Is a Queen Bigger Than Double Size Mattress? The Real Size Breakdown

Is a Queen Size Mattress Bigger Than a Double? Understanding the UK’s “Small Double” Confusion, When shopping for a mattress in the UK, the term “Queen Size” can be surprisingly confusing. Unlike in the US or Europe, where mattress sizes like “Queen” and “King” follow consistent measurements, the UK market uses terms more loosely. Most notably, many UK retailers refer to the Small Double mattress (120 x 190 cm) as a “Queen.” So the real question becomes:

Is a UK Queen Size (Small Double) mattress bigger than a Double?

No — a Small Double (Queen) is actually smaller than a standard Double.

Mattress Type	Dimensions (cm)	Width Comparison
Small Double (Queen)	120 x 190	–
Double	135 x 190	+15 cm wider

1. Understanding Mattress Size Terminology

Before diving into measurements, it’s important to note that mattress terminology differs by region:

• In the UK, the term “Queen” is not officially standardised. A Small Double (120 x 190 cm) is often informally referred to as a “Queen.”
• In Europe, “Euro Queen” refers to a 160 x 200 cm mattress.
• In the US, a standard Queen size is 60 x 80 inches (approximately 152 x 203 cm).

This variation in naming leads to confusion. When we ask “Is a queen bigger than a double?”—we must first clarify which queen and which double.

2. Standard Mattress Sizes at a Glance

Let’s look at how the most common sizes compare:

Mattress Size	Dimensions (cm)	Best For
Single	90 x 190	Kids, teens, small guest rooms
Small Double (Queen)	120 x 190	Solo adults, small bedrooms
Double	135 x 190	Couples with limited space
UK King	150 x 200	Couples who want more room
Super King	180 x 200	Luxury spaces, co-sleeping

3. What Is a Small Double (Queen) Mattress?

A Small Double mattress measures 120 x 190 cm and is the size often referred to as “Queen” in the UK market. It’s wider than a single but not quite as roomy as a standard double.

Who is it for?

• Solo adults wanting extra room to stretch
• Teenagers transitioning from single beds
• Small bedrooms where every cm counts

Advantages:

• Compact yet spacious for one person
• Fits in small to medium bedrooms
• More affordable than double or king options

Drawbacks:

• Can be tight for two people
• Limited bedding availability compared to standard sizes

4. What Is a Double Mattress?

A Double mattress is 135 x 190 cm and is traditionally viewed as the first standard couple’s bed. It provides 15 cm more width than a Small Double.

Who is it for?

• Budget-conscious couples
• Solo sleepers wanting generous space
• Guest rooms or modest master bedrooms

Advantages:

• Affordable and widely available
• Works in most UK bedrooms
• More space for couples than small double

Drawbacks:

• Can still feel cramped for two, especially for restless sleepers

5. Size Comparison: Small Double vs Double

Let’s break it down clearly:

• Width
  • Small Double: 120 cm
  • Double: 135 cm
  • Difference: 15 cm more space in a Double
• Length
  • Both are 190 cm long
• Surface Area
  • Small Double: 22,800 cm²
  • Double: 25,650 cm²
  • Difference: 2,850 cm², or ~12.5% more surface area in a Double

This difference in space can make a noticeable difference in comfort, especially for two people sharing the bed.

6. How Much Room Do You Need?

To sleep comfortably and maintain good room flow, consider these spacing guidelines:

• 60–70 cm of clearance on each side of the bed
• 90 cm at the foot of the bed for easy movement

Room Size Tips:

• Small Double (Queen): Room should be at least 2.3 metres wide
• Double: Room should be 2.4–2.5 metres wide for optimal flow

7. Who Should Choose a Small Double?

• Solo sleepers needing more than a single
• Teenagers in their own room
• Guest bedrooms with limited space
• Budget buyers who want compact comfort

A small double works well for people who don’t share their bed or need a compact solution that doesn’t sacrifice comfort entirely.

8. Who Should Choose a Double?

• Couples who are okay with less space
• Guest rooms needing to fit two adults
• Solo sleepers wanting extra space and comfort
• Budget-conscious master bedrooms

For couples who don’t toss and turn much or are used to tighter spaces, the double can still work. But if personal space matters, it might not be ideal.

9. Bedding and Compatibility

Small Double:

• May require more specific bedding (not as widely stocked)
• Often found in student bedding ranges or at IKEA

Double:

• Bedding is universally available across the UK
• Usually cheaper and easier to find

Buying Tip: Always check the labelled size on packaging. “Queen” can mean 120 or 160 cm depending on the store.

10. Personal Story: Why I Moved from Small Double to Double

In my 20s, I moved into my first flat and bought a “Queen size” bed from an online retailer. I later found out it was actually a Small Double. At first, it was great for just me, but when my partner moved in, we found ourselves bumping elbows more than sleeping peacefully.

We upgraded to a Double, and it made a significant difference. That extra 15 cm gave us enough space to sleep without constantly waking each other. It fit the room just fine with some rearranging, and I could finally buy bedding from local shops without special orders.

11. Common Confusion: UK Queen vs Euro Queen

• UK Queen = Small Double = 120 x 190 cm
• Euro Queen = 160 x 200 cm (bigger than a UK King)

Many retailers use “Queen” for both, so always check dimensions before assuming size. The Euro Queen is 40 cm wider than a UK Small Double, so you don’t want to get the wrong frame or bedding.

12. Final Verdict

If you’re comparing a UK Queen (Small Double) to a Double, the Double is definitely larger, offering better space, more comfort for two, and easier bedding options.

Choose a Small Double if:

• You sleep alone
• Your room is tight on space
• You’re upgrading from a single bed

Choose a Double if:

• You’re sleeping as a couple
• You have a medium-sized room
• You want more room to stretch

Bonus Tips Before You Buy

• Measure your room before choosing your mattress size
• Don’t rely on labels, check actual measurements
• Consider your future needs: Will a partner be joining you soon?

Conclusion

A mattress isn’t just about comfort, it’s about function, fit, and long-term satisfaction. While the Queen (Small Double)can suit many UK homes, a Double mattress offers more value and space for most sleepers. Choosing the right size from the start can dramatically improve your sleep quality and how well your bedroom works.