One of the most popular mattress sizes, it’s no surprise that there’s plenty of choice when it comes to a double mattress. From memory foam mattresses to latex mattresses, to actigel mattresses, there’s real scope for finding a double mattress that will improve your quality of sleep, whatever your needs.

Sleep is one of the most important parts of a healthy lifestyle, with sleep deficiency linked to an increased risk of health problems. That makes it important to make sure your mattress is tailored towards your sleeping needs. But first, you’ll want to make sure a double mattress is the right size for you, as there are many other similar sized options.

What is the size of a double mattress?

A double mattress is 4 feet 4 inches wide and 6 feet 3 inches long. This is the same as 135cm wide and 190cm long. If your bedroom is too narrow for a king or super-king, the size of a double mattress is perfect.

How big is a double mattress?

Standard double mattresses in the UK measure 4 foot 6inches, or 137cm, in width. Therefore, it is important that you measure the space you have available before deciding if a double bed is appropriate. If not, you may be more suited to a small double or even a king or super king mattress if your room is bigger.

It is well known that the key to a good night’s sleep depends on the mattress. The right kind of mattress can make an incredible difference, providing you with a deep, refreshing sleep night after night. Therefore, it is important to take the time to research what type of mattress is best for you. As the UK’s leading bed specialist, we understand not everyone has the same sleeping patterns and positions.

How to choose the right double mattress?

Sleep Position and Comfort Level

With approximately two thirds of people sleeping on their sides and the rest either preferring to sleep on their stomachs or backs, it is important to understand how your sleeping position relates to the type of support you need.
• If you sleep on your side, you’ll most likely require a soft mattress that responds to pressure points.
• For people who sleep on their back, we recommend a medium-to-firm mattress that provides enough back alignment support.
• If you sleep on your stomach, a firm mattress that prevents your hips and upper body from being at an unnatural angle might be more suitable.

Double Mattresses for Spinal Support
• Latex mattresses combine traditional mattress materials, such as foam, with latex to improve push-back and support for the sleeper. The natural elasticity of the latex material helps to keep the spine in the right position throughout the night, by responding more accurately to the sleep position. With quick response properties, any movement is accounted for, meaning you can move around and still be supported. For those who frequently wake up with a sore-back, a latex double mattress can really make the difference.
• Gel mattresses have similar properties to latex. The gel will respond to the body throughout the night and move in accordance with the sleeper. This means an ongoing approach to keeping your spine aligned, ensuring any health problems are minimised.
• Memory Foam mattresses are also similar. The viscoelastic materials shape around the body. Responding to heat, the mattress will start to soften as the materials react to your body heat. If you sleep in various positions, or you only occasionally share your bed with a partner, then a memory foam double mattress can be a great purchase.

The best double mattresses for couples

The importance of sleep for couples cannot be overstated. Affecting mood, health and general well-being, sleep problems can often put a serious and unnecessary strain on a relationship. Taking this into account, and the fact that two people can and often do have very different sleeping styles, one option may be zip and link mattresses. Zip and link beds and mattresses are revolutionary in that they allow two people to sleep next to each other independent of their sleeping patterns.

With each side of the mattress separate from the other, choosing zip-and-link means you can have varied technologies and comfort levels within one design.  This is great not just for getting the right level of comfort but for eliminating any ‘roll’ effect, regardless of differences in size or weight between the two people.

Whilst zip and link beds are joined by linking bars and zippers, making them incredibly practical and easy to install upstairs, the seam between the two mattresses is undetectable; meaning you get all the benefits of a double mattress and a single rolled into one.

Our 40-night guarantee means you can swap your mattress for another if it doesn’t feel quite right. If you would like any further advice on finding the best double mattress, speak to us on 0800 652 5090.