6'3" | 135cm x 190cm |
| King Size mattress | 5' x 6'6" | 150cm x 200cm |
| Superking mattress | 6' x 6'6" | 180cm x 200cm |
| Superking Zip and Link mattress | 6' x 6'6" | 180cm x 200cm |
You may notice that ‘queen size’ is not included in this table. This is because ‘queen size’ is an American size term, and is slightly bigger than the UK king size mattress, measuring 152cm x 203cm (or 60" x 80").
Non-standard mattress and bed sizes
We’ll explain who these more unusual size mattresses and beds will benefit a little later.
| BED/MATTRESS SIZE | IMPERIAL | METRIC |
| Small Single Short | 2'6" x 5'9" | 75cm x 175cm |
| Single Short | 3' x 5'9" | 90cm x 175cm |
European mattress and bed sizes
European mattresses are suitable for a European-sized bed frame, such as an IKEA bed frame. They have different dimensions than standard-sized UK mattresses.
| BED/MATTRESS SIZE | IMPERIAL | METRIC |
| European Single | 3' x 6'6" | 90cm x 200cm |
| European Double | 4'7" x 6'6" | 140cm x 200cm |
| European King | 5'3" x 6'6" | 160cm x 200cm |
Shop all European mattresses here
Adjustable mattress and bed sizes
These mattresses are suitable for your adjustable bed of a corresponding size.
| BED/MATTRESS SIZE | IMPERIAL | METRIC |
| Adjustable Small Single | 2'6" x 6'6" | 75cm x 200cm |
| Adjustable Single | 3' x 6'6" | 90cm x 200cm |
Cot bed sizes
The following sizes are ideal for baby cot beds.
| BED/MATTRESS SIZE | IMPERIAL | METRIC |
| Cot Mattresses | 2'4" x 4'7" | 70cm x 140cm |
| Continental Cot Mattresses | 2' x 4' | 60cm x 200cm |
If you’re curious about mattress depth, check out our guide on 'How to measure mattress depth'. We answer our customers’ frequently asked questions about mattress depth and why you should know your mattress depth before buying a new mattress.
Now you know all about the different bed and mattresses sizes available, why not read on to find out which size is best for you?
Choosing the right mattress size for you: a checklist
When deciding which size mattress and bed you need, you should consider the following factors, along with the size of the room you have of course!
You should take into consideration:
- Who the bed or mattress is for
- How tall you are
- Your available space
- Whether you will be sharing the bed
We ask the questions you need to answer to buy the correct bed and mattress for you below.
1. Who is the bed or mattress for?
Over your lifetime, your sleeping needs change. Because of this, you may find that you need to alter your sleeping environment.
When choosing a mattress, you should consider who you are buying it for. For example, babies will need specific cot mattresses, smaller in size than adult mattresses. We also stock a range of mattresses that cater specifically to children. Adults may require smaller or larger-sized mattresses depending on their height, weight and build, comfort preferences, and whether they sleep with a partner. We offer a range of adjustable mattresses and beds for those who may find getting in and out of bed a little difficult.
We stock a range of mattress sizes, from a small single size, right up to super king size, and a wide variety of sizes in-between!
Taking into consideration who the mattress is intended for will enable you to buy a mattress best suited to their needs.
2. How tall are you?
How tall you are may influence what size mattress and bed you choose. We offer a selection of beds and mattresses in king size, superking and European sizes, all of which are 6'6" in length, perfect for the taller individual.
Similarly, you may find that a smaller bed and mattress better suits your needs. Should you require a customised shorter or longer length for either your mattress or your bed, we would be delighted to discuss your requirements with you. Just get in touch!
3. How much space do you have?
It is important to take into account the size of both your room and bed frame when choosing a mattress, as this can impact what size mattress you choose.
Be sure to check what size bed frame you currently have, or would like. An equivalent size mattress should fit the bed frame. It is always a good idea to measure the exact dimensions of your bed frame and check this against the dimensions of the mattress you would like to buy, to be certain.
Thinking about the size of your room is important too. Would a larger bed better suit your bedroom? Or do you only have room for a smaller-sized bed? Bed frames can sometimes be a little bigger than mattresses, whereas a divan bed base will have the same dimensions as the equivalent size mattress.
