South African mattress sizes at a glance

South African mattress names generally refer to the sleeping surface, measured as width by length. Common standard sizes are single at 91 x 188 cm, three-quarter at 107 x 188 cm, double at 137 x 188 cm, queen at 152 x 188 cm, king at 183 x 188 cm and super king at 200 x 200 cm. These figures are consistent across public size guides from Bed King, Sloom and Dial-a-Bed, although individual products may use slightly different descriptions or tolerances.

The quickest way to choose is to start with who will sleep on the mattress, then test the available floor area. A single or three-quarter can suit one sleeper in a compact room; a double or queen gives a couple more width; and a king or super king needs a larger room and careful access planning. Browse the range at [/mattresses](/mattresses), but use the individual product dimensions rather than the size label alone.

  • Write down the mattress width and length separately; do not rely on the word “queen” or “king” alone.
  • Leave room for doors, drawers, bedside tables and a clear walking path.
  • Check whether the listed measurement is for the mattress only or the complete bed frame.

What each standard size is suited to

A single is usually the most space-efficient choice for one person, while a three-quarter adds 16 cm of width without taking up as much floor space as a double. A double can work for one sleeper who wants more room or for two people who are comfortable with a narrower sleep surface, but the usable space per person is less than on a queen or king.

A queen is a common middle ground for couples and main bedrooms, while a king provides substantially more width. A super king is wider again and square in the commonly listed 200 x 200 cm format. These are practical layout descriptions, not promises about comfort: comfort also depends on the mattress construction, firmness preference, body size and sleeping position.

  • For a guest room, compare the sleeping space with the room’s storage and circulation needs.
  • For two sleepers, consider whether either person changes position often or needs more personal space.
  • For children or teenagers, check present space needs as well as how long the room must remain useful.

Extra-length mattresses and frame compatibility

Many South African size guides list extra-length versions at 200 cm long for single, three-quarter, double and king formats. Bed King, for example, lists a 200 cm extra-length option for each of those sizes, while Sloom states that its mattresses are available in extra length. Extra length can be worth considering for taller sleepers, but it must be matched with a base, headboard, protector and fitted sheet made for the same length.

Do not assume that a longer mattress will fit an existing frame simply because the width is unchanged. Measure the internal sleeping platform, not just the outside of the frame, and check the manufacturer’s stated tolerance. If a mattress is split, modular or custom-sized, confirm the exact dimensions and how the pieces are intended to sit on the base.

  • Measure the internal width and length of the base in centimetres before buying.
  • Replace standard 188 cm linen with 200 cm extra-length linen when the mattress requires it.
  • Confirm delivery access through passages, lifts, stairwells and doorways for larger or boxed mattresses.

A simple measuring and buying checklist

Measure the room twice: first the open floor area, then the route from the entrance to the final position. Mark the mattress footprint with masking tape or newspaper so you can judge the walking space and the swing of doors. Also check ceiling height and stair turns if the mattress will arrive flat rather than compressed.

Before placing an order, compare the mattress specification with the base, linen and accessories you already own. If you are replacing only the mattress, an exact fit matters; a mismatch can leave unsupported edges, movement or bedding that will not sit correctly. When symptoms such as persistent back pain or numbness are involved, treat mattress choice as a comfort decision rather than a medical solution and consult a health professional.

  • Record the old mattress label, then verify its actual width and length with a tape measure.
  • Check the product page for standard versus extra length, thickness and any split configuration.
  • Keep the supplier’s written dimensions and return terms before finalising a purchase.