A Guide to UK Mattress Sizes

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In the UK, bed sizes are based on the size of the mattress they hold. While the mattress sizes are standardised, the actual dimensions of the bed frames can vary depending on their style and shape. This can lead to some confusion, especially if you’re not sure if you need to buy your bed frame and mattress together.

In this article, I’ll break down the various bed and mattress sizes available in the UK, and provide some helpful tips to make your shopping experience easier.

Standard UK mattress sizing

Here are the standard mattress sizes in the UK:

  • Standard single: 90 cm x 190 cm
  • Standard double: 135 cm x 190 cm
  • Standard king: 150 cm x 200 cm
  • Super king: 180 cm x 200 cm

EU sizing (IKEA):

And here are the European mattress sizes in the UK:

  • IKEA/European single: 90 cm x 200 cm
  • IKEA/European double: 140 cm x 200 cm
  • IKEA/European king: 160 cm x 200 cm

Do IKEA still use EU sizing in 2024?

Yes, IKEA UK still uses some non-standard mattress sizes, which can make it more difficult to find compatible bed frames and bedding.

However, they do offer a wide range of bed frames designed to fit their specific mattress sizes, so it’s important to check the dimensions carefully and choose a bed frame that matches the size of your IKEA mattress.

Most other big mattress brands like these below, use regular UK sizing:

  • Nectar
  • Emma Sleep
  • Eve Sleep
  • DreamCloud
  • Una Mattress
  • Simba Sleep
  • Hypnos
  • Silentnight

What about kids beds/mattresses?

If you’re looking for a bed that’s ideal for younger children or smaller individuals, a small single bed might be the perfect option for you. These beds typically measure 75cm wide and 190cm long, or about 2 feet 6 inches wide and 6 feet 3 inches long in imperial dimensions.

Small single (2’6”) bed frames and mattresses are a great choice for smaller bedrooms where space is tight, as well as for use as a guest bed. They can also work well as a transitional bed for young children moving from a cot to their first ‘grown-up’ bed.

Check out my best kids mattress guide here.

Smaller beds

A single bed and mattress, which measure 90cm wide and 190cm long, or 3 feet wide and 6 feet 3 inches long in imperial dimensions, are a great option for both children and adults. Single (3’0”) beds are wider than ‘small singles’ and provide a good amount of room for a single sleeper.

This is the most common size for children’s beds, including bunk beds. Single beds are suitable for growing children and can accommodate any growth spurts, from toddler years to teenage years. They are also great for adults who are looking for a compact bed that can fit in smaller rooms.

So, if you’re looking for a bed that’s best for one person, a single bed and mattress might just be the perfect solution. Let me know if you have any questions or need help finding the right bed for your needs!

A single bed and mattress can be a great choice for both children and adults. Measuring 90cm wide and 190cm long, or 3 feet wide and 6 feet 3 inches long in imperial dimensions, single (3’0”) beds are wider than ‘small singles’ and provide a good amount of room for a single sleeper.

In fact, single beds are the most common size for children’s beds, including bunk beds. They’re also great for growing children, as they can accommodate any growth spurts from toddler years to teenage years.

Small double

A small double bed and mattress might be just what you need. In metric dimensions, a small double bed and mattress measure 120cm wide and 190cm long, which is equivalent to 4 feet wide and 6 feet 3 inches long in imperial dimensions.

A small double (4’0”) bed, also known as a ‘Queen’ or a ‘Three Quarter’ bed, is wider than a single bed but smaller than a double bed. It provides plenty of space for one person and can also work for two people, although two adults may find it a little bit snug. This makes it a great option for smaller bedrooms and guestrooms where a standard double bed won’t quite fit.

When space is at a premium, small double beds that maximize storage (such as ottoman or divan bases) are an ideal choice. So, if you’re looking for a bed that’s best for one person and for use in smaller bedrooms, a small double bed and mattress might be the perfect solution. Let me know if you have any questions or need help finding the right bed for your needs!

