How to Measure for Mattress Delivery
When ordering a rolled or flat mattress for delivery, accurate measurements of your home’s corridors, doorways, stairs and turning spaces are essential to avoid the mattress getting stuck. Start by measuring the narrowest points along the intended route from the delivery vehicle to the bedroom, noting height, width and any obstacles such as banisters or radiators.
Why Accurate Measurements Matter for Rolled and Flat Mattresses
Rolled mattresses are compressed and boxed, making them easier to manoeuvre through tight spaces than flat ones, but they still require clearance. Flat mattresses, especially those in rigid packaging, demand more room for turning. UK standard sizes include small single 75x190cm (2ft6), single 90x190cm (3ft), small double 120x190cm (4ft), double 135x190cm (4ft6), king 150x200cm (5ft) and super king 180x200cm (6ft). Always add at least 5-10cm to each measurement for safe handling.
Tools and Preparation Checklist
Gather a steel tape measure, notepad, pencil and phone for photos. Measure twice and record in both cm and ft. Clear the route of rugs, furniture and trailing cables. Enlist a second person to help hold the tape on longer runs. Check ceiling height on stairs and whether doors can be temporarily removed from hinges.
- Measure all doorways along the route, including frame depth.
- Record the narrowest corridor width, especially around corners.
- Measure diagonal clearance on landings and at the top and bottom of stairs.
- Note any low-hanging light fittings or smoke alarms.
- Confirm the final bedroom doorway matches or exceeds the mattress width.
Measuring Corridors and Doorways
Measure the width of every corridor at its narrowest point. For a single mattress (90cm wide), you need at least 100cm clearance to turn it. Standard internal doorways are around 76cm, which can accommodate a rolled single or small double but may be tight for a flat king size. Measure from the inside of the door frame and subtract any protruding skirting or handles. If your hallway is narrower than 85cm, consider a rolled option such as a memory foam mattress from our range.
Decision Rule for Doorways
If the doorway width is less than mattress width plus 10cm, the mattress will not pass flat. Rolled versions in boxes are usually under 45cm in one dimension, allowing easier passage. Always check the exact packaging dimensions on the product page before ordering.
Staircase and Landing Measurements
Stairs present the biggest challenge. Measure the width between banisters or walls, the height from tread to ceiling at the tightest point, and the diagonal distance from the bottom step to the ceiling above the top step. For a king size mattress, you typically need at least 80cm stair width and 200cm diagonal clearance. Spiral or narrow Victorian stairs often require a rolled mattress. Landings must allow a 90-degree turn; measure both the width and depth of the landing space.
Choosing Between Rolled and Flat Delivery
Rolled mattresses are vacuum-packed and boxed, reducing one dimension to around 40-50cm, which helps in tight homes. Flat mattresses arrive uncompressed and are heavier to manoeuvre. If your measurements show any gap narrower than 55cm, opt for rolled. Memory foam and hybrid mattresses roll easily, while traditional sprung models are usually flat only. Browse our memory foam mattresses for convenient rolled options.
UK Mattress Sizes and Delivery Implications
| Size | Dimensions (cm) | Minimum Corridor Width Needed | Typical Delivery Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small Single | 75x190 | 85cm | Rolled or flat |
| Single | 90x190 | 100cm | Both |
| Double | 135x190 | 145cm | Rolled preferred in tight spaces |
| King | 150x200 | 160cm | Rolled strongly recommended |
| Super King | 180x200 | 190cm | Rolled only in most homes |
Use these as a guide only; always verify the specific product page for packaging size. EU sizes such as 140x200cm differ slightly and may affect turning.
Final Bedroom and Bedstead Check
Once the mattress reaches the room, the bedstead must accommodate it. For example, a double bed frame needs internal measurements of at least 135x190cm. If you are buying new furniture, consider our double beds or king size beds. Add a mattress protector at this stage to safeguard your investment. For children’s rooms, single beds and suitable mattresses such as the Noomi or Maxitex ranges are popular.
Our full mattress collection includes many rolled options from recommended names including Maxitex, Noomi and Recoil. If space is very limited, explore compact solutions in our bedroom furniture section.
Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
Many customers forget to measure the delivery vehicle access or the final positioning around existing furniture. Measure from the kerb if you live in a terraced house with a narrow path. Low ceilings on stairs are frequently overlooked; use a long pole or string to simulate the mattress length. If in doubt, choose a rolled memory foam or hybrid mattress from Maxitex or Noomi; these compress to a manageable size and expand once unwrapped.
Our picks for this guide
- Maxitex Cloud Pocket Sprung Pillow Top Memory Mattress – This memory foam hybrid rolls compactly, making it ideal for homes with narrow corridors or tight staircases where flat delivery would be difficult.
- Noomi Waterproof Eco Foam Mattress Single – The single size rolls into a small box that fits through most standard doorways and narrow hallways, perfect for children’s rooms or first apartments.
- Maxitex Diamond Dual Season 1000 Pocket Memory Mattress – Available in multiple sizes and supplied rolled, this mattress offers flexible delivery options when measurements show limited clearance on stairs or landings.
- Noomi Bamboo Natural Latex Pocket Sprung Mattress – The rolled packaging reduces bulk, helping it navigate tight spaces while the natural materials suit customers seeking comfort after successful measurement checks.
Frequently asked questions
Can I remove a door to get a larger mattress through?
Yes, most internal doors lift off their hinges easily, adding 3-5cm of clearance. Measure the opening with the door off and replace afterwards. This is often enough for a double or king size flat mattress where the frame previously reduced the gap.
What is the narrowest space a rolled mattress can fit through?
Rolled and boxed mattresses are typically 35-50cm in one dimension. A clear width of 55cm is usually sufficient for single and double sizes, but always check the exact box measurements on the product page for the specific Maxitex or Noomi mattress you choose.
Do I need different measurements for bunk beds or children’s rooms?
Yes. Bunk beds must comply with BS EN 747 and the top bunk guard rail needs at least 16cm above the mattress. Measure the room height carefully; most top bunks are unsuitable for children under 6. Our kids single beds and Maxitex Kids mattresses are designed with these constraints in mind.
Should I measure before or after buying the bed frame?
Measure the route first, then choose a mattress and bed that both fit the space. Bed frames can sometimes be assembled inside the room, but the mattress must travel through the same corridors and doorways. Check the internal dimensions listed on every bed frame page.
Are there any fire safety rules that affect mattress size choice?
All UK mattresses must meet the Furniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations 1988 and BS 7177. This does not change measurements but confirms that every mattress sold, including our Noomi and Maxitex ranges, has been tested for fire safety regardless of size.