Selecting the correct mattress size is essential for a restful and comfortable night’s sleep. The right size ensures easy rolling over in good posture and without pain. This guide will take you through the standard UK mattress sizes and provide helpful tips to help you make the ideal choice. Whether purchasing a mattress for an existing bed, cot, or crib, it is always a beneficial idea to measure your bed frame for a size that fits standard mattress sizes.

What are the Most Common Mattress Sizes in the UK?

1. Single Mattress Size

• Measurements: 90 cm (width) x 190 cm (length)
• A single mattress is the smallest standard mattress size in the UK and is generally used for kids' bedrooms, guest rooms, or smaller spaces.
• Versatility and Value for Money: Small singles are cheaper than big singles and are the perfect option for young children and teenagers, who require more space than a cot bed mattress but not a bigger one.

2. Small Single Mattress Dimensions

• Dimensions: 75 cm (width) x 190 cm (length)
• A small single mattress size is perfect for small rooms, and a narrower alternative is for teenagers or kids who need a bed but don't have room for an entire single sleeper's bed.
• Space Suitability for Small Rooms: This space-saver is perfect for visitors or smaller bedrooms. It's an excellent choice for emerging young adults who still need a smaller sleeping area.

3. Small Double Mattress Size

• Dimensions: 120 cm (width) x 190 cm (length)
• A small double is more significant than an ordinary single but smaller than a standard double. It's also referred to as a "three-quarter" mattress and is widely used for application in guest or small bedrooms.
• Comparison to Standard Double: A compact double is 120 cm in width, shorter than a standard double of 137 cm. This measurement works for one that requires more expansive space than a single but cannot fit a double mattress.

4. Double Mattress Size

• Size: 137 cm (width) x 190 cm (length)
• Double mattresses are among the most sought-after UK mattress sizes. They provide sufficient space for a single or two sleepers who don't require much space compared to a king-size.
• Ideal for Couples or Single Sleepers: It is ideal for couples and those who require extra space compared to one bed. It's also perfect for guest rooms or compact master bedrooms.

5. King-Size Mattress

• Dimensions: 150 cm (width) x 200 cm (length)
• The king-size bed is ideal for taller people or couples who require additional leg space and room to extend.
• Better Suits Taller People: 200 cm long, ideal for taller people requiring more space. When buying, measure your bed frame because king-size bed mattresses might be too large to fit in little bedrooms.

6. Superking Mattress Sizes

• Dimensions: 180 cm (width) x 200 cm (length)
• A super king-sized bed mattress provides much more space than a king-size bed, so it's ideal for anyone who loves genuinely comfortable sleep and wants plenty of room to stretch.
• Suitable Room Types: Super king-size beds would ideally suit substantial master bedrooms with ample floor space so that the width and length can fit comfortably. If you share the bed, this mattress can provide a luxurious and affordable sleeping experience.

Mattress Depth

The depth is measured from the top to the bottom of the mattress, defining its thickness. Depth can determine comfort, firmness, and support and should be checked against the technical specifications at the time of purchase to ensure it is correct for your requirements. A mattress would be expected to provide maximum comfort and deeper profiles.

Types of Mattresses

1. Memory Foam Mattress

What it does: The inside of most memory foam mattresses consists of visco-elastic foam. This foam conforms to your body's shape and weight, "remembering" it and offering personalised support.

Advantages:

• Pressure Relief: It is suitable for side sleepers or people suffering joint pain to maintain pressure-free body contours.
• Motion Isolation: The foam absorbs motion so that a partner's body does not disturb sleep, even during movement.
• Durable: The mattresses do not sag easily or become worn, offering long-term comfort.

Disadvantage:

• Heat Retention: Old memory foam is hot, so it might not be comfortable for some sleepers, but it can be reduced with gel-infused and ventilated types.

2. Pocket Spring Mattress

Description: Spring mattresses are composed of pocket springs draped in fabric, pocket spring mattresses move independently for customised support.

Advantages:

• Support and Breathability: Extremely successful at supporting the body while still moving air around so that the sleeper remains cool.
• Minimal Motion Transfer: The springs' freedom of movement reduces motion transfer, making them an appropriate choice for couples.
• Variety of Firmness: Various firmness options are available to meet different needs.

Disadvantage:

• Less Contouring: It does not hug the body like memory foam and may not be as comfortable for some sleepers.

3. Hybrid Mattress

Description: A hybrid bed combines memory foam or latex with pocket springs and offers the benefits of both.

Advantages:

• Balanced Comfort: Provides the foam shaping and spring reinforcement to fit various sleeping postures.
• Temperature Regulation: Free airflow in the spring layer results in temperature regulation and improved comfort.
• Versatile: Made of various material combinations and firmness levels to fulfil many needs.

Disadvantage:

• Cost: Orthopaedic mattresses will be pricier due to their complexity in components and structure.

4. Orthopaedic Mattress

This mattress provides extra support to the spine and back. Doctors often recommend it for people with posture problems or back pain.

Advantages:

• Firm Support: Orthopaedic mattresses have a firmer feel. This allows the spine to align and helps reduce back pain.
• Health Benefits: It helps ease conditions like back pain and poor posture, leading to better sleep quality.

Disadvantage:

• Firmness Difference: People used to sleeping on softer, more contouring mattresses might not like the firmness.

How to Pick the Right Mattress Size

Always measure your bed frame and bedroom first when shopping for a mattress. This process ensures the bed will fit. Think about how many people will sleep in it, how much space you have, and whether you want extra room to stretch out. The mattress size you pick will affect how comfortable and well you sleep, so choose wisely.

Mattress Brands Available at Choice Furniture Superstore

• Dormeo Octaspring

Features advanced memory foam technology combined with octagonal springs for maximum airflow and cooler, fresher sleeping.

• Dura Beds

It is known for its strength and availability of pocket-sprung and memory foam mattresses for all budgets and tastes.

• Breasley

Orthopaedic mattresses to correct posture and support the spine, featuring top-class comfort at an affordable price.

• Kayflex

Made from high-grade materials, Kayflex mattresses give soft comfort and long-lasting support and are highly respected for their value.

Conclusion

When selecting a mattress, you must consider the size of your room, the number of people sleeping on the bed, and your personal comfort preferences, whether you’re looking for a memory foam, pocket spring, or hybrid mattress.

Explore our collection today to find the perfect mattress to suit your needs and improve your sleep quality.