The bed and mattress size guide

How bed frame styles affect total dimensions

Here's what many people miss: your bed's actual footprint depends on its style:

• Divan beds match mattress dimensions exactly - brilliant for tight spaces
• Wooden and metal frames extend beyond the mattress with their construction
• Upholstered beds with sleigh designs or plush headboards need extra room
• Ottoman beds lift up at the base to reveal storage space under the mattress so need extra space at the foot. Though they require a little extra room, they are a great space-saving option
• Adjustable beds can extend when raised, so leave extra room for movement and expansion
• Dual-function beds like foldable beds, sofa beds and day beds extend when used for sleeping, so always check the full dimensions for the space required. Read our guide to space saving beds for more information on how these frames work
• TV beds require room for the TV to raise from the foot end of the frame. If you don’t have space for this at the end of your bed, discover more ways to incorpoarate a TV in the bedroom

Before you buy: Check the bed frame's total external dimensions (not just mattress size) using our home measuring guide to ensure everything fits with room to spare.

What is the standard mattress depth?

Mattresses vary in depth depending on the manufacturer. The standard depth of a mattress is between 20-36 centimetres, which will accurately fit a standard fitted sheet for that bed size. Mattresses outside the standard depth range will require either shallower or deeper bedding to fit the mattress securely.

When choosing the right mattress depth for you, it’s important to consider the level of support you prefer, accessibility and appearance.

• Slim profile: 20cm or less, best for kid’s beds, bunk beds and day beds
• Standard profile: 20-30cm, suitable for most adults and older children/teens
• Thick profile: 30-50cm, perfect for those looking for extra comfort & support

What heights do beds come in?

Bed height matters for style and accessibility. Different frame types sit at different levels to suit your needs. Standard beds, including most divans and traditional frames, usually measure 45–55 cm from floor to mattress top, making them easy to get in and out of for most adults. Beds that vary from this include:

• Platform beds and low‑profile frames sit a bit lower, often around 30–40 cm, giving a sleek, modern look that’s ideal if you prefer a lower bed or have a minimalist space.
• Raised children’s beds such as bunk beds and high sleepers typically stand around 150–180 cm tall, creating plenty of under‑bed play or storage space and suiting older kids and teens who are confident climbing ladders.
• Mid sleepers sit a little lower, usually around 120–140 cm, perfect for younger children who want a cosy den‑like space underneath. For help choosing between the two, check out our guide on how to choose between a high sleeper and mid sleeper.

UK vs European bed sizes

European bed and mattress sizes differ slightly to UK bed and mattress sizes, often being a little longer in size. It’s important to understand whether you have a UK or European bed frame before choosing a mattress to ensure it fits properly.