What Mattress Size Do You Need for a Kids’ Bunk Bed? UK Size Guide
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Quick answer
If your kids' bunk bed says it takes a 90 × 190 cm mattress, you want a standard UK Single (3'0") mattress.
A Small Single (2'6") is only around 75 cm wide, so it will leave a significant gap at the side.
The confusing part is that the overall dimensions of the bed aren't necessarily the mattress size. A bunk bed might measure roughly 195 × 98 cm externally while still being designed for a standard 90 × 190 cm single mattress.
Before ordering, always check the manufacturer's stated mattress dimensions rather than measuring the outside of the bed.
One extra thing that matters with bunk beds
Don't just check the length and width. Mattress depth is important too, particularly for the top bunk.
A mattress that's too thick can reduce the effective height of the safety guard rail. Check the bed manufacturer's maximum recommended mattress thickness before buying.
UK mattress sizes at a glance
| Mattress | Approx. size | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Small Single (2'6") | 75 × 190 cm | Narrow beds / very small rooms |
| Single (3'0") | 90 × 190 cm | Standard UK single beds and many bunk beds |
| European Single | 90 × 200 cm | European-sized bed frames |
So which one should I buy?
If the bunk bed specifies a 90 × 190 cm mattress, choose Single (3'0").
Don't choose Small Single simply because the outside of the bunk bed looks narrow. What matters is the manufacturer's specified mattress size, not the overall dimensions of the frame.
Also check the maximum mattress depth listed for the bunk bed. This is particularly important on the top bunk because a mattress that's too thick reduces the effective height of the guard rail. Always follow the maximum mattress depth specified by the bunk bed manufacturer.
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