Bed Dimensions: How to Measure, Choose & Fit the Perfect Mattress

Got a new room or a new mattress on the horizon? The first step is getting the bed dimensions right. Too big and you’re cramped; too small and you waste space. Let’s walk through the basics so you can pick a size that feels just right.

Standard Bed Sizes in the UK

UK bedrooms usually follow a set of common mattress sizes. Here’s the quick cheat‑sheet:

• Single – 90 cm × 190 cm
• Double – 135 cm × 190 cm
• King – 150 cm × 200 cm
• Super King – 180 cm × 200 cm

If you see “Twin” or “Twin XL” in US listings, Twin = 90 cm × 190 cm (same as Single) and Twin XL adds extra length, usually 200 cm. Knowing these numbers helps when you shop overseas or compare brands.

Measuring Your Space for the Right Fit

Before you order, grab a tape measure and check three key spots:

1. Room dimensions – Measure the length and width of the bedroom. Leave at least 60 cm of walking space around the mattress.
2. Wall clearances – If you plan a headboard, add its thickness to the height. Make sure there’s room for night‑stands too.
3. Doorways and stairs – Measure the narrowest point the mattress will pass through. You don’t want a surprise on delivery day.

Tip: Sketch a simple floor plan on graph paper. Block out the mattress size and see how it sits with other furniture. It’s a cheap way to avoid a bad fit.

Now that you know the standards and how to measure, let’s talk a bit about choosing.

If you share a bed, comfort usually comes from width. A King gives two average adults more personal space than a Double, but a Super King can feel extravagant in a small room. For kids, a Single is often enough, but a Twin XL could grow with them into their teens.

Don’t forget bedding. Sheets are sold by mattress size, so buying a mattress that isn’t a standard size can cost extra on linens. Sticking to the common sizes keeps your budget in check.

Finally, think about the mattress type. Memory foam tends to hug the body, which can make a slightly smaller bed feel cozier. Innerspring mattresses need a bit more room to let the springs work properly.

Bottom line: measure twice, compare the standard sizes, and picture the mattress in your room before clicking “add to cart.” This simple process saves you time, money, and a lot of hassle.

Got more questions about bed dimensions? Check out our related posts on XL bedding, sofa dimensions, and storage tips to make the most of every square inch in your home.