Best Bed Size for Two Children Sharing UK
When two children must share a bedroom, the best bed size depends on their ages, the room dimensions and how long they will share. A small double 120x190cm (4ft) often works well for children aged 6 and over, while bunk beds using two single 90x190cm (3ft) mattresses remain the most space-efficient choice for smaller rooms.
Understanding UK Bed Sizes for Shared Children’s Rooms
UK mattress sizes are fixed. A single bed measures 90x190cm (3ft), a small double 120x190cm (4ft), a standard double 135x190cm (4ft6), a king 150x200cm (5ft) and a super king 180x200cm (6ft). EU sizes differ; an EU single is 90x200cm and an EU double 140x200cm, so always confirm the exact size before buying.
For two children sharing, the practical options are usually two single beds, one small double, or a bunk bed. A small double gives each child more width than a single yet still fits many children’s bedrooms. Measure the room carefully: allow at least 60cm of clear space on each side of the bed for changing bedding and movement.
Bunk Beds: The Space-Saving Choice
Bunk beds remain popular because they use the floor space of only one single bed. All bunk beds sold in the UK must meet BS EN 747. The top-bunk guard rail must rise at least 16cm above the mattress surface, so check the maximum mattress depth stated by the manufacturer and never exceed it. Top bunks are not recommended for children under 6.
Most bunk beds are designed for two single 90x190cm (3ft) mattresses. Choose mattresses no deeper than the limit given on the bed frame. Wooden children’s beds often include sturdy bunk designs that meet these standards.
Checklist Before Buying a Bunk Bed
- Confirm the bed carries the BS EN 747 label.
- Measure ceiling height – at least 2.3m is usually needed for comfortable top-bunk use.
- Choose a ladder that is fixed and has wide, flat rungs.
- Ensure both children can climb safely and the younger child sleeps on the bottom bunk.
Small Double Beds for Sharing Siblings
A small double 120x190cm (4ft) mattress gives each child 60cm of width compared with 45cm on a standard single. This size suits children aged roughly 6 to 12 who are happy to share one surface. All UK mattresses must meet fire-safety rules under the Furniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations 1988 and are tested to BS 7177.
Pair the small double with a suitable base. Many parents add kids’ beds with storage to keep the room tidy. A small double still leaves space for bedside tables or a chest of drawers in most 3m x 3m bedrooms.
Two Single Beds or a Double Bed?
Two single beds offer the most personal space but need roughly twice the floor area. Place them against opposite walls or in an L-shape to maximise play space. A standard double 135x190cm (4ft6) is only 15cm wider than a small double and rarely worth the extra floor space in a shared children’s room.
If the children are teenagers or one is much larger, consider a king size 150x200cm (5ft). Visit the king size beds range to see adult-sized options that can work for older siblings. Always measure the room first: a king bed needs at least 2.1m width when allowing for bedside access.
Storage Solutions to Make Sharing Easier
Shared rooms benefit from extra storage. Under-bed drawers, ottoman beds and tall wardrobes reduce clutter. A chest of drawers placed between two single beds can serve both children and act as a room divider. Children’s bookcases keep books and toys off the floor.
Consider a bedside table for each child. Models with drawers provide extra storage without taking much space. Adding a Noomi Clip On Storage Unit or Noomi Hook On Shelf (FSC Certified) to bunk beds creates handy spots for night-time essentials.
Choosing the Right Mattress for Shared Use
Both children need support suited to their weight and sleeping position. A sprung mattress with good edge support works well for a small double. The Maxitex Premier Sprung Mattress range includes sizes suitable for shared beds. For bunk beds, select two single mattresses of the same depth so the top bunk stays within the guard-rail limit.
Check the maximum mattress depth allowed on any bunk bed before purchase. Foam or hybrid mattresses are often lighter and easier to rotate than traditional sprung types. All mattresses must comply with UK fire-safety standards.
Decision Rules for Parents
- Measure the room and mark out bed sizes with tape on the floor.
- Decide how long the children will share – bunk beds suit younger children, small doubles suit older ones.
- Check age and safety rules: no top bunk under 6 years.
- Factor in storage needs and choose beds with built-in drawers where possible.
- Allow 60cm clearance around beds for making them and moving around.
These rules help avoid buying a bed that will not fit or will be outgrown too quickly. For more children’s options see the full kids’ beds selection.
Recommended Products for Shared Children’s Rooms
The following picks suit siblings sharing a bedroom:
| Product | Reason |
|---|---|
| Flair Ava Boucle Single Bed Pink | Sturdy single bed ideal as one of two singles or for the bottom bunk in a shared room. |
| Maxitex Premier Sprung Mattress - Double Continental | Comfortable sprung support suitable for a small double shared by two children. |
| Noomi Clip On Storage Unit | Practical clip-on shelf that adds storage to bunk beds without taking floor space. |
| Mathy By Bols Madaket Low Children’s Bookcase | Low bookcase that fits neatly beside shared beds and keeps belongings tidy. |
Our picks for this guide
- Flair Ava Boucle Single Bed Pink – Sturdy single bed that works well as one of two singles or the bottom bunk when two children share a bedroom.
- Maxitex Premier Sprung Mattress - Double Continental – Provides even support across a small double size suitable for siblings sharing one mattress.
- Noomi Clip On Storage Unit – Adds essential bedside storage to bunk beds without using any floor space in a shared room.
- Mathy By Bols Madaket Low Children’s Bookcase – Low-height bookcase that fits neatly beside shared single or small double beds to keep the room organised.
Frequently asked questions
What is the smallest bed size two children can share?
A small double 120x190cm (4ft) is the smallest practical shared bed for children over 6. Smaller children usually need bunk beds using two single 90x190cm (3ft) mattresses. Always ensure the chosen bed meets UK safety standards including BS EN 747 for bunks and BS 7177 fire safety for mattresses.
Can two children share a standard single bed?
A single 90x190cm (3ft) bed is too narrow for two children to share comfortably long-term. Each would have only 45cm width. It is better to use two singles, a small double, or a bunk bed that meets current UK regulations.
How much space should be left around shared beds?
Leave at least 60cm clear on the sides and ends of beds for making them and daily movement. In a shared room this clearance also reduces arguments over personal space. Measure the room before choosing between two singles or one small double.
Are bunk beds safe for children under 6?
Top bunks are not recommended for children under 6. All UK bunk beds must meet BS EN 747 with guard rails at least 16cm above the mattress. The younger child should sleep on the bottom bunk and the maximum mattress depth stated by the maker must not be exceeded.
Should we buy storage beds for a shared children’s room?
Storage beds are very useful in shared rooms. Ottoman bases or beds with large drawers reduce floor clutter and help each child keep belongings separate. Combine with a chest of drawers or bookcase for best results.