Bedding Sizes: How to Choose the Perfect Fit for Your Bed
Ever bought sheets that felt like a tent or a duvet that slid off the corners? It happens when you don’t match the bedding to the mattress. The fix is simple: know the exact dimensions of your bed and pick the right size for sheets, duvet covers and pillows. Below we break down the most common UK sizes, show you how to measure your mattress, and give quick tips to avoid the worst fit nightmares.
Standard UK Mattress and Sheet Sizes
In the UK the core sizes are Single (90 × 190 cm), Double (135 × 190 cm), King (150 × 200 cm) and Super King (180 × 200 cm). If you have a European or continental bed, you might see 140 × 200 cm or 160 × 200 cm options – they’re just a bit longer. When buying sheets, always look for a ‘fitted’ sheet that matches the exact mattress dimensions, plus a little extra for the tuck‑in depth (usually 30 cm). A flat sheet should be at least 10 cm longer and wider than the mattress, so it drapes nicely without looking short.
Duvet, Pillow, and Cover Choices
Duvet sizes follow a similar pattern but add a comfort margin. A Single duvet normally runs 135 × 200 cm, Double 200 × 200 cm, King 220 × 220 cm and Super King 240 × 260 cm. Picking a duvet a bit larger than the mattress helps keep the edges covered when you toss and turn. For pillows, the most common sizes are 50 × 75 cm (standard) and 50 × 65 cm (European). Make sure the pillowcase fits snugly – a loose case can cause the pillow to shift and feel uncomfortable.
Measuring your mattress yourself is easy. Grab a tape measure, note the width, length and depth at the side, then add the depth to the sheet size you need. If you have a pillow top or a mattress topper, include that in the depth measurement. This quick step saves you from buying a set that needs swapping later.
One more tip: if you’re buying online, check the retailer’s size guide. Some brands label a “Queen” size differently, and a few use inches instead of centimeters. Converting is straightforward – just multiply inches by 2.54 to get cm. Double‑check the numbers before you click “Add to basket”.
Now you’ve got the basics: know your mattress dimensions, match sheets, pick a slightly larger duvet for coverage, and grab the right pillow size. Follow these steps and you’ll never have a blanket that looks like a slipcover again. Happy sleeping!