Standard double

The standard double bed (4’6”) is the most common and widely available size for all bed types in the UK. It’s designed to sleep two adults comfortably and provides enough space for a good night’s sleep without taking up too much floor space in your bedroom.

So, if you’re looking for a bed that can comfortably sleep two people and is widely available in the UK, a standard double bed and mattress might be the perfect solution. Let me know if you have any questions or if there’s anything else I can help you with!

King size

A ‘King Size’ (5’0″) bed has a length of 6’6″, as opposed to the 6’3″ of a regular ‘double’ bed and mattress. The extra length may make a difference in comfort for those with longer statures.

King-sized beds and mattresses are comfortable, but they really only work in rooms with plenty of floor space. They’re ideal for stretching out on and sleeping comfortably, but they can take up a lot of room.

Super King size

Measuring in at 180cm wide and 200cm long, or 6 feet wide and 6 feet 6 inches long in imperial units, the super king size bed is the largest of all standard UK sizes.

With plenty of room to spread out and get comfortable, the super king (6’0”) sized bed is perfect for couples who prefer their own space. And nothing beats a lazy Sunday morning spent enjoying time with your family all squeezed in together on a super king size bed.

California King

Although California king beds are more readily available in the US, you can still find them in the UK – for example Nectar often sell them on these shores.

Compared to a traditional king bed, a California king bed and mattress are 72 inches (183 cm) in width and 84 inches (213 cm) in length. Because of this, it may be a good choice for those with longer legs. A California king bed may not be the greatest option for couples who value privacy while they sleep due to its narrow breadth. Feel free to ask anything else on your mind regarding California king beds.

Can you go even bigger?!

It’s true that king- and queen-sized mattresses have seen a surge in popularity in recent years, but you can actually go EVEN BIGGER.

A ‘giant’ bed is one that is far bigger than the most common mattress size, the super king. The following are some of the most common measurements you’ll find – though they’re quite rare in the UK:

  • Wyoming King: 84” x 84” (213 x 213 cm)
  • Texas King: 98” x 80” (249 x 203 cm)
  • Alaskan King: 108” x 108” (274 x 274 cm)
  • Double King: 152” x 80” (386 x 203 cm)
  • Family Bed: 114” x 84” (289 x 213 cm)

These enormous beds come in a wide range of shapes and sizes, from square to rectangular and everything in between. You may need to shop around to get the appropriate king-size bed, as these dimensions are not conventional and may not be easily obtainable at all places.

Interestingly, there are specialist websites in the USA that sell these ‘giant’ beds, such as here.

The nearest thing we have in the UK is probably OddMattress.

Choosing the Right Mattress: By Size

Your mattress selection should take into account the various stages of your life, each with its own unique sleeping requirements. What do I mean by this? Well, childrenmight benefit from mattresses designed for their changing bodies, while infants require smaller mattresses designed for their cots.

Mattress sizes for adults should take into account the individual’s height, weight, and sleeping arrangements (alone or with a spouse). For people who have trouble getting in and out of bed, we have a number of options for adjustable mattresses and beds.

We carry mattresses in all sizes, from single to king to California king to California king to California king to super king. You may find the perfect mattress by thinking about the person who will be sleeping on it and what their tastes and sleeping habits are like.

It’s crucial to think about the individual’s demands while selecting a mattress, whether you’re shopping for yourself, a child, or a loved one. Don’t be shy about asking questions or requesting assistance if you’re having trouble making a mattress selection.

Don’t Forget: Size and Fit

You should start by determining the size of the bed frame you either own or plan to buy. If you want your mattress to fit  well in your bed frame, you should get one that is the same size as the frame. To be sure the mattress you’re contemplating will fit perfectly in your bed frame, you should take precise measurements of both.

Consider the space you have available. Is a smaller bed more practical given the available floor space? It’s important to remember that bed frames are often larger than mattresses, but divan bed bases are always the same size as the corresponding mattress size.

Don’t overlook the importance of good taste! One of the most noticeable aspects of your bedroom is the bed, so you should think about how much room you have for it and how it will look in the room as a whole when making your selection.

