Last updated: January 2026

Choosing the right bed size is one of the easiest ways to improve sleep comfort. In the UK, size names like single or king are common, but the exact measurements, the room space you need, and the bedding that fits can still be confusing.

This PSCL guide covers standard UK bed and mattress sizes, which size each suits best, how to measure properly, which bedding fits each size, and the sizes available at PSCL.

UK bed and mattress sizes chart, including sizes available at PSCL

In the UK, bed size usually refers to the mattress size a frame is designed to hold. Bed frames are often a little larger than the mattress, so always check the frame’s external dimensions if space is tight.

Mattress size chart, UK measurements (width x length)

UK size nameMattress size (cm)Mattress size (feet)Best forAvailable at PSCL
Single90 x 1903ft x 6ft 3inOne sleeper, guest roomsYes, available at PSCL
Small double120 x 1904ft x 6ft 3inSolo sleeper wanting more space, compact double roomsYes, available at PSCL
Double135 x 1904ft 6in x 6ft 3inCouples, or one sleeper who likes spaceYes, available at PSCL
King150 x 2005ft x 6ft 6inCouples wanting more width and lengthYes, available at PSCL
Super king180 x 2006ft x 6ft 6inMaximum space for couples and familiesYes, available at PSCL
Emperor, PSCL special sizeApprox 213 x 1987ft x 6ft 6inExtra wide luxury sleeping spaceYes, available at PSCL

PSCL note on Emperor: This is a special size. Always use the product page measurements and match bedding to the exact dimensions.

Sizes we stock at PSCL

PSCL stocks the following mattress sizes, all available at PSCL:

  • Single
  • Small double
  • Double
  • King
  • Super king
  • Emperor, special size 7ft x 6ft 6in

Where to add internal links on your site:
After each size section below, add a short callout linking to:

  • “Shop PSCL mattresses in this size”
  • “Shop PSCL bed frames in this size”
  • “Shop PSCL bedding for this size”

Use your standard category pages, and keep anchor text consistent, for example “single mattresses at PSCL”.

How to choose the right UK mattress size

Single, 90 x 190 cm, available at PSCL

A UK single is ideal for one sleeper, teenagers, guest rooms, and smaller bedrooms.

Best for:

  • Narrow rooms where you still want decent walking space
  • Children’s rooms that need extra floor space for play or storage

View Single beds

Small double, 120 x 190 cm, available at PSCL

A small double is a popular choice when a full double feels too large for the room. It also suits a solo sleeper who wants more space than a single.

Best for:

  • Box rooms used as a main bedroom
  • Teenagers and solo adults who want extra width without needing a larger room

Small Double beds

Double, 135 x 190 cm, available at PSCL

The UK double is a common choice for couples, and it can feel generous for solo sleepers.

Best for:

  • Couples in typical UK bedrooms
  • Spare rooms where you want a flexible, widely available bedding size

Double Beds

King, 150 x 200 cm, available at PSCL

A UK king gives extra width and extra length compared with a double, which many couples find noticeably more comfortable.

Best for:

  • Couples who want more personal space
  • Taller sleepers, thanks to the 200 cm length

King size beds

Super king, 180 x 200 cm, available at PSCL

A super king is often the best option if you have the space and want maximum comfort, especially if you share the bed with children or pets.

Best for:

  • Couples who want maximum space
  • Light sleepers who wake easily with movement

Super king size beds

Emperor, PSCL special size 7ft x 6ft 6in, available at PSCL

PSCL’s Emperor is designed for people who want an extra wide bed, beyond a super king. Because it is a special size, planning matters even more.

Best for:

  • Luxury bedrooms with generous floor space
  • Families who share the bed
  • Anyone who wants the widest sleeping surface PSCL offers

7ft Emporer Size Athens Linear Bed (Special Emperor Edition)

Bed size vs mattress size, what is the difference?

Mattress size is the sleeping surface measurement.
Bed frame size is the external footprint of the bed.

Why it matters:

  • A mattress must match the frame’s internal size.
  • The frame footprint determines whether it fits your room.
  • Headboards, footboards, and thick side rails can add meaningful extra centimetres.

PSCL tip: If your room is tight, compare the external bed frame width and length as well as the mattress size.

Room planning, how much space do you need around the bed?

A bed can fit on paper but still feel awkward if you cannot walk around it comfortably.

A practical clearance target:

  • Around 60 cm on each side you use for getting in and out
  • Around 60 to 75 cm at the foot of the bed if you walk past it often
  • Extra clearance where drawers open, or where an ottoman base lifts

Simple room width guide for a comfortable fit

These are useful starting points, not strict rules.

  • Single, aim for room width around 210 cm or more
  • Double, aim for room width around 255 cm or more
  • King, aim for room width around 285 cm or more
  • Super king, aim for room width around 345 cm or more
  • Emperor, aim for room width around 378 cm or more, based on the extra width

PSCL tip: If you are choosing an ottoman bed, check that the lift direction has enough clearance.

Measuring checklist, avoid the most common mistakes

1) Measure the room space

  • Measure wall to wall where the bed will sit
  • Note radiators, sockets, skirting boards, and window sills
  • Include bedside tables in your plan

2) Measure delivery access

  • Door widths, hallway widths, stairs, and tight turns
  • Landing turning space
  • Lift size if applicable

3) Confirm compatibility if you are keeping your frame

  • Check the internal mattress space of the frame
  • Do not rely on the name alone, confirm centimetres

Bedding sizes in the UK, what fits each mattress size?

Bedding must match the mattress size, and fitted sheets must also match mattress depth.

Common UK duvet sizes (width x length)

  • Single duvet, 135 x 200 cm
  • Double duvet, 200 x 200 cm
  • King duvet, 230 x 220 cm
  • Super king duvet, 260 x 220 cm

For Emperor sizes, duvet and bedding may need to be made to fit.

Fitted sheets and mattress depth

To choose the right fitted sheet:

  • Measure mattress depth from top to bottom
  • If you use a topper, include it in the depth
  • Buy fitted sheets with a depth range that matches your total height

PSCL tip: Deep mattresses often need deep fitted sheets, this is a common reason sheets slip off at night.

UK, EU, and US sizes, why names can confuse

Size names do not translate neatly between countries. For example, “queen” is not a consistent UK standard.

PSCL recommendation: always compare the exact width and length in centimetres before buying mattresses, frames, or fitted sheets.

FAQs, UK bed and mattress sizes

What are standard UK bed and mattress sizes?

Common UK sizes are single 90 x 190 cm, small double 120 x 190 cm, double 135 x 190 cm, king 150 x 200 cm, and super king 180 x 200 cm. PSCL also stocks an Emperor special size 7ft x 6ft 6in.

Are bed sizes the same as mattress sizes?

Mattress size is the sleeping surface, bed frame size is the external footprint. The frame is often bigger than the mattress.

Is a small double okay for two people?

It can work, but it is tighter than a double. For everyday use, many couples prefer a double or king.

What size is best for taller sleepers?

Look for 200 cm length options, such as king or super king. Extra length is often the biggest comfort improvement.

How do I avoid buying the wrong size bedding?

Match bedding to the mattress size and measurement. For fitted sheets, also match the mattress depth.