People today are getting used to the idea of living in smaller spaces (whether they like it or not) and this can present a problem when it comes to buying large pieces of furniture, especially beds. Some bedrooms barely have enough room for a standard double bed and with those that do getting a bed in there, via tight staircases and narrow entrances, can be a problem in itself.
There’s also the fact that a lot of people are also living alone and although a double bed is preferable, they may be happy to compromise a little on the actual size.
It’s no wonder then that small size double beds are becoming such a popular option. They are generally about the same length as a normal double but about 6 inches narrower – and that can make all the difference. So it is a compromise in comfort, but not really that much.
Double Bed Sizes
So, technically, what size is a small double in comparison to its traditional counterpart? The short answer is 15 cm (6″) narrower but, officially:
- A standard double typically measures 137 cm wide x 190 cm long; that’s 54″ × 75″ (4’6″ × 6’3″) in old money.
- A small double normally measures 122 cm wide x 190 cm long, or 48″ × 75″ (4′ × 6’3″).
Of course, actual sizes will vary a bit depending on the design but anything smaller than the official double size will be called a ‘small double’ or a ‘4 foot bed’. Until you get to 76 cm (30″) wide and then it’s a single.
Mattresses
A small double mattress measures 120 cm x 190 cm and you can find a good selection of these via amazon.co.uk, johnlewis.com and very.co.uk
Small Double Bed Designs
The good news, also, is that you certainly don’t have to compromise in style because just about every kind of bed comes in a ‘small double’ size. The beds below are just a sample of what you’ll find.
Dawson Hfe Small Double – a country cottage style wooden bed frame available in all white or white with oak cappings. L201 × W131 × H100 cm. From £169 https://thefurnitureco.uk/bedroom at very.co.uk
Wilton Bed Frame – a solid wood bed frame with a large slatted headboard. Available in white, grey or with a natural or dark coloured stain. L202 × W129 × H102 cm. £199 from johnlewis.com
Charcoal Grey Luxury Suede Divan Bed – this divan with faux suede upholstery comes complete with a headboard and mattress. There’s also two handy storage drawers in the base. amazon.co.uk
Silentnight Miracoil Celine Divan with Storage Options – a divan style bed with the option of 2 or 4 storage drawers in the base. Available in white or slate grey. L190 × W120 × H60 cm. From £239 at very.co.uk
Marston Faux Leather Lift Up Storage Bed – a trendy bed frame upholstered in brown or black faux leather complete with a matching padded headboard. The base also lifts up to reveal a large storage space underneath. L202 × W128 cm. From £279 (plus standard delivery charge of £19.99 or £24.99) at very.co.uk
Morgan Bed Frame – a contemporary style solid oak bed frame with pine slatted base. L199 × W127 × H100 cm. £399 from johnlewis.com
Very Boutique Divan with Headboard and Storage – a luxury option with a 1000 pocket spring mattress and memory foam layer and a crushed velvet upholstered base and headboard. There is also a storage option with the addition of 2 or 4 drawers underneath. L199 × W132 × H132 cm. From £849 (plus standard delivery charge of £19.99 or £24.99) at very.co.uk
See also…
Metal Bedsteads
Storage Beds