UK Bed Sizes Explained

Choosing the right bed size affects everything from how well you sleep to how much storage you can squeeze into your bedroom. This guide breaks down the standard UK bed sizes—from single through to super king—so you can find the perfect fit for your space and needs. You'll also find links to our single, small double, double, king, and super king storage bed collections.

In this article

• Standard UK bed sizes compared
• Single bed sizes
• Small double bed sizes
• Double bed sizes
• King size bed sizes
• Super king size bed sizes

Standard UK Bed Sizes Compared

Here's a quick reference for the standard UK bed dimensions. These measurements give you a baseline for planning your space.

These are the industry-standard measurements, but bed sizes can vary between manufacturers. Frame type matters too—storage bases and ottoman mechanisms can add height and slightly alter the overall footprint. Some retailers use their own sizing conventions, so always check the specific dimensions before you buy.

This variation matters more than you think. The average UK home now has just 2.95 bedrooms, down from over 3.6 bedrooms in properties built between the 1930s–1980s, according to LABC research. Modern homes built from 2010 onwards are over 4 square metres smaller than those from the previous decade. Every centimetre counts.

How Big Is a Single Bed?

A standard single bed often comes in these measurements:

• Length: 190cm (6'3")
• Width: 90cm (3'0")
• Height: Varies by frame type, typically 25–45cm

Single beds are the most compact option for sleeping one person comfortably. The 90cm width gives you enough room to move without taking up excessive floor space.

Do Single Bed Sizes Differ by Brand?

Yes, single bed dimensions can vary between manufacturers. Here's how different brands compare:

Most brands stick to the 90cm width, but length can vary. IKEA adds 10cm to accommodate taller sleepers. Always measure the actual bed you're considering, not just the category.

Looking for maximum storage in a single bed? Check out our single storage beds that give you accessible under-bed space without compromising comfort.

How Do You Measure for a Single Bed?

Start by measuring the bed frame itself—length, width, and height. Then add the space you'll need around it.

You want at least 60–70cm of clearance on the side you'll use to get in and out of bed. At the foot of the bed, 50cm gives you comfortable walking space. If you're placing the bed against a wall, which is common for single beds, you only need clearance on one side. Factor in any bedside furniture too—a small table or lamp needs roughly 40–50cm of width.

Who Are Single Beds Suitable For?

Single beds work best for children, teenagers, and guest rooms in smaller homes. They're the practical choice when you need to fit a bed into a compact space without sacrificing too much floor area for other furniture or movement.

In urban properties where bedrooms average just 9–10 square metres, a single bed often makes the difference between a functional room and a cramped one.

How Big Is a Small Double Bed?

Small double beds go by different names depending on the retailer. Some call them “queen” beds, others stick with “small double”. The size stays roughly the same.

A standard small double bed often comes in these measurements:

• Length: 190cm (6'3")
• Width: 120cm (4'0")
• Height: Varies by frame type, typically 25–45cm

The 120cm width gives you 30cm more than a single bed—enough for one adult to sleep comfortably with extra room, or two people in a cosy arrangement.

Do Small Double Bed Sizes Differ by Brand?

Small double beds show more variation between brands than singles. Here's the comparison:

Again, IKEA adds length. The width stays consistent at 120cm across most manufacturers.

Maximise your bedroom with our small double storage beds that fit tight spaces while giving you substantial under-bed storage.

How Do You Measure for a Small Double Bed?

Measure the frame dimensions first. Then plan for clearance space.

You need 70–80cm on at least one side for comfortable access. If two people will use the bed, try to leave space on both sides—even 50cm on the second side helps. At the foot of the bed, maintain 60cm for movement. Remember that small double beds work well in rooms where a full double feels too cramped, but you still want more space than a single provides.

Who Are Small Double Beds Suitable For?

Small double beds suit older children, teenagers, and young couples who don't need the full width of a standard double. They're particularly popular in studio apartments and smaller bedrooms where every centimetre of floor space matters.

This size also works well for guest rooms where you want to accommodate couples occasionally without dedicating too much space to a bed that sits empty most of the time.

How Big Is a Double Bed?

A standard double bed often comes in these measurements:

• Length: 190cm (6'3")
• Width: 135cm (4'6")
• Height: Varies by frame type, typically 25–45cm

The double bed remains the most popular choice for couples in the UK. The 135cm width gives each person roughly 67.5cm of sleeping space—more than a single bed but less than you'd get with a king.

Do Double Bed Sizes Differ by Brand?

Double beds show some variation, particularly in length. Here's what different brands offer:

IKEA adds both length and width to their double beds. Most UK manufacturers stick to 135cm width as the standard.

Our double storage beds give you the sleeping space you need plus massive under-bed storage for everything from suitcases to seasonal wardrobes.

How Do You Measure for a Double Bed?

Measure your room dimensions and the bed frame. Then calculate clearance.

