Ever tried to buy a mattress abroad and got confused by the sizes? You’re not alone.
Shopping for a bed in Europe when you’re used to US sizes can feel like solving a puzzle. A “King” size in America isn’t the same as a “King” in Europe.
The differences go beyond just names – the actual measurements are different too.
This happens because Europe uses centimeters while the US uses inches. Plus, each region has its way of naming mattress sizes.
Understanding the differences between European bed sizes and American standards can help you avoid purchasing a mattress that doesn’t fit your bedroom or bed frame.
Getting the wrong size means expensive returns, uncomfortable sleep, and frustrated shopping experiences.
Why European and US Mattress Measurements Are Different
Europe follows the metric system, so all European mattress sizes are measured in centimeters. Most European mattresses are 200 cm long as a standard.
The US uses inches for measurements. American bed sizes in the USA are larger than European sizes, with most being either 75 or 80 inches long.
Standard Mattress Sizes in the United States
Here are the most common bed sizes USA shoppers will find across the country. These measurements have been standard for decades and are used by almost every mattress manufacturer in America.
- Twin: 38″ x 75″ (96.5 x 191 cm)
- Twin XL: 38″ x 80″ (96.5 x 203 cm)
- Full/Double: 54″ x 75″ (137 x 191 cm)
- Queen: 60″ x 80″ (152 x 203 cm)
- King: 76″ x 80″ (193 x 203 cm)
- California King: 72″ x 84″ (183 x 213 cm)
These sizes work well for most American homes and bedroom layouts.
Standard European Bed Sizes You’ll Find
European bed sizes are simpler and more uniform across countries. Most European mattress sizes stick to the same 200 cm length, making shopping easier once you know the system.
- Single: 90 x 200 cm (35.4″ x 78.7″)
- Double: 140 x 200 cm (55″ x 78.7″)
- King: 160 x 200 cm (63″ x 78.7″)
- Grand King: 180 x 200 cm (71″ x 78.7″)
| Note: Some countries use 160 x 200 cm for European King, while “Super King” can be even wider. |
The consistency in length makes European bed sizes much easier to understand than the variety found in bed sizes in the USA.
Complete Size Comparison Chart
Comparing European mattress sizes with bed sizes in the USA becomes much clearer when you see the numbers side by side.
This comprehensive table shows all the standard sizes and their exact measurements.
| Size Name | US Mattress Size | Europe Mattress Size | Europe Size (inches) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Twin/Single | 38″ x 75″ (96 x 191 cm) | 90 x 200 cm | 36″ x 78″ |
| Twin XL | 38″ x 80″ (96 x 203 cm) | 90 x 210 cm (Extra Long) | 36″ x 82″ |
| Full/Double | 54″ x 75″ (137 x 191 cm) | 140 x 200 cm | 55″ x 78″ |
| Queen | 60″ x 80″ (152 x 203 cm) | 160 x 200 cm | 63″ x 79″ |
| King | 76″ x 80″ (193 x 203 cm) | 180 x 200 cm | 71″ x 79″ |
| Cal King | 72″ x 84″ (183 x 213 cm) | 200 x 200 cm | 79″ x 79″ |
Additional Common European Sizes:
- Small Single: 80 x 200 cm (31″ x 79″)
- Large Single: 100 x 200 cm (39″ x 79″)
- Extra-Large Double (Netherlands/Continental): 200 x 210 cm (79″ x 83″) and up to 220 cm (87″ long)
Notice how European bed sizes are consistently longer than most American sizes, and Europe offers more variety in single bed options.
How Different European Countries Handle Mattress Sizes
Each region has its twist on mattress sizing, and these differences can be pretty surprising. The UK uses slightly different measurements from the rest of Europe, while some countries have their special sizes.
1. United Kingdom Specific Sizes: The UK follows its system, which differs from both the US and continental Europe. UK mattresses are typically shorter than European mattress sizes:
- UK Single: 90 x 190 cm (35″ x 75″)
- UK Double: 135 x 190 cm (53″ x 75″)
- UK King: 150 x 200 cm (59″ x 79″)
- UK Super King: 180 x 200 cm (71″ x 79″)
2. Netherlands and Germany: These countries often offer extra-large sizes that you won’t find elsewhere. Dutch beds can be massive, with some reaching 220 cm in length (87 inches).
