When it comes to creating a cosy, comfortable bedroom, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the right bed and mattress sizes. In the UK, bed sizes have their own unique standards and they often differ from those you might see overseas. In this guide, we’ll break down the most common UK bed sizes, what each is best for, and some tips on choosing the ideal fit for your space.
Now that we’ve cleared that up, things are much simpler.
In the UK, the most common bed and mattress sizes are single, double, and king. You can also choose from small single, small double, or super-king.
Below, we break down these sizes further and offer some friendly advice on which might be the best fit for your bedroom.
Standard Mattress Sizes
| UK Mattress Size | Dimensions (Imperial) | Dimensions (Metric) |
|---|---|---|
| Small Single | 2'6" x 6'3" | 75 x 190cm |
| Single | 3'0" x 6'3" | 90 x 190cm |
| Small Double (3/4) | 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 |
UK Bed Size Chart
Small Single
A small single measures 75cm wide by 190cm long. 15cm narrower than a standard single, same length. For small single divan bases without a headboard the base matches the mattress dimensions exactly, for a neat fit. But with a standard bed frame the overall size will be 10–20cm larger due to the frame overhang.
Who Should Choose a Small Single?
Small singles are ideal for:
- Narrow areas like box rooms.
- Guest bedrooms that are rarely used.
- Children’s rooms up to around 8 years old.
- Twin bedrooms where two standard singles won’t fit (they can also be pushed together to create a king-size bed).
Standard Single
A standard single measures 90cm wide and 190cm long. 15cm wider than a small single but that extra space makes a big difference for comfort. Singles are wide enough for two people to share side by side temporarily, but are usually intended for one person. Divan bases to match the mattress dimensions are available to save floor space, headboards add 10cm in length or you might opt for a bed frame that adds 10–20cm overall.
Who Should Opt for a Standard Single?
This size is good for:
- Older couples who prefer separate sleeping arrangements.
- Typical twin bedrooms found in hotels and B&Bs.
- Children’s bedrooms, especially when using bunk beds or high sleepers for older kids.
Overall the standard single is the most popular size, the small single is for very small spaces.
Small Double (3/4 Bed)
Also known as a 3/4 bed a small double is 120cm wide and 190cm long. 30cm wider than a standard single, extra space for a larger sleeper. This size is popular with teenagers and in rooms where a full double would be too big. Small double divan bases are designed to match the mattress dimensions exactly, standard bed frames add 10–20cm overall.
Who Should Choose a Small Double (3/4 Bed)?
A small double, or 3/4 bed, is good for:
- Teenagers’ bedrooms.
- Double bedrooms with limited space.
- Guest rooms for couples on short stays. Even though it’s narrower than a full double, it still offers ample room for a comfortable night’s sleep, and ottoman designs can enhance space-saving.
Standard Double
A standard double measures 135cm wide and 190cm long, 15cm wider than a small double. This is the most popular size as it offers a good balance between sleeping space and room efficiency.
Who Should Choose a Standard Double?
This size is for:
- Typical double bedrooms.
- Couples and those who usually share a bed.
- Guest rooms for medium to long term stays.
King-Size
King-size mattresses are 150cm wide and 200cm long, 15cm wider and 10cm longer than standard doubles. This extra space allows more room to sprawl out, which is great for couples.
Many king-size divan bases match the mattress dimensions so a king-size bed can fit into a room designed for a double without sacrificing too much floor space. The extra length is useful for taller people, the extra width helps minimize disturbances from a partner’s movements.
Who Should Opt for a King-Size?
King-size beds are for:
- Couples.
- Households with young children.
- People who are easily disturbed by a partner’s movements.
- Taller people.
- Bedrooms with plenty of space.
Super King-Size
Super king mattresses are very spacious at 180cm wide and 200cm long. 30cm wider than a king-size, it’s not uncommon for some celebrities to use two mattresses to achieve this size. Super kings have the most sleeping space making them a luxury option for master bedrooms.
Who Should Choose a Super King?
This size is for:
- Luxury homes.
- Open-plan layouts.
- Double room.
What are the dimensions of a Zip and Link Bed and Mattress?
Zip and link beds work by combining two smaller mattresses – either small singles or singles – to create one larger bed, in either king or super-king sizes.
King Size: Two small single mattresses together equals a king size.
Super King Size: Two standard single mattresses together equals a super king size.
This system lets you have the sleeping arrangement you want for couples or individuals. Most zip and link beds have a robust, heavy-duty zip along the edges of the mattresses. Unzip this and the two mattresses can be securely connected and some have rigid metal link bars along the zip edge for extra support.
Who benefits from a Zip and Link Bed?
Zip and link beds are ideal for:
Guest Bedrooms: For a flexible, modular sleep setup.
Hotels and Holiday Lettings: For establishments that offer twin and king/super king configurations.
Choosing the Right Bed and Mattress Size
For Couples: Most couples are happy with a double bed but a king size is often better for households with young children or for those who are easily disturbed by their partner’s movements. This is especially true for couples of different weights where every movement can be felt.
For Children: Single beds are best for children around 5 years old as they can grow into them. Up to around 8 years old a small single may suffice.
For the Elderly: Small singles can be a good option for older adults but full single beds are generally better for most.
Make sure your mattress fits your bed
Stick to UK Sizes: Always match a UK-size mattress with a UK-size bed. Don’t mix UK products with EU or US sizes as they won’t fit together.
Consider Mattress Height: The thickness of your mattress affects headboard usage and the fit of safety rails on bunk beds. For example bunk bed guardrails require a mattress less than 20cm thick.
By following these guidelines you can ensure your zip and link bed fits and meets your needs whether it’s for a guest room, hotel or your own home.
