UK Bed Sizes: The Bed And Mattress Size Guide

So you’re buying a new bed or mattress, but you’re not sure about what the different bed sizes are. "Is there a standard size?" "Do I have to buy my bed frame and mattress at the same time?" "How big are king size bed dimensions compared to a standard double?"

It’s enough to stress anyone out, which is why we thought we’d put together this quick-reference guide to help you out.

In the UK, bed sizes are measured according to the size of the mattress they hold, which is a standard measurement. However, the actual dimensions of the bed frames can vary according to their shape and style, which is what can often cause confusion. A common mistake is to use the mattress size measurements for the required space, but you should always look at individual bed frame dimensions for exact measurements, as they will vary from frame to frame, and almost always be slightly larger than the mattress dimensions.

Most modern beds/mattresses sold in the UK (and Ireland) are constructed using imperial dimensions but are generally sold in their approximate metric equivalents:

Standard Bed & Mattress Sizes (UK)

Small Single (2'6'') Size

Ideal for younger children or the petite, ‘small single’ (2’6”) bed frames and mattresses work well in smaller bedrooms where space is tight. They are also a good ‘transition’ bed for young children moving from a cot into their first ‘grown-up’ bed.

Single (3'0'')

Suitable for both children and adults, ‘single’ (3’0”) beds are wider than ‘small singles’ and provide a good amount of room for a single sleeper. This is the most common size for children’s beds, including bunk beds.

Small Double (4'0'') (Queen)

A ‘small double’ (4’0”) bed (also known as a ‘Queen’ or a ‘Three Quarter’) is wider than a single bed but smaller in width than a double. It provides plenty of space for one or enough room for two (although two adults may find it a little ‘cosy’). Great for smaller bedrooms and guestrooms where a standard double won’t quite fit.

Standard Double (4'6'')

A ‘double’ bed (4’6”) is designed to sleep two adults comfortably. This is the most common and widely available size for all bed types in the UK.

King Size (5'0'')

A standard ‘King Size’ (5’0”) bed includes a longer length than the standard ‘double’ (6’6” instead of 6’3”).  A king size bed will provide plenty of room for two adult sleepers, but should only be used in larger bedrooms with more space. 

Super King Size (6'0'')

The largest of all, the ‘super king’ (6’0”) sized bed provides an abundance of space for two sleeping adults; perfect for couples who prefer their own space!

IKEA Bed Sizes