Why EU sizes matter in UK homes#
European mattress sizes are increasingly common in the UK because IKEA, one of the UK's most popular furniture retailers, uses EU dimensions throughout their bed frame range. If you own an IKEA MALM, HEMNES, SONGESAND or any other IKEA bed, you need EU-size mattresses. A standard UK double (135 × 190 cm) will not correctly fit an IKEA double frame (140 × 200 cm).
EU vs UK mattress dimensions#
| Size | EU dimensions | Nearest UK size | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single | 90 × 200 cm | 90 × 190 cm | EU is 10 cm longer |
| Double | 140 × 200 cm | 135 × 190 cm | EU is 5 cm wider, 10 cm longer |
| King | 160 × 200 cm | 150 × 200 cm | EU is 10 cm wider |
| Super King | 180 × 200 cm | 180 × 200 cm | Identical |
IKEA mattress alternatives#
You don't have to buy an IKEA mattress for an IKEA frame, but you do need EU dimensions. UK brands offering EU sizes include Silentnight, Sealy, and some online brands (Emma offers EU single; EU double availability varies by brand). Always confirm EU dimensions before purchasing from a non-IKEA brand.
Measuring your bed frame#
Measure the internal sleeping surface of your bed frame (the area the mattress sits in), not the outer frame dimensions. A mattress should fit snugly with no more than 2–3 cm gap on any side, wider gaps create an uneven sleep surface and allow the mattress to shift.
Can you use a UK mattress on an EU frame?#
A UK double (135 cm) on an EU double frame (140 cm) would leave a 5 cm gap on one side, noticeable and potentially hazardous if you roll into the gap. A UK single (190 cm long) on an EU single frame (200 cm) would leave a 10 cm gap at the foot. Neither is recommended. Always match mattress and frame dimensions.
Getting a mattress that fits an EU frame#
You have three options: buy an EU-size mattress from a brand that makes them, have a UK maker cut one to size, or buy a UK mattress and accept the gap. The second option is the one most people do not know exists.
| Frame | Mattress size | Nearest UK size | Gap if you use the UK size |
|---|---|---|---|
| IKEA single | 90 × 200cm | UK single 90 × 190cm | 10cm short at the foot |
| IKEA double | 140 × 200cm | UK double 135 × 190cm | 5cm narrow, 10cm short |
| IKEA king | 160 × 200cm | UK king 150 × 200cm | 10cm narrow |
| IKEA super king | 180 × 200cm | UK super king 180 × 200cm | None – identical |
Westwood Memory Foam, Superior Cashmere and the rest of The Foam People range are cut to order in any size, so a 140 × 200cm or 160 × 200cm foam mattress costs roughly what the nearest standard size does. That is the simplest way to fill an IKEA double or king frame properly. Emma and Luxe sell UK sizes; check their sites for EU options before assuming.
Frequently asked questions#
Will a UK mattress fit an IKEA bed?#
Only a super king fits exactly (both 180 × 200cm). UK singles and doubles are 10cm shorter than IKEA's, and a UK king is 10cm narrower than an IKEA king. The gaps look untidy and let bedding slip; they are not dangerous on an adult bed.
Where can I buy an EU-size mattress in the UK?#
IKEA sells its own; some online brands offer EU sizes on request; and made-to-order foam makers such as The Foam People will cut any dimension you specify at close to standard prices.
Can I use an EU mattress on a UK bed frame?#
A 200cm-long mattress on a 190cm frame overhangs by 10cm at the foot, which is unsupported and will sag. A 140cm-wide mattress on a 135cm frame overhangs 2.5cm each side. Neither is recommended; match mattress to frame.
Will UK bedding fit an EU mattress?#
Fitted sheets are the problem; UK doubles are cut for 135 × 190cm and will not stretch to 140 × 200cm. Buy EU-size fitted sheets (IKEA and most large retailers sell them). Duvets and flat sheets are fine.
Related reading#
- UK mattress sizes guide – every UK dimension
- Best single mattress UK – including the EU single for tall adults
- The Foam People review – the made-to-measure brand
- Best super king mattress – the one size that fits both systems
- Divan bed vs bed frame – if you are choosing the frame too
