Double Bed

Why Choose a Double Bed for your Room?

A double bed is one of the most versatile bed sizes for UK homes. It offers more sleeping space than a single or small double without taking up as much room as a king or super king. For couples, a double provides a standard shared sleeping area. For one person, it offers additional room to stretch out without requiring the floor space of a larger frame.

Double beds also work well in guest rooms because they can accommodate either one or two sleepers. This makes them a practical choice where the room needs to remain flexible. When comparing beds for sale, focus on the full product specification rather than appearance alone. The right bed should fit the room comfortably, work with your chosen mattress and leave enough space for wardrobes, bedside tables and normal movement.

What Is the Standard Double Bed Size?

A standard UK double bed size is typically based on a mattress measuring approximately:

135 cm wide x 190 cm long

This measurement applies to the double mattress, not the complete frame. A double bed frame will usually be larger because of the headboard, side rails and footboard. Upholstered frames can be especially generous in their external dimensions.

Before buying, measure the available floor space and compare it with the full frame dimensions shown on the product page.

Also consider:

- Bedroom door clearance
- Wardrobe access
- Space for bedside tables
- Walking room around the bed
- Delivery access through hallways and stairs

These checks are especially important in medium-sized bedrooms where a few extra centimetres can affect how comfortably the room functions.

Double Bed Frame: What Should You Look For?

The bed frame provides the structure that supports your mattress, so size, base type and construction matter. When choosing a double bed frame, check:

- Overall width and length
- Headboard height
- Base type
- Under-bed clearance
- Storage features
- Mattress compatibility
- Assembly requirements

Two frames designed for the same double mattress can have noticeably different footprints. For example, a padded upholstered frame may be wider than a simple wooden design. A tall headboard can also affect placement if the bed sits beneath shelving, windows or a sloping ceiling.

If bedroom space is limited, a more compact frame can help preserve useful floor area without reducing the mattress size.

Double Bed With Storage

Storage beds can make a double more practical, particularly in smaller bedrooms. Ottoman designs use a lifting base to provide access to storage beneath the mattress. This can be useful for spare bedding, seasonal clothing and other items that would otherwise require separate furniture.

Drawer storage is another option, although sufficient side clearance is needed to open drawers fully. A storage double bed can be especially useful when you want to reduce the need for a separate chest of drawers or storage boxes elsewhere in the room.

Choosing a Double Mattress

The double bed mattress has a major influence on how the bed feels, so it should be selected carefully. First, make sure the mattress dimensions match the frame.

A standard UK double mattress is typically approximately 135 x 190 cm, but always confirm the specification before ordering.

Then consider firmness, support, construction and your preferred sleeping position. A mattress that feels comfortable to one person may feel too firm or too soft to another. If two people share the double bed, both sleepers' preferences should be considered.

Double Bed vs Small Double Bed

A small double and standard double differ mainly in width. A small double mattress is generally around 120 cm wide, while a standard double mattress is approximately 135 cm wide.

That additional width can make a noticeable difference for two sleepers. Choose a standard double bed when:

- Two adults regularly share the bed
- The room has enough width
- Extra sleeping space matters
- A full double fits without restricting movement

Choose a Small Double Bedwhen bedroom width is limited and saving floor space is more important. The best option depends on the room as much as the sleeper.

Double Bed vs King Size Bed

A king-size bed provides more width and length than a standard double. For couples who value additional personal sleeping space, a king can be worthwhile if the bedroom is large enough.

A double bed, however, is easier to accommodate in many UK bedrooms and can leave more space for other furniture. Choose a double if you want a practical balance between sleeping area and room footprint.

Choose a King Size Bed if the bedroom comfortably supports a larger frame and extra sleeping space is a priority. Always compare full frame dimensions rather than mattress size alone.

How to Measure Your Room Before Buying

Before ordering a double bed, measure the exact area where the frame will sit.

Allow for:

- Bedside tables
- Wardrobe doors
- Bedroom doors
- Radiators
- Drawers
- Walking space

Use masking tape to mark the frame footprint on the floor. This gives a more realistic view of how much room the bed will occupy. Then measure the delivery route.

Check doorways, hallways, staircases, landings and tight turns. Large headboards can be particularly difficult to manoeuvre through restricted spaces. If the product is supplied in several sections, check component or package dimensions where available.

Maintaining a Double Bed Frame

Maintenance depends on the material and construction of the bed frame. For upholstered frames, vacuum the headboard, side rails and seams using an appropriate attachment. Treat spills promptly according to the fabric care instructions.

Wooden frames can usually be dusted with a soft cloth. For storage beds, keep the under-bed area organised and avoid exceeding any stated weight limits. If the frame uses an ottoman mechanism, operate it as intended and avoid forcing the base if something is obstructing movement.

Periodically checking accessible fittings can also help keep the structure secure.

Why Buy a Double Bed From Furniture Instore?

Furniture Instore's double beds collection gives customers a practical choice for main bedrooms, guest rooms and individual sleepers who want more space than a single. You can compare different double bed frame styles, storage options and compatible mattress choices according to your room and sleeping requirements.

Most in-stock beds are available for delivery within 7–10 working days, subject to stock availability, delivery area and suitable access. Before ordering, confirm the full frame dimensions, mattress requirements and delivery route. Once those practical checks are complete, choose the design that best fits your bedroom and sleeping needs.