Bed & Mattress Size Guide

The number of different mattress and bed sizes may come as a surprise to some when out shopping, with the UK using 8 standard sizes. Look further afield and you’ll find a whole host of mattress and bed sizes, differing between the continents.

Whether you’re purchasing a new bed, or upgrading your mattress, choosing the right one is extremely important. Here at The Bed Shop Halifax, we only stock standard UK mattresses, helping to make your decision a little easier. We spend approximately 1/3 of our lives sleeping (based on an 8-hour night!) so there’s no denying you want to be comfortable. When it comes to kitting out a child’s bedroom or treating yourself to some extra leg room, find out exactly which mattress size could be right for you in our handy bed and mattress size guide below.

 

 

 

Super king

King

Double

Small double

Single

Metric

180cm x 200cm

150cm x 200cm

135cm x 190cm

120cm x 190cm

90cm x 190cm

Imperial

6'0" x 6'6"

5'0" x 6'6"

4'6" x 6'3"

4'0" x 6'3"

3'0" x 6'3"

 

Which size mattress is right for me?

Below we’ve broken down each UK standard bed and mattress to explain the difference in size and who it might be suitable for. However, it’s important to remember that not only do mattresses come in different widths and heights, they also come in different depths ranging from 8-12 inches on average. This is especially important to bear in mind when it comes to shopping for bedsheets but can also affect the longevity and comfort of the mattress.

UK Bed and Mattress Size Guide
How big is a super king size bed and mattress?

Super king beds and mattresses are the largest standard UK size. They’re ideal for couples who want extra space and families who love to all snuggle up together on a Sunday morning. Almost as wide as they are long, a super king size bed and mattress is a truly spacious affair.

Dimensions: 6'0" x 6'6" (180cm x 200cm)

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How big is a king size bed and mattress?

The next step down from a super king, a king size mattress is one of the most popular UK sizes. Perfect for couples or those too tall for a 6’2” bed, a king size mattress can easily accommodate family movie night or breakfast in bed!

Dimensions: 5'0" x 6'6" (150cm x 200cm)

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How big is a double bed and mattress?

A popular choice, the double mattress is ideal for those outgrowing a single bed although it does come in at slightly shorter than a king size. They fit comfortably in most double bedrooms leaving room for additional furniture. As one of the most common bed sizes, there are plenty of options to choose from when choosing a double mattress.

Dimensions: 4'6" x 6'3" (135cm x 190cm)

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How big is a small double bed and mattress?

Small double mattresses are often also referred to as three quarter or queen size mattresses as they sit between a single and a double-sized bed. If your double bedroom isn’t quite big enough for a full-sized double bed, or you want to treat a younger member of your family to a larger bed, a queen size bed and mattress is the ideal choice.

Dimensions: 4'0" x 6'3" (120cm x 190cm)

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How big is a single bed and mattress?

Single mattresses are very popular amongst families with children. They are often the first bed a child moves into after they’ve outgrown their cot or toddler bed and can last well into the teenage years. For those sharing a room, two single beds and mattresses often fit into a standard double room, either side-by-side or as bunk beds.

Dimensions: 3'0" x 6'3" (90cm x 190cm)

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Bed frame size vs Mattress size

Although mattresses come in standard sizes, bed frames can differ slightly due to their design. When it comes to measuring up for a new bed, make sure to check the full dimensions of the frame you like rather than which mattress size it holds. The last thing you want is to set up your new bed only to realise the door can’t open or the wardrobe no longer fits. Headboards, footboards, and side ridges can all add to the size of a bed frame, and if you’re looking to make use of under-bed storage, keep this in mind too.