Want your bed to take centre stage? As one of the key features of your bedroom, taking into consideration how much space you have available for your bed is important!
4. Who will you share the bed with?
If you sleep with a partner you may wish to consider a bigger-sized bed. Being disturbed by your sleeping partner is one of the most common causes of a bad night’s sleep. If you can, you should consider buying the biggest mattress you can afford to reduce your likelihood of being disturbed at night, helping you to experience a great night's sleep.
The National Bed Federation recommends being able to lie side by side, with your arms behind your head, elbows out, without touching. Did you know that a standard double bed gives each person the same space that a baby has in a cot?! You may find that a double-sized mattress may not be big enough for both of you. A more comfortable size may therefore be a king size or superking mattress.
Choosing your mattress and bed should be a joint decision between you and your partner since each person has individual preferences in terms of comfort and support. This is the only way you can be certain that both of you are happy with your choice!
Now you should know which bed and mattress size is perfect for you!
An explanation of the different mattress sizes
Below, we outline who the most popular mattress and bed sizes are most suitable for.
What size is a small single bed and mattress?
Small single mattresses measure 2'6" x 6'3" (75cm x 190cm). They’re slightly narrower than a standard single mattress, so they’re great for younger children or occasional guests. Younger children will usually feel cosier and more comfortable in a small single bed. These are also good for smaller rooms including guest rooms, or where two young children have to share (and bunk beds aren't a practical solution).
What size is a single bed and mattress?
Single beds and mattresses usually measure 3' x 6'3" (90cm x 190cm) which makes them perfect for solo sleepers, box rooms, or guest rooms. They're a great investment for your children and teens, offering years of quality sleep.
What size is a small double bed and mattress?
A small double bed and mattress measures 4' x 6'3" (120cm x 190cm). They’re is a savvy option for couples with limited space - provided you don't mind sleeping close together.
These beds are perfect for growing youngsters or if your kids like to stretch out. It's also the perfect size for a guest bed. This is because they won’t take up too much space but can comfortably fit two adults.
What size is a double bed and mattress?
The most popular bed size in the UK, the standard double bed, is a great fit for two adults. At 4'6" x 6'3" (135cm x 190cm), a bed and double mattress will fit well into a standard bedroom without overcrowding. They're also ideal for visitors if you have a spacious guest room, or if you want to give a little more space to a teenager.
What size is a king-size mattress size?
King size beds and mattresses measure 5' x 6'6" (150cm x 200cm), which makes them ideal if you want additional room to stretch out. If you have the space and the budget, we recommend choosing a king-size bed over a double because they offer much more room per person.
With the extra 10cm length, the king size is also a great choice if you're tall, increasing both comfort levels and that all-important leg room.
What size is a super king-size bed and mattress?
Superking size beds and mattresses measure 6' x 6'6" (180cm x 200cm). Their larger dimensions make them the largest standard UK bed size and they’re growing in popularity.
If you have plenty of floor space (and value your space in bed), it's definitely worth investing in a luxury super king. As well as making a visual statement in the bedroom due to its impressive size, there's no better bed to really spread out in and enjoy a good night's sleep.
Their larger size also makes them well suited to families with young children, who may sneak into their parents’ bed during the night!
Advice for choosing the right size bed frame
When shopping for your new mattress, you’ll have the option of buying it with a frame (for example, as a divan bed) or separately. Many people choose to buy their mattress and bed frame separately, sometimes from different manufacturers.
If you choose to do this, it’s really important to check the dimensions of your chosen bed frame and mattress, not only to make sure it fits your room but also to check it can accommodate your mattress.
In addition, you should also consider the style of the bed frame you’re choosing. A divan base is the most space-saving option, as your mattress sits directly on top of it. Wooden and metal bed frames take up a few more centimetres around the edge of your mattress, so keep that in mind when you’re making your selection.
Fabric bed frames can take up a lot more of your bedroom depending on the style you choose. For example, a roll-top, sleigh-style bed won’t sit flush against the wall, so will take up more floor space which, depending on your layout, could make opening wardrobe doors tricky.
We hope this guide helped you in your decision to choose the best mattress or bed size for you. If you have any more questions, please get in touch with our team, who are happy to help!
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