Single Beds: A Complete UK Buying Guide
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Time to read 3 min
Brief
Single beds are a practical choice for children’s bedrooms, teenagers, guest rooms and adults who sleep alone. Their compact size leaves more floor space available for wardrobes, drawers, desks and other bedroom furniture.
Single beds are available in many different styles, including upholstered bed frames, divan beds, winged beds and ottoman storage beds.
What Size Is a UK Single Bed?
A standard UK single mattress measures:
90 cm wide × 190 cm long
3 ft wide × 6 ft 3 in long
These measurements refer to the mattress rather than the complete bed frame.
The overall bed may be wider or longer depending on the thickness of the side rails, headboard, footboard and upholstery. Winged headboards and curved footboards can increase the total footprint considerably.
Always check the complete external measurements before ordering.
The Dream Weaver kids bedis a stylish and comfortable option for your child's bedroom.
It features a modern design with a tall, tufted headboard and a plush velvet fabric. The bed is also available in a variety of colours to match your child's decor.
| Bed size | Frame Length | Headboard Width | Footboard Height |
| 3ft Single | 211cm | 115cm | 48cm |
| 4ft small Double | 211cm | 152cm | 48cm |
Who Is a Single Bed Suitable For?
- Children
- Teenagers
- Adult solo sleepers
- Guest bedrooms
- Box rooms
- Shared bedrooms
- Student accommodation
- Rental properties
A standard single mattress provides the same 190 cm length as a UK small double or standard double mattress. This means that a single bed can still provide enough length for many adults while using less bedroom space.
Taller sleepers may prefer a king size bed because UK king and super king mattresses are 200 cm long.
A well-made single bed can also remain suitable as a child grows into their teenage years. Choosing a durable design with a neutral fabric or colour can help the bed continue to suit the room as the décor changes.
Single Beds With Storage
A single storage bed can make better use of the space underneath the mattress.
Common options include:
Drawer storage
Drawers are built into the bed base and can be opened from the side. They are useful for separating smaller belongings, although enough floor space must be left for the drawers to open fully.
Ottoman storage
An ottoman bed lifts from the side or foot end to reveal storage inside the base. This can provide more open storage space for larger items such as spare bedding, pillows and seasonal clothing.
The best option will depend on the layout of the room and the available clearance around the bed.
Before ordering a single bed, measure the intended space carefully.
Check that there will still be enough room to:
- Open the bedroom door
- Access wardrobes and drawers
- Walk safely around the bed
- Reach plug sockets
- Use bedside furniture
- Operate any built-in storage
Marking the complete external bed measurements on the floor with masking tape can help you visualise how much room the bed will occupy.
You should also measure doorways, staircases and tight corners to make sure the individual bed components can be delivered into the bedroom.
Choosing the Correct Single Mattress
A standard UK single bed normally requires a mattress measuring 90 cm × 190 cm.
Check the exact mattress size stated on the product page before ordering. A mattress that is too large will not fit correctly, while a mattress that is too small may move inside the frame or leave visible gaps.
The correct mattress will also depend on the base. Some mattresses are suitable for divan bases, while others can be used on slatted or platform-style frames.
Is a Single Bed Right for You?
A single bed is a sensible option when bedroom space is limited or when the bed will be used by one person.
With upholstered, winged, divan and ottoman designs available, a single bed can provide both comfort and style without taking up unnecessary floor space.
Browse our range of customisable single beds to find a design, fabric, colour and storage option that suits your bedroom.
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