How to Choose the Right Double Mattress for your Room?

How to work out the best double bed mattress for your room size?

To work out the best double bed mattress for your room, start by measuring your floor space in centimetres (for example, a room that’s 300 cm wide by 360 cm long). You’ll want at least 60 cm of clearance on each side and at the foot to move around comfortably. So, subtract twice the side clearance and one foot-end clearance from your measurements:

• Width for the double bed mattress = Room width − (2 × 60 cm) → 300 cm − 120 cm = 180 cm
• Length for the double bed mattress = Room length − 60 cm → 360 cm − 60 cm = 300 cm

Next, compare those figures to standard double mattress dimensions:

• UK double: 135 cm × 190 cm
• US full (double): 137 cm × 191 cm

If your available width (180 cm) and length (300 cm) both exceed the mattress dimensions, a standard double will fit nicely. If you find you have more space, say you end up with over 150 cm of width after clearance, you could even go for a small king (150 cm × 200 cm). By doing this simple subtraction, you ensure the mattress fits your room and leaves you room to walk around without squeezing past the bed.

What not to do when buying a double bed mattress?

To avoid mistakes when buying a double bed mattress, follow these guidelines:

Don’t Ignore Room Dimensions: A standard double mattress measures 135cm (width) x 190cm (length). Avoid purchasing one if your room is smaller than 3m x 3m, as it may leave less than 60cm of clearance on each side, restricting movement. 

Don’t Overlook Delivery Pathways: Ensure doorways are at least 70cm wide and staircases have a minimum 45-degree angle for smooth delivery. Mattresses compressed to 30–40cm thickness simplify tight spaces. Also, moving a double bed mattress to your home will be easier.

Don’t Forget Bed Frame Compatibility: Check if the mattress fits your frame. For example, slatted frames require mattresses 15–25cm thick to prevent sagging, while thicker options (25–30cm) suit solid bases. 

Don’t Prioritize Aesthetics Over Support: Avoid mattresses softer than 3.5–4.5 (medium-firm) on the firmness scale if you weigh over 90kg, as they may lack lumbar support.

Don’t Skip Trial Periods: Go for brands offering at least a 30-night trial. Avoid retailers with restocking fees exceeding 15–20% for returns.

Don’t Neglect Weight Limits: Double mattresses typically support 180–230kg. Exceeding these risks, sagging, and check density (≥1.8kg per cubic foot for durability) for heavier users.

By avoiding these missteps, you’ll ensure your mattress fits your space, frame, and comfort needs without compromising long-term value.

How to choose a double bed mattress based on the sleeping position?

To choose a double bed mattress based on your sleeping position, follow these guidelines:

Back Sleepers: Go for a medium-firm mattress (4–6/10 firmness) with zoned lumbar support. A thickness of 25–30cm ensures spine alignment without sinking too deeply.

Side Sleepers: Select a softer mattress (3–4/10 firmness) with ≥4cm pressure-relieving foam (memory or latex) to cushion hips and shoulders. Mattresses thinner than 20cm may lack contouring.

Stomach Sleepers: Choose a firmer mattress (6–7.5/10 firmness) and a ≤25cm thickness to prevent spinal misalignment. Avoid ultra-plush toppers that elevate hips.

Combination Sleepers: Prioritize a medium-firm (5–6/10 firmness), responsive mattress (e.g., hybrid or latex) with ≥30cm thickness to adapt to shifting positions.

Consider Material Density: For foam mattresses, aim for ≥3.5lb/ft³ density to balance durability and comfort. Heavier users (≥90kg) may need ≥4lb/ft³ for adequate support. 

Aligning your mattress with your primary sleeping position ensures proper spinal alignment, pressure relief, and long-term comfort.

Where to buy a double bed mattress?

For those interested in a double bed mattress collection, Mattress Mick presents a reputable option worth considering. Mattress Mick also features a diverse lineup of single bed mattresses, available in numerous sizes and material options.

Is a Double Bed Mattress Good for Small Rooms?

Yes, double bed mattresses (135cm x 190cm) can work in small rooms if planned carefully. Here’s how to decide:

Check Room Dimensions: 

Your room should be at least 3m x 3m to accommodate the mattress with 60cm clearance on all sides for movement. 

For rooms under 2.7m x 2.7m, a double bed may dominate the space, leaving less than 50cm for walkways. 

Go for Space-Saving Designs:

Use a slim bed frame (under 15cm thick) to minimize total footprint.

Choose a mattress ≤25cm thick if your ceiling is below 2.4m to avoid overcrowding vertically.

Prioritize Functionality:

Avoid bulky headboards; opt for wall-mounted shelves or storage beds (e.g., ottoman beds with 30–50L storage).

Leave 70–90cm width between the bed and other furniture (e.g., wardrobe, desk) for accessibility.

Test Layout Efficiency:

Use painter’s tape to mark the mattress and furniture placement, ensuring ≥60cm pathways remain.

Double beds work in small rooms if you prioritize measurements, minimalism, and multifunctional furniture. For ultra-compact spaces (under 2.5m x 2.5m), consider a smaller mattress (e.g., 120cm-wide double).

Should You Consider Body weight when choosing a double bed mattress?

Yes, you absolutely should consider body weight when choosing a double bed mattress, both your own weight and your partner's if you share the bed. Body weight significantly impacts how a mattress feels and performs in several key ways.

Firmness Level:

Below 130 lbs (59 kg): Go for soft to medium (3-5 on a 10-point firmness scale) to avoid excessive pressure on joints.

130–230 lbs (59–104 kg): Medium-firm (5-7) balances support and contouring, preventing sagging.

Above 230 lbs (104 kg): Firm or extra-firm (7-9) ensures proper spinal alignment and reduces sinkage.

Material Type:

Memory Foam: High-density foam (≥4 lbs/cubic foot) suits heavier individuals for lasting support.

Latex/Hybrid: Natural resilience or hybrid coils (12-14 gauge) offer durability for weights above 200 lbs (91 kg).

Innerspring: Thicker coils (12-14 gauge) paired with cushioning layers work well for average to heavy builds.

Durability:

Heavier weights compress materials faster. Look for reinforced edges, thicker comfort layers (≥4-6 inches), and warranties ≥10 years.

Pressure Relief:

Softer foams (≤3.5 lbs density) may cause heavier users to sink excessively, straining pressure points.

The "Double Bed" Factor (Two Sleepers):

When two people share a double bed, considering both weights is crucial.

Similar Weights: If you and your partner have similar weights, choosing a firmness level suitable for that weight range is more straightforward. 

Significant Weight Difference: This is where it gets trickier. A mattress ideal for the lighter partner might feel unsupportive to the heavier one, while a mattress firm enough for the heavier partner might feel too hard for the lighter one. Look for medium-firm options (often a good compromise) or mattresses specifically designed to accommodate different weights, possibly with zoned support.

Motion Isolation:

If there's a notable weight difference between partners, how well the mattress absorbs movement (motion isolation) becomes very important. A mattress with poor motion isolation means a heavier person turning over could significantly disturb a lighter partner. Memory foam and pocketed coil mattresses often excel here.