Extra Long Bed and Mattress Sizes UK
If you are taller than average and regularly find your feet hanging off a standard UK mattress, extra long mattress UK options provide the additional length needed for comfortable sleep. Standard single and double mattresses measure 190cm long while king and super king sizes are usually 200cm; extra long versions extend to 210cm or 220cm so your legs and feet have proper support without dangling.
Standard UK Mattress and Bed Sizes vs Extra Long Options
UK mattress sizes follow fixed dimensions. A small single is 75x190cm (2ft6), a single is 90x190cm (3ft), a small double is 120x190cm (4ft), a double is 135x190cm (4ft6), a king is 150x200cm (5ft) and a super king is 180x200cm (6ft). These lengths work for most adults but taller sleepers need more than 200cm to avoid feet pressing against the footboard or hanging unsupported.
Extra long mattresses commonly come in 210cm or 220cm lengths. This extra 10-30cm makes a noticeable difference for anyone over 6ft 2in (188cm). EU sizes differ slightly; an EU double is 140x200cm and an EU single is 90x200cm, but UK retailers focus on British measurements. Always confirm the exact length on the product page before ordering because some manufacturers label 200cm as “extra long” when it is actually the standard king length.
Who Needs an Extra Long Mattress?
Anyone taller than 188cm will benefit from at least 210cm length. Practical checklist: measure your height while lying flat with a pillow; add 25cm clearance for comfort. If the total exceeds 200cm you need an extra long option. Couples where one partner is tall should consider a king or super king in extra length so both can stretch fully. Children and teenagers who are growing quickly may also outgrow a standard 190cm single quickly; in these cases a 200cm or 210cm single prevents frequent upgrades.
Check the maximum mattress depth allowed by any bed frame. 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 use the maximum mattress depth the bed maker states. Top bunks are not recommended for children under 6. All UK mattresses must meet fire-safety rules under the Furniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations 1988 and are tested to BS 7177.
Types of Extra Long Mattresses Available
Memory foam, pocket sprung, hybrid and natural latex mattresses are all offered in extra long sizes. Memory Foam Mattresses provide excellent pressure relief and conform to the body, making them suitable for side sleepers who need full-length support. Pocket sprung models offer targeted support zone by zone along the entire 210cm or 220cm length.
For families, Maxitex Kids Premier Sprung Mattress and Maxitex Kids Magic Memory Foam Mattress come in longer single sizes that suit growing teenagers. The Noomi Bamboo Natural Latex Pocket Sprung Mattress combines breathable natural materials with pocket springs and is ideal for hot sleepers needing extra length. Check each product page for the exact length offered because not every mattress range extends beyond 200cm.
Choosing the Right Extra Long Bed Frame
An extra long mattress requires a matching bed frame. Standard UK bed frames are built for 190cm or 200cm mattresses; frames for 210cm or 220cm are less common and usually found in the Bed Frames or Beds sections. Measure the internal frame dimensions before purchase; add at least 2cm clearance on length and width for easy fitting and rotation.
Storage beds and ottoman beds can be ordered in extra long sizes but the lifting mechanism must accommodate the longer mattress weight. Fabric beds and wooden frames are popular choices. If space allows, a super king 180x220cm gives both width and length. Always verify the stated maximum mattress depth on the bed page; exceeding it can void compliance with fire safety rules or guard rail heights on bunk beds.
Practical Checklist for Buying Extra Long Beds and Mattresses
- Measure your height plus 25cm pillow and foot clearance to confirm required length (210cm or 220cm recommended for most adults over 188cm).
- Decide between single, double, king or super king width; taller people often prefer wider sizes to avoid feeling restricted lengthwise.
- Check UK fire safety compliance on every mattress label; all sold mattresses meet BS 7177.
- For bunk beds, confirm the guard rail rises at least 16cm above your chosen mattress depth and that the bed meets BS EN 747.
- Consider a mattress protector to keep the extra long surface clean; waterproof versions are especially useful for children or guests.
- Pair with a supportive base: divan, slatted or sprung base must match the exact mattress length to prevent edge sag.
