Bed and Mattress Buying Advice for UK Shoppers

Bed and mattress buying advice: start with the right size

The best bed and mattress choice depends first on the available space, then on the sleeper’s preferred firmness, mattress type and need for storage. For most UK bedrooms, the main choice is between a small double, standard double and king size.

A standard UK double mattress measures 135 × 190 cm. A small double measures 120 × 190 cm, while a standard king-size mattress measures 150 × 200 cm. IKEA’s UK size guide confirms that single, small double and standard double mattresses are 190 cm long, whereas king and super king mattresses are 200 cm long. You can check the UK mattress size guide before ordering.

The mattress size is not the same as the total size of the bed. Headboards, side rails and footboards make the frame larger, so measure the product dimensions rather than relying on the mattress label alone. IKEA also warns that UK and European bed sizes differ. This matters particularly when combining a frame from one retailer with a mattress from another.

Double bed frame: frame-only or complete set?

Buy a double bed frame on its own when you already have a suitable mattress or want to choose the mattress independently. Choose a double bed with mattress when compatibility and one combined purchase matter more.

A frame-only listing does not automatically include a mattress. Dedicated bed-and-mattress categories from IKEA, Dreams and Next Divan show that complete sets are sold separately from bed frames and mattresses. Dreams’ range includes both bed-frame-and-mattress combinations and packages containing a headboard, divan base and mattress.

Before paying, check these four details in the product description:

• Whether the mattress is included, rather than shown only in the product photograph.
• The exact UK size, such as small double, standard double or king.
• Whether the headboard, slats, divan base or storage drawers are included.
• The mattress type and firmness supplied with the frame.

Argos says its bed and mattress sizes match, so an Argos double mattress is designed to fit an Argos double bed. Even so, checking the stated dimensions remains sensible when buying across retailers or choosing an imported-looking frame. Argos’ mattress buying guide also gives the small double size as 120 × 190 cm and the king size as 150 × 200 cm.

Top 7 bed and mattress options to consider

These are seven worthwhile routes through the UK market, selected for different buying priorities. They are not all like-for-like products: some are named mattresses, some are complete IKEA combinations and some are set types offered by specialist retailers. Check the final configuration before ordering.

1. IKEA MALM standard double with Valevåg medium-firm mattress — a clear choice for shoppers wanting a named frame-and-mattress combination. IKEA listed it at £358, reduced from £408, on the bed-and-mattress category checked.
2. IKEA MALM standard double with Åbygda firm mattress — a complete standard double option listed at £408 on IKEA’s product page. It suits shoppers specifically seeking a firm mattress in a recognisable bed-frame format.
3. IKEA VESTERÖY standard double mattress — a pocket-sprung mattress available in medium-firm and firm versions. IKEA listed the medium-firm version at £149, reduced from £199, and its product page showed a rating of 4.2 out of 5 from 3,268 reviews.
4. IKEA VADSÖ standard double mattress — the lowest-priced standard double mattress listed in IKEA’s checked double-mattress category, at £99. It is a sprung mattress for shoppers buying a frame separately.
5. IKEA double-mattress range — a useful starting point when you want to compare foam, sprung, pocket-sprung and hybrid models in one retailer’s range. The checked category contained 12 products, with listed prices from £99 to £349.
6. Dreams Going Going Gone Set — the lowest “from” price shown on Dreams’ bed-and-mattress-set page, at £268. Dreams also listed the North Star Set from £368, the Classic Set from £598 and the Snooze Set from £628.
7. Next Divan bed-with-mattress set — a practical route for shoppers wanting a divan-style package. Next Divan says its bed-with-mattress sets include a bed frame, headboard and mattress, while its divan sets include a memory-foam mattress within the advertised price.

For a complete combination, compare what is physically included before comparing the headline price. A low “from” price may refer to one configuration, while a higher price may include a headboard, storage or a different mattress.

Double bed with mattress: what the price should include

A double bed with mattress should state both the frame and mattress in the included-items list. The safest comparison is the final package, not the price of the frame alone.

Dreams’ set page lists prices from £268 for the Going Going Gone Set, £368 for the North Star Set, £598 for the Classic Set and £628 for the Snooze Set. These are “from” prices, so check the selected size and components. The Dreams bed-and-mattress sets page is the appropriate place to verify the final package.

Small double bed with mattress: when it makes sense

A small double bed with mattress gives a couple more width than a single while using a 120 × 190 cm mattress. It can work well in a compact bedroom, guest room or room where a standard double would leave too little walking space.

Measure the room first, then check the frame’s outer width and length. The mattress itself is 120 × 190 cm, but the frame will be larger. Also consider access through doors and stairways, especially with a solid bed frame or divan.

