What size bed do you need? Single, Double, King, Super King… They all have their place in our 21st century homes. So how do you choose? Bed sizes, UK ones at least, will vary according to their design but we’ve put together a UK mattress sizes chart for you, one in cm and one in inches, to make it easier (and you’ll see European mattress sizes tend to be about 10cm/3” longer).
Mattress sizes (UK)
| Size | W x L (ft) | W x L (cm) |
| Cot | 2’0” x 4’0” | 60 x 120 |
| Cot bed | 2’3” x 4’6” | 70 x 140 |
| Small single | 2’6” x 6’3” | 75 x 190 |
| Single | 3’0” x 6’3” | 90 x 190 |
| EU Single | 3’0” x 6’6” | 90 x 200 |
| Small Double | 4’0” x 6’3” | 120 x 190 |
| Double | 4’5” x 6’3” | 135 x 190 |
| EU Double | 4’9” x 6’6” | 140 x 200 |
| King size | 5’0” x 6’6” | 150 x 200 |
| EU Queen | 5’3” x 6’6” | 160 x 200 |
| Super King | 6’0” x 6’6” | 180 x 200 |
What size is a cot and mattress?
Larger than a Moses basket or crib, cots are suitable from birth but in reality it’s usually from around 3 months; it is recommended that newborns and babies under 12 months have a firm, flat surface to sleep on. Typical measurements are 60cm x 120cm.
What size is a cot bed and mattress?
Typically cot bed mattresses are 70cm wide and 140cm long, this is larger than a cot and is suitable for babies from around 3 months to 2/3 yrs, depending on the child. So if you have space for it, a cot bed is longer lasting; some even have one removeable side so that it can function as small, low bed for toddlers.
What size is a small single bed and mattress?
At 190cm long and 75cm wide, this is a little narrower than a standard UK single size, so it’s ideal for smaller bedrooms or perhaps as a spare bed in an office or attic.
What size is a single bed and mattress?
Measuring 90 x190cm (or 3’0”x 6’3” if you prefer imperial), the single bed size is a super versatile option that’s ideal for a spare room or a child’s room, either in a standard or bunk bed (although for safety reasons you should always opt for a single mattress under 20 cm for any raised bed).
And since a single mattress size in cm is 90cm wide, and a Super King mattress is 180cm wide… Ring any mathematical bells? Yes, a Super King is the same size as two singles side by side. In fact, some Super-King mattresses are exactly that, with two single mattresses that zip together to form a Super-King so each partner can enjoy the firmness that suits their individual preference.
What size is an EU single bed and mattress?
An EU single mattress measures 90cm wide by 200cm long – which means that it is a full 10cm longer than the UK single; it might not sound like much but it makes a difference if you’re tall!
What size is a small double bed and mattress?
A Small Double mattress size (also known as a UK Queen or Three Quarter bed size) is perfect for older children or teenagers - at a pinch it can even fit two, infrequent guests. With dimensions of 120x190cm (or 4’0”x 6’3”) they’re also a godsend for one or at a pinch two, infrequent guests.
What size is a double bed and mattress?
Measuring 135x190cm or 4’5”x 6’3”, this is one of the most popular sizes of bed; the extra double bed width will give you more flexibility than a small double and can accommodate two average-sized adults (or just one that likes to stretch out). They also tend to look well-proportioned in most bedrooms.
If you’re struggling to visualise how wide is a double bed, rest assured they’re definitely a popular size for couples, depending on how much wiggle room you prefer. Ideally, you and your partner should be able to lie on your back with your hands behind your head without your elbows touching each other or the edge of the bed.
And as ever don’t forget to measure, measure and measure again; double mattresses come in a UK size and EU size, and the dimensions are slightly different, see below.
What size is an EU double bed and mattress?
An EU double mattress measures 140cm wide by 200cm long (4’9”x 6’6”), making it a little wider and longer than a UK double. This is a great option for couples which prefer a little more room but don’t have the space or budget for a King size bed and mattress. Do bear in mind though that you'll need to invest in EU double duvets and bedding to match.
What size is a king size bed and mattress?
You may be thinking, do I really need a King size bed? But the reality is that King size mattress dimensions are considerably greater than double bed measurements (especially if you have children or pets that like to pop in during the night). And while a King size is more expensive than a double, it does provide a lot more sleeping space; it’s very popular among the parents of Mumsnet, who for obvious reasons treasure their sleep and say the larger size is helpful with kids (and snoring husbands).
A King size mattress measures 150 x 200cm or 5’0”x 6’6”.
What size is an EU Queen bed and mattress?
This is a luxurious size, measuring 160 x 200cm, or 5’3 x 6’6” if you’re still on the imperial scale. It’s more difficult to track down bedding and beds in this size, and your EU Queen mattress choice may be more limited too. But there’s no doubt this is a super-comfortable option for coupes that appreciate extra sleep space.
What size is a Super King bed and mattress?
If you have space and budget, the largest, readily available standard mattress is the Super King, and it’s the last word in luxury. It’s great for couples who like their own space and for light sleepers who are easily disturbed by their partners snoring or dreaming.
With dimensions of 180 x 200cm (6’0”x 6’6”), the sheets and bedding for Super King Mattress will cost more, so it’s a good idea to factor that into your budget.
Mattress and bed sizes: hints and tips
If you already have a bed, check its dimensions to make sure you know what size mattress you need. If not, here’s our step-by-step guide to help you make your decision.
Step 1: What fits your space? To avoid feeling cramped, aim for a space of 2ft 6in (76cm) between the sides of the bed and walls or furniture. Think about the size of your headboard too: a low bed in a high-ceilinged room may not look in proportion.
Step 2: Who’s it for? Bear in mind children grow, taller couples (or perhaps they have kids) may want more space, and guests won’t be using it all the time (so you can choose what works best for your overall household).
Step 3: How tall are you and/or your partner? Anyone under 6 feet tall will have enough legroom on any mattress, but anyone over 6 feet tall should consider one of the longer bed sizes such as King, or Super King.
Step 4: Think about future use. How long do you want your new mattress to last? For example, if you’re buying for a small child, consider going a size up to future-proof the bed.
Step 5: What’s your budget? The price of beds and mattresses tends to increase in line with their size, as does the cost and availability of accessories like sheets and duvets.
FAQs
Why are UK bed sizes different to UK mattress sizes?
Beds provide the frame or platform for the mattress to sit in or on – and since bed designs vary so do their outside dimensions. But the space where the mattress sits is always designed to follow standardised mattress sizes.
What mattress size is best for tall people?
Taller sleepers should opt for the larger UK mattress sizes such as King or Super King or consider the longer EU mattress sizes, which tend to be 10cm (or 3”) more in length.
What mattress size is best for couples with different preferences?
Thanks to their unique, patented Aerocoil® spring technology, Simba Hybrid® mattresses are designed to offer superbly tailored support with minimal movement transfer – which helps everyone sleep happy! Alternatively if you have the space you could opt for a Super King bed size featuring two singles zipped together.
What are the most popular UK bed & mattress sizes?
The standard Double bed size and King size mattresses/beds tend to be the bestselling sizes in the UK.
What’s the largest ‘standard’ bed size in the world?
The Emperor mattress is the biggest you can buy, easily big enough for two larger-than-average adults; it’s basically an enormous square measuring 200 x 200cm (approximately 6ft 6in x 6ft 6in). Not many brands make mattresses this big, so you might need to shop around and be prepared to spend significantly more.