Don’t Overlook your Partner…!

When shopping for a mattress, it’s quite key to think about how many people will be using the bed at once… I.e. if you and your partner are constantly waking each other up, it’s best to invest in the largest bed you can afford to avoid sleep disturbances.

According to the National Bed Federation, there should be adequate room for two people to lie next to one another without touching (with their arms behind their heads and elbows out). Surprisingly, each occupant of a typical double bed has only about as much personal space as in a baby cot! A king or superking mattress could be a better fit for the two of you if yuo discover that a double is too small.

You and your partner should make the decision to purchase a mattress and bed together. Getting a good night’s sleep depends on finding a mattress that suits both of your needs in terms of comfort and support. Find a comfortable mattress that suits both of your needs by talking it over….!

What about bed frames?

You can have a mattress with a bed frame, like a divan, or you can get it on its own. Even though many people choose to purchase their mattress and bed frame independently, it is still important to make sure that both the mattress and the bed frame are the right size for your bedroom.

Sizes can vary somewhat between brands, so it’s vital to double check the measurements before making a purchase. Avoid buying a mattress that is either too little or too large for your bedroom, or one that doesn’t fit well on your bed frame.

In addition to the required measurements, the design of the bed frame is also crucial. Since your mattress will rest flat on a divan base, you won’t lose any floor space to the sides of your bed. Be aware that bed frames made of wood or metal may require slightly additional floor space around the perimeter of your mattress.

Consider the extra space requirements of a cloth bed frame before making your purchase. Beds with a rounded headboard or footboard, for instance, will protrude from the wall and necessitate additional room around the bed. Depending on the architecture of your room, this may make it difficult to open wardrobe doors or restrict your movement.

I don’t tend to cover bed frames on WhatMattress, but am planning to add reviews of them soon. In the mean time, check out my best kid’s storage bed review.

Are mattress and bed sizes the same?

No. Sizes of beds and mattresses are similar but not identical.

Bed dimensions include not just the sleeping surface i.e. slats, but also the frame’s top and bottom rails, as well as any headboards and footboards. Mattress size, on the other hand, refers to the dimensions of the mattress itself, rather than the dimensions of the bed frame. Make sure the mattress and bed frame are the right size for each other before you buy.

Conclusion: Mattress Sizes

Choosing the right bed and mattress can be a daunting task, especially with the numerous options available. Whether you’re looking for a bed for your child’s bedroom, a space-saving solution for your guest room, or a luxurious bed for your master bedroom, it’s important to consider your individual needs, preferences, and budget.

By understanding the different bed and mattress sizes available in the UK, you can make an informed decision and find a bed that’s comfortable, supportive, and suits your space. Remember to consider the size of your room, the style of bed frame, and whether you’ll be sleeping alone or with a partner. And, if you’re unsure about which size or style of bed to choose, don’t hesitate to seek advice from experts or friends and family who have recently gone through the same process.

At the end of the day, investing in a good quality bed and mattress is an investment in your health and well-being. So, take the time to research and shop around, and don’t be afraid to try out different mattresses and bed frames before making a final decision. With a little patience and persistence, you can find the perfect bed that will give you the best night’s sleep for years to come.

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How we reviewed this article:

Edit History:

Our experts continually monitor the mattress & sleep tech space, and we update our reviews & articles when new information becomes available.

  • 28th April 2023
    Current Article - By Carrie Taylor
  • 14th June 2023
    Checked & Reviewed - By Jean Marshall
  • 28th April 2023
    Copy Edited - By Carrie Taylor
  • 29th December 2023
    Reviewed - By Carrie Taylor

WhatMattress has strict sourcing guidelines and we try to rely on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations where possible.

  1. https://www.ikea.com/gb/en/rooms/bedroom/mattress-size-guide-pub63d34391
  2. https://www.ikea.com/gb/en/rooms/bedroom/mattress-size-guide-pub63d34391
  3. https://www.wyomingkingbeds.com/
  4. https://oddmattress.co.uk/extra-large-mattresses/

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