A small double can feel restrictive for two adults compared with a standard double. If the room can accommodate a standard double and the sleepers value more personal space, the 135 × 190 cm size is the more spacious option. If floor area is the main constraint, the small double is the more practical compromise.

King-size bed and mattress: when to upgrade

A king-size bed and mattress measures 150 × 200 cm at mattress level, giving more width and 10 cm more length than a standard double. It is the better fit for taller sleepers or couples who want more room, provided the bedroom and access route can accommodate the larger frame.

King-size bed-and-mattress combinations are available in IKEA’s MALM range, and IKEA states that its king option is shown as £100 more than the standard double on the relevant product page. The final price depends on the selected mattress and configuration. For storage, compare the usable storage design with the available floor space: drawers need side clearance, while lift-up storage needs room to raise the base.

Bed and mattress storage options

Choose storage based on access and frequency of use. A divan can combine a base and mattress, with storage available on some models. IKEA describes its divan beds as consisting of a divan bed base and mattress, with storage options available on some models. Its divan bed range is a useful place to compare that format.

• Drawer storage: convenient for items used regularly, but the drawers need space to open.
• Ottoman-style storage: useful for bulky bedding, provided the lifting mechanism and access suit the room.
• Divan storage: keeps storage within the base and can be sold as part of a complete bed-and-mattress package.
• Frame without storage: often simpler around the room and may leave more open floor space underneath, depending on the design.

Do not compare a storage bed with a basic frame on price alone. Check whether the mattress, headboard, base and storage mechanism are all included.

Mattress type and firmness explained

Mattress choice should cover size, firmness, type and features. DFS identifies those as key considerations and advises matching the mattress to the corresponding bed size. IKEA’s double-mattress range includes foam, sprung, pocket-sprung and hybrid models.

Pocket springs are individual springs contained in fabric pockets. IKEA’s VESTERÖY standard double is a pocket-sprung model and is available in medium-firm and firm versions. Foam mattresses use foam as the main comfort material, while hybrid models combine spring and foam constructions. The label alone does not determine whether a mattress will feel comfortable to a particular sleeper.

There is no single firmness that is best for back pain. Which? says personal preferences differ and that an unsupportive mattress can contribute to poor posture in bed. Test the firmness where possible, and pay attention to support, sleeping position and whether both people can sleep comfortably.

How to compare a cheap bed and mattress

A cheap bed and mattress can be good value when the package includes the required components and the mattress suits the sleeper. Compare the complete cost and specification in this order:

1. Confirm the UK size and the frame’s external measurements.
2. Confirm whether the mattress, slats, base and headboard are included.
3. Compare mattress type and firmness rather than relying on the word “orthopaedic” or a sale label.
4. Check storage capacity and the clearance needed for drawers or lifting access.
5. Review delivery, assembly, mattress removal, warranty and returns before checkout.

Buying a separate frame and mattress can give you more control over firmness. A set can simplify matching and provide one combined price. Neither route is automatically better; the decision depends on the included components and the mattress specification.

Bed and mattress buying checklist

• Measure the bedroom, doorways and stair access.
• Choose small double, standard double or king based on both space and sleeping needs.
• Check whether the listing is for a frame, mattress or complete set.
• Match the exact mattress dimensions to the bed’s required size.
• Decide whether you need drawers, ottoman storage or a divan base.
• Compare firmness and construction, including foam, sprung, pocket-sprung or hybrid.
• Calculate the final delivered cost, including any optional services.

Frequently asked questions

What size is a standard UK double bed and mattress?

A standard UK double mattress is 135 × 190 cm. The bed frame will normally be larger, so check the full product measurements before ordering.

What size is a small double mattress?

A small double mattress is 120 × 190 cm. It offers more width than a single but less width than a standard double.

What size is a king-size mattress in the UK?

A standard UK king-size mattress is 150 × 200 cm. It is wider and longer than a standard double.

Is a mattress included with a bed?

Not always. Some listings cover the frame only, while bed-and-mattress categories contain products that include both. Read the included-items list carefully.

Will any double mattress fit any double bed?

A standard double mattress should match a standard double bed, but check the exact dimensions. UK and European sizes can differ, and the frame’s internal mattress space must be suitable.

What is the cheapest IKEA double mattress found?

The lowest listed IKEA standard double mattress in the checked category was the VADSÖ sprung mattress at £99.

What is the cheapest IKEA bed with mattress found?

The lowest clearly listed IKEA bed-and-mattress price was £358 for a MALM standard double with a Valevåg medium-firm mattress, shown as reduced from £408.

Are firm mattresses better for back pain?

No firmness is universally best for back pain. Which? says individual preferences differ and that an unsupportive mattress may contribute to poor posture in bed.