Mattress Size Guide – Pick the Right Bed Dimensions

Choosing a mattress isn’t just about comfort; it’s about making sure the size fits your room, your body, and your lifestyle. Too big and you’ll struggle with space, too small and you’ll feel cramped. Below you’ll find a straight‑to‑the‑point rundown of UK standard sizes and practical tips to help you decide.

Standard UK Mattress Sizes

Here’s the quick cheat sheet most retailers use. All dimensions are listed in inches (mm in brackets) and refer to the mattress surface only.

• Single (Twin): 90 × 190 cm (35 × 75 in). Ideal for kids, small guest rooms, or narrow spaces.
• Double: 135 × 190 cm (53 × 75 in). Works for couples who don’t need a lot of extra room.
• King: 150 × 200 cm (59 × 79 in). Good for two adults who like a little breathing space.
• Super King: 180 × 200 cm (71 × 79 in). Best for taller sleepers or anyone who wants luxury room.

If you’re buying a mattress with a pillow top or a thick comfort layer, add a couple of centimeters to the height so the fitted sheet still fits.

How to Choose the Right Size for Your Space

First, measure the floor space where the bed will sit. Leave at least 45 cm (18 in) of clearance on each side for easy access and night‑stand placement. If the room is under 3 m (10 ft) wide, a Single or Double usually feels comfortable; anything larger can make the room feel tight.

Second, think about who will be sleeping there. A Single is fine for a child or a single adult under 6 ft tall. Couples under 5’10” often find a Double adequate, but a King adds a noticeable comfort boost without demanding a huge room.

Third, consider future needs. If you plan to add a partner, a pet, or simply want extra space for reading, it’s cheaper to buy a larger mattress now than to replace it later.

Finally, match the mattress size with your bedding. Sheets, duvet covers, and protectors are sold by size, so buying a non‑standard mattress can force you to buy custom linen, which adds cost.

Bottom line: measure your room, think about who’s sleeping, and pick the smallest size that still gives you freedom to move. That way you get the best mix of comfort and space without overspending.