The Ultimate Guide to UK vs. EU Bed Sizes (And Why Frame Dimensions Look Bigger!)
- Erin
- Feb 25
- 3 min read
If you’ve been shopping online for a new bed, you’ve likely found yourself scratching your head while looking at the measurements. You finally find the perfect solid wood bed frame, but when you check the dimensions, you panic: Wait, that’s bigger than my mattress! Will my mattress even fit? And what is the difference between a UK and an EU size anyway?
If this sounds familiar, don’t worry - you are not alone. Let’s clear up the confusion so you can buy your next bed frame with total confidence.
The Big Confusion: Mattress Size vs. Outer Frame Dimensions
One of the most common messages we get from customers goes exactly like this:
"Do your beds fit standard UK sizes? The dimensions given on the listing look bigger than standard UK mattresses!"
The answer is yes! Our beds are designed to fit standard UK mattress sizes perfectly. The reason the dimensions on our listings look larger is that they represent the outer footprint of the frame, not just the internal mattress space. When you buy a high-quality, solid wood bed, you are getting thick, sturdy side rails, a substantial headboard, and solid legs.
Internal Dimensions: The space inside the frame where your mattress sits.
External Dimensions (Footprint): The total floor space the bed frame takes up in your room.
When you're measuring your bedroom to see if the bed will fit, you need those external dimensions. But when it comes to your mattress, you just need to ensure the frame is built for the correct standard size (UK or EU).
UK vs. EU Mattress Sizes: What’s the Difference?
Another hurdle when shopping for beds is the mix of UK and EU sizes floating around the internet. While they sound similar, they are slightly different, and putting a UK mattress on an EU frame will leave you with annoying gaps!
Here is a quick comparison table to help you spot the difference:
Size Category | UK Mattress Size (W x L) | EU Mattress Size (W x L) | The Main Difference |
Single | 90 x 190 cm | 90 x 200 cm | EU is 10cm longer. |
Double | 135 x 190 cm | 140 x 200 cm | EU is 5cm wider and 10cm longer. |
King | 150 x 200 cm | 160 x 200 cm | EU is 10cm wider. |
Super King | 180 x 200 cm | 180 x 200 cm | Exactly the same! |
Key Takeaway: EU beds are generally a bit longer (200cm standard length compared to the UK's 190cm for Singles and Doubles) and slightly wider in the Double and King categories.
How to Ensure You Get the Right Fit
Check your mattress tags: Before ordering a bed frame, check the manufacturer's label on your current mattress. It will usually state whether it is a UK or EU size.
Measure twice: Get the tape measure out and measure your mattress's exact width and length in centimetres. Compare it to the table above.
Account for the frame footprint: Don't forget to look at the external dimensions of the bed frame on the product listing to ensure the whole bed fits comfortably in your bedroom without blocking doors or wardrobes.
Need Something Bespoke?
Because we handcraft our solid wood beds right here in the UK, we can tailor them to your exact needs. If you have an EU mattress, an antique odd-sized mattress, or just need the legs shortened to make a safe, low-profile bed for a toddler, we can adjust the dimensions for you.
Comments