When buying a new bed or mattress, understanding the various UK bed sizes is essential. You might wonder, “What’s a standard size?” or “Should I buy my bed frame and mattress together?” or even “How does a king size bed measure up against a standard double?”
This guide aims to clear up any confusion. In the UK, beds are sized based on the mattress they fit. While mattress sizes are standard, bed frame dimensions can differ due to design and style.
This often leads to mix-ups. It’s important to remember that bed frames generally have different measurements than mattresses. Always check the specific dimensions of a bed frame, as they’re usually slightly bigger than the mattress.
Most beds and mattresses sold in the UK are made using imperial measurements but are marketed in their metric equivalents. This guide will help you choose the right size for your needs, making your purchase stress-free.
| BED/MATTRESS SIZE | DIMENSIONS (IMPERIAL) | DIMENSIONS (METRIC) |
|---|---|---|
| Small Single | 2’6″ x 6’3″ | 75 x 190cm |
| Single | 3’0″ x 6’3″ | 90 x 190 cm |
| Small Double (Queen) | 4’0″ x 6’3″ | 120 x 190cm |
| Double | 4’6″ x 6’3″ | 135 x 190cm |
| King Size | 5’0″ x 6’6″ | 150 x 200cm |
| Super King Size | 6’0″ x 6’6″ | 180 x 200cm |
| Emperor | 6’6″ x 6’6″ | 200 x 200cm |
| Large Emperor | 7’0″ x 7’0″ | 215 x 215cm |
Choose the right mattress size for your bed with ease. Make sure the new mattress matches your bed’s frame or base. Consider the room’s size and how many people will sleep on it. We’ll guide you through different mattress sizes and help pick the best one for you.
A single bed and mattress measure 90cm wide and 190cm long (3ft by 6ft 3ins). Perfect for one person, they fit well in small bedrooms. These beds are a great choice for children, cost-effective and suitable from around four years old into their teenage years. This size is ideal for accommodating a single sleeper.
A small double bed and mattress, often called a queen size, measures 120cm wide and 190cm long (4ft by 6ft 3ins). Ideal for one person, it can fit two adults if needed. Perfect for smaller bedrooms, choose a divan or ottoman base for extra storage. This size is great for single sleepers or couples in small rooms.
A double mattress is 135cm wide and 190cm long (4ft 6ins by 6ft 3ins). It’s a popular choice for two people and fits well in most bedrooms. Consider a double ottoman bed for extra storage. This size is ideal for two sleepers and small to medium-sized rooms.
A king size mattress measures 150cm wide and 200cm long (5ft x 6ft 6in). It’s ideal for taller people needing extra legroom and couples who want more space. Suitable for two individuals, especially those over 190cm/6ft 2in tall, it offers a comfortable upgrade from a double bed.
Super king mattresses are the largest standard uk mattress size available, measuring 180cm wide and 200cm long (6ft x 6ft 6in). Ideal for families or those who love extra space, our range includes natural fibre and pocket spring options. This size suits two or more sleepers, offering ample room for a comfortable night’s sleep.
An emperor bed and mattress measure 200cm in width and 200cm in length (approximately 6ft 6ins by 6ft 6ins). This spacious size is excellent for those who prefer extra room while sleeping. It’s particularly suitable for larger bedrooms, offering luxury and comfort. Ideal for couples who value space, it ensures a restful night’s sleep. The emperor size is recommended for two people, especially in expansive bedroom spaces.
A large emperor bed and mattress typically measure 215cm in width and 215cm in length (7ft by 7ft). This grand size is perfect for luxurious, spacious bedrooms, offering an abundance of sleeping space. It’s an excellent choice for couples who enjoy ample room or families with children joining them in bed. The large emperor size is ideal for those who desire the ultimate sleeping experience with plenty of space.
Choosing the right mattress size is important for comfort and fit. Measure your bed frame first, then find a mattress at least that size, with an extra inch or two for assurance.
By keeping these factors in mind, you’ll ensure a perfect fit and comfortable sleep.
The king size mattress has surpassed the double bed mattress as the most popular bed size in the UK. The rise in demand for zip and link mattresses has made king size mattresses more accessible to a wider range of individuals.
The use of zip and link beds enables homeowners with smaller houses, challenging access, or narrow stairwells to fit a king size mattress in their bedrooms. These split piece beds can even accommodate super king-sized mattresses, making them an excellent choice for loft rooms and other tight spaces.
| EURO BED/MATTRESS SIZE | WIDTH x LENGTH (METRIC) | WIDTH x LENGTH (IMPERIAL) |
|---|---|---|
| Euro Single (Twin) | 90 x 200 | 3’0” x 6’6” |
| Euro Small Double | 120 x 200 | 4’0” x 6’6” |
| Euro Double | 140 x 200 | 4’7” x 6’6” |
| Euro King | 160 x 200 | 5’3” x 6’6” |
| Euro Super King | 180 x 200 | 6’0” x 6’6” |
The standard size of a European single bed, commonly referred to as a twin bed, is 90cm in width and 200cm in length (equal to 3ft x 6ft 6ins). This implies that twin beds and mattresses are slightly longer than their UK equivalents but share the same width.
A European small double bed and mattress measures 120cm in width and 200cm in length (equivalent to 4ft x 6ft 6ins) when measured in metric units. These beds are an ideal option for couples with smaller bedrooms, teenagers, or those looking for more sleeping space than a single bed provides, similar to their UK equivalents.
The standard size of a European double bed and mattress is 140cm in width and 200cm in length (equal to 4 feet 6 inches wide and 6 feet 6 inches long). This size is the most common in Europe and provides ample sleeping space while not occupying too much room.
The standard size of a European king size bed and mattress is 160cm in width and 200cm in length (equal to 5ft 2ins wide and 6ft 6ins long) when measured in metric units. This implies that Euro king size beds are slightly wider than their UK equivalents. They provide an ample amount of sleeping space, making them a luxurious option for couples who require extra room to sleep.
The standard size of a Euro super king bed and mattress is 180cm in width and 200cm in length (equal to 6ft x 6ft 6ins) when measured in metric units. This size is identical to the UK super king, offering the most extensive sleeping space of all bed sizes. Euro super king beds are an ideal choice for couples seeking maximum space and comfort during sleep.
When it comes to choosing the right bed for your bedroom space, it’s important to consider how much floor space you have available. Double bed sizes are a popular choice in the UK, and the National Bed Federation recommends getting the biggest bed possible for your room size.
A double mattress can provide plenty of extra leg room for a good night’s sleep, and opting for a queen size bed can offer even more space for couples. It’s worth noting that there are a variety of UK mattress sizes available, so it’s worth researching the different options before making a decision.
If you’re looking for a bed that can double up as guest beds, then zip & link models are a great option. They allow for completely customized spring tensions for each sleeper, and can be easily separated into two single beds if needed. Plus, they can be a great choice for restricted access areas, such as tight corners or narrow staircases.
If you need a different size or shape of mattress altogether, such as for an antique bed frame, houseboat, caravan or motorhome, then our bespoke service can provide expert advice and guidance. We have plenty of experience in making custom sleeping arrangements, and can help you find the perfect mattress for your unique needs.
Published: 18th February 2023 (Updated: 14th December 2023) |
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