You want 70–80cm on both sides of the bed if possible. This gives each person easy access without climbing over their partner. At the foot of the bed, leave 60–70cm for comfortable movement. If your room won't accommodate clearance on both sides, place one side against the wall and ensure the accessible side has at least 80cm of space.

According to UK housing standards, a double bedroom must legally measure at least 10.22 square metres. That's tight for a double bed plus furniture, which is why storage beds make such a difference.

Who Are Double Beds Suitable For?

Double beds are most commonly used by adult couples as their main bed. They strike a balance between sleeping comfort and space efficiency—you get enough room for two people without requiring the larger footprint of a king or super king.

This size works particularly well in urban bedrooms where space comes at a premium.

How Big Is a King Size Bed?

A standard king size bed often comes in these measurements:

• Length: 200cm (6'6")
• Width: 150cm (5'0")
• Height: Varies by frame type, typically 25–45cm

King size beds give you noticeably more space than a double. The extra 15cm of width and 10cm of length make a real difference in sleeping comfort, particularly for taller people or couples who want more personal space.

Do King Size Bed Sizes Differ by Brand?

King size beds show reasonable consistency across brands, with some variation:

Most manufacturers align on 200cm length and 150cm width. IKEA adds 10cm to the width for their king beds.

Explore our king size storage beds that combine luxury sleeping space with practical storage solutions.

How Do You Measure for a King Size Bed?

King size beds need more room to breathe. Measure the frame, then plan your clearance carefully.

You want 80–90cm on both sides for comfortable access. At the foot of the bed, maintain 70–80cm of walking space. A king size bed in a room smaller than 12 square metres will feel cramped. If you're working with a smaller space, consider whether a double bed with excellent storage gives you a better overall result.

Who Are King Size Beds Suitable For?

King size beds work best for couples who want a more luxurious sleep experience in their main bedroom. The extra width gives each person roughly 75cm of space—more than a single bed.

This size is particularly popular with couples who have different sleep schedules or movement patterns. The additional space means you're less likely to disturb your partner when you move during the night.

How Big Is a Super King Size Bed?

A standard super king size bed often comes in these measurements:

• Length: 200cm (6'6")
• Width: 180cm (6'0")
• Height: Varies by frame type, typically 25–45cm

Super king beds are the largest standard size available in the UK. The 180cm width gives each person 90cm of sleeping space—the equivalent of a full single bed each.

Do Super King Size Bed Sizes Differ by Brand?

Super king beds show the most variation in dimensions. Here's the comparison:

Super king dimensions are remarkably consistent at 200cm x 180cm across manufacturers. The frame design and height vary more than the mattress dimensions.

Browse our super king size storage beds for maximum sleeping comfort and storage capacity.

How Do You Measure for a Super King Size Bed?

Super king beds demand generous room dimensions. Measure carefully before you commit.

You need at least 90cm on both sides for comfortable access and to avoid a cramped feeling. At the foot of the bed, maintain 80–90cm of clearance. A super king bed needs a room of at least 14–15 square metres to work properly. In smaller spaces, the bed will dominate the room and leave little space for other furniture or movement.

Who Are Super King Size Beds Suitable For?

Super king beds suit couples who prioritise sleep quality and have the bedroom space to accommodate the larger footprint. This size works particularly well for taller people, those who move around during sleep, or couples who simply want maximum comfort.

The super king is also popular with people downsizing from larger homes. Nearly one in five UK homeowners over 50 have already downsized, representing approximately 4 million people. Many want to maintain their sleep quality even as they move to smaller properties—a super king bed with integrated storage helps them do exactly that.

How Do You Know What Bed Size Is Right for You?

The right bed size depends on several factors working together. Start with your available space—measure your room and calculate realistic clearance around the bed. A bed that fits technically but leaves no room to move creates a cramped, uncomfortable bedroom.

Consider who will use the bed and how. A guest bed can be smaller than your main bed. A child's bed should leave room for play space and other furniture. A couple's main bed should prioritise sleep quality, which usually means going as large as your space allows.

Think about how you'll use the room beyond sleeping. Do you need space for a desk, dresser, or seating area? Your bed size affects what else fits in the room. Finally, consider your budget—larger beds cost more, but the investment in sleep quality pays dividends in how you feel every day.

Find Your Perfect Bed Size at Furl

Furl offers all standard UK bed sizes, from single through to super king. Every bed includes a storage base that maximises the space you have available—you can store full suitcases, seasonal wardrobes, sports equipment, and more in the accessible space under your bed.

If standard sizes don't work for your space, we also offer bespoke storage beds made to your exact measurements. Our craftsmen in Nottingham can create a bed that fits your room perfectly while maintaining the quality and storage capacity you expect from Furl.

Ready to find your ideal bed? View all storage beds and discover how the right size combined with intelligent storage design transforms your bedroom.