3. Scandinavian Countries: Norway, Sweden, and Denmark typically follow the standard European bed sizes, but they also offer “family beds” that can be 200 x 210 cm or even larger.
4. France and Italy: These countries stick closely to the standard European mattress sizes, but French mattresses sometimes come in 140 x 190 cm instead of the usual 200 cm length.
Fun Fact: Did you know that California King mattresses are actually narrower than regular King size beds? Despite the name suggesting something bigger, they’re just longer and thinner.
Simple Ways to Compare Mattress Sizes
Converting to a single unit makes it much easier to compare European mattress sizes with bed sizes in the USA.
| Step | Action | Example |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Pick one unit (cm or inches) | Use inches if you are familiar with US sizes |
| 2 | Convert using cm × 0.39 = inches | 160 cm = 63 inches |
| 3 | Compare the width first | European King (63″) vs US Queen (60″) |
| 4 | Check the length for tall sleepers | European (79″) vs US (75″-80″) |
A European King (160 cm) equals 63 inches wide. That’s 3 inches wider than a US Queen (60″) but 13 inches narrower than a US King (76″).
Quick conversion reference for European bed sizes:
| Metric | Inches | Use |
|---|---|---|
| 160 cm | 63″ | European King width |
| 180 cm | 71″ | European Grand King width |
| 200 cm | 79″ | Standard European length |
Width Priority Guide: When shopping for two people, prioritize width over length for most couples. European bed sizes tend to be narrower but longer, while bed sizes in the USA are often wider but shorter.
UK vs US Mattress Sizes: Not the Same
Many people think UK and US sizes are identical because both countries use similar names and imperial measurements. This isn’t true, and the differences can cause expensive mistakes.
1. The Name Game Problem: Both countries use names like “Double,” “King,” and “Single,” but the actual sizes are entirely different. A UK King is much smaller than a US King in both width and length.
2. Detailed UK vs US Comparison:
- UK Single: 90 x 190 cm (35″ x 75″) vs US Twin: 38″ x 75″
- UK Double: 135 x 190 cm (53″ x 75″) vs US Full: 54″ x 75″
- UK King: 150 x 200 cm (59″ x 79″) vs US King: 76″ x 80″
- UK Super King: 180 x 200 cm (71″ x 79″) vs US Cal King: 72″ x 84″
3. Why These Differences Matter: The biggest issue is that UK mattresses are generally narrower than their US counterparts. A UK King at 59 inches wide is closer to a US Queen (60 inches) than a US King (76 inches). This means if you move from the US to the UK with your bed frame, your new UK mattress might not fit properly.
4. Bedding Complications: UK and US sheets are not interchangeable. UK bedding follows different sizing standards, and even if the mattress dimensions were close, the fitted sheet corner depths and flat sheet sizes would still be wrong.
5. Historical Reasons: The UK developed its mattress sizes based on traditional British bed-making practices and room sizes in older homes. The US created its standards for different living spaces and different customer needs.
Essential Things to Consider When Buying
Room size matters just as much as mattress size. European mattress sizes are often longer than bed sizes in the USA, so measure your space first.
Fun Fact: The longest standard mattress you can buy is the California King at 84 inches long. That’s 7 feet of sleeping space!
- Bed Frame Fit: Make sure your imported mattress matches your existing frame
- Sheet Compatibility: European and US mattresses need different-sized sheets
- Bedroom Space: Larger European sizes might not work in smaller US bedrooms
- Sleep Needs: Think about your height, comfort preferences, and if you share the bed
Pro Tip: When choosing between European bed sizes and bed sizes in the USA, always prioritize the person who needs more space. If one partner is tall, consider European mattress sizes, as they’re consistently 200 cm long.
Wrapping Up: Size Matters When Shopping Internationally
Getting the right mattress size can make or break your sleep quality and room setup.
European mattress sizes and bed sizes in the USA follow completely different systems. The names might sound familiar, but the actual measurements tell a different story.
European bed sizes are typically longer and use metric measurements, while US sizes vary more in length and use imperial units.
Before you buy, always check the exact centimeter or inch measurements rather than trusting the size names.
This simple step can save you from expensive mistakes and ensure you get a mattress that fits perfectly in your space. Remember to consider your bed frame, sheets, and room size too.
Ready to find your perfect mattress size? Measure your space and compare the exact dimensions before you buy.
