King Size Bed Pros and Cons: Is It Worth It
A king size bed measuring 150x200cm offers noticeably more sleeping space than a standard double (135x190cm), but whether it is worth it depends on your bedroom size, budget and how many people regularly share the room. Larger households often benefit from the extra width, yet the additional floor space required and higher cost mean it is not the right choice for every UK home.
King Size vs Double: The Key Measurements
A king size bed is 15cm wider and 10cm longer than a double. In practical terms this means a couple can sleep without disturbance from movement. The bed itself needs at least 60cm clearance on each long side for making the bed and 90cm at the foot for circulation. Measure your bedroom carefully.
Use this quick checklist before buying:
- Measure the room length and width in cm.
- Subtract 150cm width and 200cm length for the mattress.
- Allow 60cm on each side and 90cm at the foot.
- Check ceiling height if choosing a tall headboard or storage bed.
If your room is under 3.2m wide, a double bed will usually feel more proportionate.
Space and Room Layout Considerations
Many UK bedrooms in older houses measure around 3m x 3.5m. A king size bed can dominate such rooms, leaving little space for bedside tables, chests of drawers or a chair. Larger households with teenagers or guests staying regularly often prefer the extra room, but consider how the bed affects traffic flow to the door and wardrobe.
Practical tip: tape out the 150x200cm rectangle on your floor using masking tape. Spend an evening walking around it to test real-life movement. If two adults plus children regularly pile onto the bed, the extra width is genuinely useful; otherwise the space may be wasted.
Cost Implications of Choosing King Size
King size beds and mattresses cost more than equivalent double models. You will also need larger bedding, which adds ongoing expense. For households watching budgets, a well-chosen double with a high-quality mattress often delivers better value than a basic king size setup.
If storage is a priority, many families choose king size ottoman beds to recover some floor space.
Who Benefits Most from a King Size Bed
Couples Who Sleep Restlessly
Partners who differ in size or sleep patterns notice the biggest improvement. The additional 15cm width reduces the chance of being disturbed by turning or getting in and out of bed.
Families with Young Children
Larger households where children climb into the parental bed at night gain real benefit. The 150cm width comfortably fits two adults and one or two small children without anyone hanging off the edge.
Taller Sleepers
The extra 10cm in length helps anyone over 6ft 2in (188cm) who finds their feet touching the footboard on a double.
If none of these describe your household, a double or even a small double may be sufficient. Visit the king size beds range to compare options side by side.
Matching Mattress and Base Choices
A king size bed performs best with a supportive mattress that matches your needs. Pocket sprung or hybrid models work well because they isolate movement across the wider surface. Brands such as Maxitex and Recoil offer reliable options; always check the exact depth on the product page to ensure it fits your chosen bed frame.
For easy assembly in tight spaces, the Kyoto Mollie Bed In A Box King Size (5ft) Natural arrives compact and assembles without tools. Pair it with a king size mattress from Solace+Co or Maxitex for balanced support.
Storage and Furniture Integration
King size rooms often lack space for extra furniture. Ottoman styles solve this by providing large lift-up storage. The extra width does mean the storage volume is greater than a double ottoman, which helps larger households keep bedrooms tidy.
Consider bedside storage solutions too. The Noomi Clip On Storage Unit and Noomi Hook On Shelf (FSC Certified) attach directly to many bed frames, adding practical surface area without taking floor space. These are especially useful in compact king size layouts.
If your current bedroom furniture feels cramped, browse the bedroom furniture selection for scaled-down pieces designed to work alongside larger beds.
Is a King Size Bed Worth It? Decision Rules
Use these clear rules:
- If your bedroom is 3.5m wide or more and you share with a partner who moves a lot, choose king size.
- If the room is under 3.2m wide, stick with a double or consider a super king only if you have 4m+ width.
- Households with children under 10 who frequently join you in bed gain most from the width.
For those who need even more space, compare super king size beds (180x200cm) but only if the room can accommodate the extra 30cm width.
Ultimately a king size bed is worth it when the extra sleeping area improves nightly comfort enough to offset the room and cost trade-offs. Measure twice, consider your household’s actual sleeping habits, and choose accordingly.
Our picks for this guide
- Kyoto Belle Ottoman Bed End Lift King Size (5ft) Natural – Provides generous under-bed storage that offsets the floor space taken by a king size bed in larger households.
- Kyoto Mollie Bed In A Box King Size (5ft) Natural – Easy flat-pack assembly suits tight king size layouts where delivery access is limited.
- Noomi Clip On Storage Unit – Adds practical bedside storage without using extra floor space in compact king size bedrooms.
- Kyoto Skandi Mid Century Bed King Size (5ft) Mid Oak – Clean lines and modest height help a king size bed feel proportionate in medium-sized UK bedrooms.
Frequently asked questions
How much bigger is a king size bed than a double?
A king size bed measures 150x200cm while a double is 135x190cm. This gives 15cm more width and 10cm more length. The difference is noticeable for couples but may be excessive in small bedrooms under 3.2m wide.
What size room do I need for a king size bed?
Allow at least 3.2m width and 3.8m length for comfortable access. This provides 60cm clearance down each side and 90cm at the foot. Smaller rooms often feel cramped; always tape out the exact 150x200cm footprint plus clearance before purchasing.
Are king size mattresses more expensive?
Yes, expect to pay more than for a double mattress of similar quality. Bedding and base costs also rise. However, brands such as Maxitex and Solace+Co offer good value king size options that last longer than cheaper doubles when chosen carefully.
Is a king size bed suitable for children sharing?
It can work well for larger households where younger children regularly join parents. The 150cm width provides ample space. For dedicated children’s rooms, dedicated kids single or bunk beds remain more practical and space-efficient.
Should I choose an ottoman or regular king size bed?
Ottoman styles recover lost floor space by offering under-bed storage. They suit larger households well. Check the exact lift mechanism and mattress depth limits on the product page.
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