Size is the first aspect to consider when choosing your next bed and mattress. The dimensions of your bed and mattress are important when accommodating the shape and layout of your space, as well as how much of a platform you require to sleep comfortably on.
Throughout this blog, the experts at Comfybedss discuss the standard UK bed and mattress sizes (including zip and link beds), helping you to decide which is best for your needs!
What are the standard UK bed sizes?
There are several standard bed and mattress sizes available in the UK, which you can find below:
Small Beds
| Bed Size | Dimensions (inches) | Dimensions (cm) |
|---|---|---|
| Small Single | 2’6” x 6’3” | 76 x 190 cm |
| Single | 3’0” x 6’3” | 90 x 190 cm |
| Small Double | 4’0” x 6’3” | 120 x 190 cm |
Large Beds
| Bed Size | Dimensions (inches) | Dimensions (cm) |
|---|---|---|
| Double | 4’6” x 6’3” | 135 x 190 cm |
| King Size | 5’0” x 6’6” | 150 x 200 cm |
| Super King Size | 6’0” x 6’6” | 180 x 200 cm |
Zip and Link Beds
| Bed Size | Dimensions (inches) | Dimensions (cm) |
|---|---|---|
| King Size (2 small single beds) | 5’ x 6’3” or 6’6” | 150 x 200 cm |
| Super King Size (2 single beds) | 6’ x 6’3” or 6’6” | 180 x 200 cm |
UK Standard Mattress Sizes
| Mattress Size | Dimensions (inches) | Dimensions (cm) |
|---|---|---|
| Small Single | 2’6” x 6’3” | 75 x 190 cm |
| Single | 3’0” x 6’3” | 90 x 190 cm |
| Small Double | 4’0” x 6’3” | 120 x 190 cm |
| Double | 4’6” x 6’3” | 135 x 190 cm |
| King Size | 5’0” x 6’6” | 150 x 200 cm |
| Super King Size | 6’0” x 6’6” | 180 x 200 cm |
Why are there different bed and mattress sizes?
Not all spaces are equal in terms of size, shape and layout, which is why a range of bed and mattress sizes is required.
Small box rooms in new builds aren’t spacious enough for large beds, and mammoth master bedrooms tend to feel unbalanced if furnished with a small bed.
What’s more, the sleeping requirements among households and hospitality establishments vary greatly. For example, couples need enough space in their bed to comfortably fit two sleepers, whereas children only require a small bed and mattress.
This leads us to our next point…
Which bed and mattress sizes do I need?
Small single beds and mattresses
The smallest standard bed and mattress size available in the UK, small single beds are the same length as a single, but slightly narrower.
This particular size is ideal for the following:
- Children’s bedrooms – small single beds are great first beds for children up to age 8
- Very compact box rooms that can’t house a single bed
- Small guest rooms
- Twin bedrooms where two single beds and mattresses can’t fit
Single beds
The next size up are standard single beds and mattresses, measuring at a snug 3’0” x 6’3”.
So, who can benefit from a single bed?
- Older children and teenagers
- Guestrooms in B&Bs for twin bookings
- Spare rooms
Small double beds
A great option for those with smaller rooms desiring more sleep space, small doubles are a great option in areas too compact for double beds.
The following can benefit from small double beds:
- Teenagers
- Solo sleepers who need more wriggle room
- University accommodations
- Double guest rooms
Double beds
One of the most popular sizes in UK households, double beds and mattresses are a firm favourite among an array of sleepers and spaces.
Double beds are a great choice for:
- Couples
- Single sleepers who love plenty of room to stretch out
- Large guest rooms and double rooms
King-size beds
Fancy a generous amount of wriggle room so you never have to compromise on comfort? King-size beds are the second to largest bed size on offer, and are ideal for various sleeping situations:
- Couples
- Light sleepers who are often disturbed by their partner whilst sleeping
- Taller people
- Master bedrooms and suites
Super king-size beds
The most luxurious option on the market, super king beds are the biggest standard bed size in the UK. These colossal frames offer more than enough space to rotate and sprawl throughout the night, which is 30cm more than a king bed!
But could a super king bed be suitable for you?
These beds and mattresses are an excellent choice for:
- Large master bedrooms
- Open plan spaces
- Honeymoon suites
Zip and link beds and mattresses
Link-together beds are a unique option that provides flexibility as well as copious amounts of sleep space.
Made up of two small single (2’6”) or single (3’0”) beds that fasten together through a concealed central zip, zip and link beds are separated or attached to form one large bed – either a king or super king-sized frame.
Each bed base can accommodate a different mattress type, meaning partners don’t have to compromise on comfort and can choose a firmness rating that suits their individual preferences.
Zip and link bases are a superb option for:
- Partners with differing mattress comfort preferences
- Guest houses, as they can be split or connected for either twin or double room bookings
- Light sleepers who are easily woken by their partners
By using the guidance above, you should be able to select the most suitable mattress and bed base for your bed or guestroom.
