Choosing a bed isn’t just about style or mattress type. One of the biggest decisions is size. Too small, and you’ll feel cramped every night. Too big, and the bed swallows the room. Yet many people get it wrong, often settling for the wrong size because of price, space worries, or guesswork.
Here’s how to get it right the first time.
Why Size Matters
A bed is more than a place to sleep. It affects how well you rest, how your room looks, and even how you move in the morning. Pick a size that’s too small and you’ll twist and turn all night, fighting for space. Pick one that’s too large and you’ll trip over corners and struggle to fit furniture around it.
Getting the balance right means comfort in bed and comfort in your room.
Measure Your Room First
Many people forget to measure properly before buying a bed online from a site like Cheap Bed Sale. They think about the mattress size but not the frame, headboard, or extra space needed to move around. This mistake can leave you with a bed that technically fits but makes the room feel tight.
Use a tape measure and mark out the size of the bed on the floor with masking tape. Walk around it. Can you open doors, drawers, or wardrobes easily? If the answer is no, the bed is too big for the room.
Understand Bed Sizes in the UK
Bed sizes aren’t always as clear as they should be. Here’s a quick guide to the standard UK sizes:
- Single – 90 x 190 cm (good for children, teens, or small guest rooms)
- Small Double – 120 x 190 cm (ideal for one person, cosy for two)
- Double – 135 x 190 cm (best for couples who don’t mind sleeping close)
- King – 150 x 200 cm (extra width and length, suits most couples)
- Super King – 180 x 200 cm (maximum space, luxury feel, but needs a large room)
Many people assume a double is enough, but it’s often tighter than you expect. Couples who choose a king usually notice the difference immediately.
Think About Who Will Use the Bed
The right size depends on more than just the room—it depends on the sleeper.
- Single sleepers may be fine with a small double or double, depending on preference.
- Couples should consider a king for comfort. If one of you moves a lot during the night, the extra space is worth it.
- Families with children or pets who climb into bed may find a super king is the only way to keep everyone comfortable.
Don’t Forget Height
When people talk about bed size, they usually mean width and length. But height matters too. A tall headboard can make a room feel smaller, while a low frame can make the space look more open. For small rooms, a lower bed can create the impression of more space.
Balance Comfort With Space
You may dream of a super king, but if it leaves no space for wardrobes or a bedside table, it won’t work. On the other hand, going too small for the sake of furniture often leads to poor sleep. The right choice is the largest bed that still allows the room to function.
Ask yourself: can I move around freely? Can I store what I need? Do I feel comfortable lying down without bumping into someone or something? If you can answer yes to all three, you’ve found the right size.
Future-Proof Your Choice
A bed is a long-term purchase. Think about how your needs might change. A single may suit a teenager now, but a small double might last longer as they grow. A double might work for a couple today, but if you’re planning children or pets, a king could save you from replacing the bed too soon.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Guessing the size – always measure before buying.
- Choosing for looks alone – the grandest bed may not be the most practical.
- Focusing only on cost – saving now can cost more later if you buy the wrong size.
- Forgetting about the base – storage bases or ottomans can save space, making a larger bed possible in a small room.
Measure Carefully
Most people get bed size wrong because they focus on price or style and forget about space and comfort. The perfect bed size is the one that lets you sleep without restriction while keeping the room easy to live in. Measure carefully, think about how you use the room, and don’t settle for less space than you need.
Choosing wisely today means nights of comfort and mornings without regret.