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Choosing the perfect mattress is about a lot more than comfort. Size matters first. Get it wrong and you could be stuck squeezing into a bed that's too small or wrestling with a mattress that dominates your room. Before you think about firmness or materials, it’s smart to figure out the right size for your life, your space, and how you actually sleep.
- Single Mattress
A single mattress measures about 92 cm wide and 188 cm long. It’s the most compact option and often seen as the go-to for children's bedrooms.
It suits younger kids perfectly, but it’s also a good fit for teenagers who don’t need loads of room or for adults living in smaller apartments. If your bedroom space is really tight, a single can be a lifesaver. Plus, it’s easier to move and lighter to handle compared to bigger sizes. However, if you’re a taller person or someone who moves around a lot during sleep, a single bed will likely feel too cramped.
- King Single Mattress
Need a bit more room without committing to a much bigger bed? A king single measures around 107 cm wide and 203 cm long, giving you extra length and width compared to a regular single.
It’s a fantastic upgrade for teenagers, taller kids, or solo adults who want more stretching space without taking up too much of the room. It’s also a smart option for guest bedrooms where a little extra comfort matters, but space still needs to be considered.
King singles are increasingly popular because they offer that "just right" feeling without the footprint of a double or queen.
- Double Mattress
Stepping up, the double mattress sits at around 138 cm wide and 188 cm long. It used to be the standard choice for couples years ago, but standards have changed as people have grown to expect more personal space during sleep.
A double works well for solo sleepers who like room to move, or as a generous guest bed. However, for two adults sharing long-term, it can feel pretty tight, especially if either person is a restless sleeper.
If you're a single person who loves extra wriggle room, the double could be perfect. For couples, though, it's usually considered a bit on the small side these days.
Photo: Andrea Davis
- Queen Mattress
The queen mattress size has become the most common choice for adults, and it’s easy to see why. Measuring about 153 cm wide and 203 cm long, it hits the sweet spot between spacious and practical.
It’s comfortable enough for couples without overwhelming a standard-sized bedroom. Singles who love stretching out also find queens perfect because it offers luxury without being excessive.
If you're furnishing a master bedroom or upgrading from a double, a queen often feels like a major upgrade in space without feeling like the mattress takes over the whole room.
- King Mattress
When space and comfort are non-negotiable, the king mattress steps in. At 183 cm wide and 203 cm long, it's as wide as two singles side by side.
It’s ideal for couples who value personal space or for anyone who sometimes shares the bed with pets or young kids. There's less chance of bumping into each other during the night, and more room to settle into your ideal sleep position without compromise.
That said, a king-sized bed does need a fairly large bedroom to avoid feeling crowded. It's also heavier and a bit trickier to move, so think about access points like doorways and hallways before making the call.
- Super King Mattress
If you thought the king was generous, the super king takes it a step further. Sitting at around 203 cm wide and 203 cm long, it offers maximum room in every direction.
It’s perfect for families who co-sleep or for anyone who simply loves the idea of a truly massive bed. That said, super kings aren’t for everyone. You'll need a large bedroom and a bit of planning, as finding frames, sheets, and doonas to match can sometimes be more effort than with standard sizes.
Still, if you have the space and you want the ultimate in luxurious sleeping, it’s hard to beat a super king.
Things to Consider Before Choosing a Mattress Size
Size isn’t just about personal preference. Several practical factors come into play when you’re picking the right mattress. Here are some key things to weigh up:
- Bedroom size: Make sure there's enough space to move around the bed easily.
- Sleeping partner: If you're sharing, think about how much room you both need to sleep comfortably.
- Sleeping style: Restless sleepers usually need more space to avoid disturbing their partner.
- Future plans: Think long-term. Kids grow fast. Living situations change.
- Accessibility: Check that your chosen mattress will actually fit through doorways, hallways, or up stairs.
Choosing with these points in mind can save you a lot of stress (and second-guessing) later.
Final Tips Before You Decide...
Before you pull the trigger on a new mattress, it’s worth visiting a store and testing a few sizes in person if you can. Stretch out, roll over, and picture your usual sleeping habits. The difference between a king single and a double might not seem massive on paper, but your body will feel it immediately.
Also, take proper measurements of your bedroom. Visualising is good, but getting exact dimensions avoids nasty surprises later.
Remember, a mattress is a long-term investment in your comfort, your health, and your happiness. Getting the size right from the start makes everything else, from your sleep quality to your daily mood, just that little bit better.
