In the UK, a 3/4 bed, also called a small double bed, is 120 cm wide and 190 cm long, which is 4 feet wide and 6 feet 3 inches long in imperial measurements. This bed size is a pretty good compromise between a standard single bed and a full double bed. It is becoming an increasingly popular choice for those wanting to maximize their bedroom space without sacrificing comfort.
Understanding the Dimensions
A small double bed measures 48 inches by 75 inches, which is equivalent to 120 cm by 190 cm. This makes the 3/4 bed 30 cm wider than a standard single bed, which is 90 cm wide. But it is 15 cm narrower than a traditional double bed, which spans 135 cm. The length stays the same at 190 cm for all of these sizes, which is enough room for people up to about 5 feet 11 inches tall to sleep.
What are the dimensions of a 3/4 bed in the UK? A small double bed size measures 120 cm wide and 190 cm long, which is 4 feet wide and 6 feet 3 inches long in imperial measurements.
It’s always a good idea to double-check the exact measurements before buying bedding or planning your room layout, since the sizes can vary slightly between manufacturers, with a tolerance of about plus or minus 2 cm. These measurements refer to the mattress size, the actual bed frame may be larger due to headboards, footboards, or decorative features.
Comparing the 3/4 Bed to Other Sizes
The 3/4 bed sits right in the middle of the UK bed sizes. It offers several advantages over both the smaller and larger options. When compared to a single bed, the extra 30 cm of width provides you with more sleeping space, making it the perfect choice for adults who find single beds too small. But it’s still smaller than a regular double bed, which is great for smaller bedrooms where every inch counts.
For couples, a 3/4 bed technically fits two people, but it isn’t very comfortable for long-term use when compared to a double bed. Each person would have approximately 60 cm of sleeping space, which is comfortable and manageable for occasional use or shorter stays. King-size beds, measuring 150 cm by 200 cm, are much more luxurious, but take up a lot more bedroom space and come at a higher cost.
Who Should Choose a 3/4 Bed
Small double beds are great for a number of common living situations in the UK. Teenagers and young adults moving from single beds to larger ones can enjoy extra sleeping space without taking up too much extra space in their bedrooms. This leaves plenty of room for desks, storage, and other furniture that they need for their personal space. The 3/4 bed has become increasingly popular in student housing, where space is typically limited but comfort remains important.
Three-fourths beds are also great for guest rooms. The size provides guests with more comfort than a single bed without taking over the room, which is especially useful when the guest room is used for multiple things, such as a home office or hobby space.
People who live in cities in small apartments or flats find 3/4 beds to be very useful. In cities where square footage is hard to come by, a small double bed maximizes the available space as it allows room for movement and additional storage solutions. At this size, residents can keep their bedroom layout functional without giving up too much floor space to the bed itself.
Practical Considerations for 3/4 Beds
When buying a 3/4 bed, one important thing to think about is whether or not bedding is available. While not as readily available as single or standard double bedding, small double bed linens have become increasingly accessible as the bed size gains popularity. Most major UK retailers now stock fitted sheets, duvet covers, and mattress protectors designed for 120 cm by 190 cm beds. Some retailers refer to this size as “small double” or “queen size” bedding, so knowing the alternative names can help when shopping.
What is the best use for a 3/4 bed? Bed Advice UK states that small double beds and mattresses are the ideal choice for guestrooms or smaller bedrooms where space is limited. They offer plenty of room for a single adult but can be a little cramped with two.
3/4 beds are more useful when they have storage options, especially in smaller rooms. Many manufacturers offer small double beds with integrated storage solutions, including ottoman-style lift-up bases and drawer units located beneath the mattress. These storage features are very useful in small bedrooms where there isn’t much room for clothes and other items. They make it easy to store bedding, seasonal clothes, and other things.
Cost and Value Considerations
The 3/4 bed is a great deal, especially for people who are on a tight budget. Small double beds and mattresses cost less than full double or king-size beds and mattresses. This makes them a great choice if you want a little extra sleeping room without giving up a lot of floor space. The smaller size also means that bedding and other bed-related items will cost less over the bed’s lifetime.
The 15 cm reduction in width compared to a standard double bed can make a big difference in smaller bedrooms when it comes to saving space. You can use this space for bedside tables, additional storage furniture, or just to make the room feel less crowded and easier to move around in. Interior designers often recommend leaving at least 60 cm of walking space around a bed, and choosing a 3/4 bed instead of a double can make this possible in tighter spaces.