- Decide on firmness: taller heavier sleepers usually need firmer models to maintain support along the full length.
Use this checklist when browsing the Mattresses category or the Double Beds and King Size Beds ranges. For children needing longer options look at Kids Single Beds or Wooden Children's Beds.
Recommended Extra Long Mattress Picks
Three products that suit taller sleepers particularly well are listed below. Each is chosen because the range offers extended lengths beyond the standard 190cm or 200cm.
| Product | Why It Suits Extra Length Needs |
|---|---|
| Maxitex Diamond Dual Season 1000 Pocket Memory Mattress | Combines pocket springs and memory foam for balanced support along an extended length. |
| Noomi Bamboo Natural Latex Pocket Sprung Mattress | Natural latex and bamboo offer breathability and durability across the full extra length, ideal for hot sleepers over 6ft 2in. |
| Maxitex Hybrid 3000 Pocket Sprung Memory Mattress | High coil count hybrid design maintains edge-to-edge support in longer king or super king formats without dipping at the foot. |
| Maxitex Natural 3000 Mattress | Natural fillings provide consistent comfort and pressure relief for taller adults needing extra length in a non-memory foam option. |
Additional Considerations for Extra Long Setups
Bedroom furniture must accommodate the longer footprint. A 220cm long super king bed will need roughly 240cm of clear wall space including headboard depth. Check Bedroom Furniture for extended bedside tables or wardrobes that fit the new layout. Soft furnishings such as longer curtains or larger rugs can help the room feel balanced; see the Soft Furnishings section.
Rotating and flipping an extra long mattress is more difficult due to weight and size; choose models with handles or opt for no-flip designs. A mattress topper can refresh an existing extra long mattress without buying a complete replacement. For children, longer single beds reduce the need to upgrade from cot bed (70x140cm) or standard single sizes too quickly.
Finally, consider future needs. Buying an extra long mattress now prevents having to replace the entire bed set again in a few years as height or comfort requirements change. Always cross-check the exact dimensions listed on each product page because slight manufacturing variations exist between brands.
Our picks for this guide
- Maxitex Diamond Dual Season 1000 Pocket Memory Mattress – Combines pocket springs and memory foam for balanced support along an extended length.
- Noomi Bamboo Natural Latex Pocket Sprung Mattress – Natural latex and bamboo offer breathability and durability across the full extra length, ideal for hot sleepers over 6ft 2in.
- Maxitex Hybrid 3000 Pocket Sprung Memory Mattress – High coil count hybrid design maintains edge-to-edge support in longer king or super king formats without dipping at the foot.
Frequently asked questions
Can I buy an extra long mattress for a child or teenager?
Yes. Standard single mattresses are 90x190cm but many ranges including Maxitex Kids models offer longer single sizes. This prevents feet hanging off during growth spurts. Check the maximum mattress depth allowed by any bunk bed or wooden children's bed frame and ensure the top bunk guard rail exceeds 16cm above the mattress.
What is the difference between UK and EU extra long sizes?
UK extra long king size is typically 150x210cm or 150x220cm while an EU extra long is often 160x200cm or 180x210cm. UK retailers focus on British sizes so always confirm centimetres rather than relying on labels. A UK super king extra long (180x220cm) offers more length than most EU equivalents.
Do extra long beds need special sheets and bedding?
Yes. Standard UK sheets are made for 190cm or 200cm lengths. You will need deep fitted sheets or flat sheets at least 220cm long plus extra wide duvets for king and super king sizes. Mattress protectors in matching lengths are also available to keep the surface clean.
Are extra long mattresses heavier and harder to move?
They are heavier than standard 190cm versions because of the additional foam, springs and fabric. Look for models with built-in handles or choose lighter foam constructions if you rotate the mattress regularly.
Is it worth buying an extra long mattress if I am exactly 6ft tall?
Most people 183cm (6ft) or taller notice improved comfort with 210cm length because it allows 25cm clearance beyond head and feet. At exactly 6ft a 200cm mattress is often sufficient but many prefer the extra room for stretching or changing sleep positions during the night.