Australian mattress sizes differ from those used in the United States, United Kingdom, and Europe, which can cause confusion when shopping online or comparing products. Whether you're furnishing a child's room, upgrading your master bedroom, or setting up a guest room, understanding Australian standard mattress dimensions is essential for making the right choice.
This comprehensive guide covers all standard Australian mattress sizes, their ideal uses, and important considerations to help you select the perfect size for your needs and space.
Australian Standard Mattress Sizes
Australia has six standard mattress sizes, each designed for specific purposes. Here are the official dimensions you'll encounter when shopping:
Single: 92cm x 188cm (36" x 74")
King Single: 107cm x 203cm (42" x 80")
Double: 138cm x 188cm (54" x 74")
Queen: 153cm x 203cm (60" x 80")
King: 183cm x 203cm (72" x 80")
Super King: 204cm x 203cm (80" x 80")
Single Mattress (92cm x 188cm)
The single mattress is Australia's most compact standard size, measuring 92 centimetres wide and 188 centimetres long. This size is designed primarily for children's beds, bunk beds, and small bedrooms where space is at a premium.
A single mattress works well for:
- Children under 12 years of age
- Small bedrooms with limited floor space
- Bunk beds and loft beds
- Trundle beds for occasional guests
- Studio apartments where space efficiency is crucial
Keep in mind that at 188cm long, standard single mattresses may be too short for teenagers experiencing growth spurts. If your child is approaching teenage years, consider the longer King Single instead.
King Single Mattress (107cm x 203cm)
The King Single offers a smart upgrade from the standard single, providing an extra 15 centimetres of width and 15 centimetres of length. This additional space makes a significant difference for teenagers and taller individuals who need room to stretch out.
A King Single is ideal for:
- Teenagers and young adults
- Taller individuals who sleep alone
- Adults in compact living situations
- Guest rooms with moderate space
- Hospital and aged care settings
If you're buying a bed for a child over 8, consider going straight to a King Single. The extra length will accommodate their growth through teenage years, potentially saving you from replacing the mattress prematurely.
Double Mattress (138cm x 188cm)
The double mattress, sometimes called a "full" size in American terminology, measures 138cm wide and 188cm long. While technically designed for two people, the double provides only 69cm of sleeping width per person—less than a single mattress.
A double mattress suits:
- Single adults who want extra space to spread out
- Guest rooms with limited space
- Teenagers transitioning from a single bed
- Couples on a tight budget or with space constraints
For couples planning to share long-term, we generally recommend stepping up to at least a Queen. The double's narrower width can lead to disturbed sleep when partners move, and the 188cm length may be restrictive for taller individuals.
Queen Mattress (153cm x 203cm)
The Queen is Australia's most popular mattress size, striking an ideal balance between sleeping space and room requirements. At 153cm wide and 203cm long, it provides adequate room for most couples while fitting comfortably in average-sized bedrooms.
A Queen mattress is perfect for:
- Couples of average height and build
- Single adults who enjoy generous sleeping space
- Master bedrooms with standard dimensions
- Guest rooms intended for couples
The Queen offers 76.5cm of width per person when shared—significantly more comfortable than a double. Its popularity also means you'll find the widest selection of sheets, mattress protectors, and accessories in this size.
For comfortable placement of a Queen mattress with adequate walking space around the bed, your room should be at least 3m x 3m (10ft x 10ft). This allows for bedside tables and easy movement.
King Mattress (183cm x 203cm)
The King mattress provides luxurious space at 183cm wide and 203cm long. This size offers each partner 91.5cm of personal sleeping width—equivalent to a single bed each—making it ideal for couples who value their personal space or have different sleep schedules.
A King mattress works well for:
- Couples who prefer maximum personal space
- Parents who co-sleep with young children
- Larger individuals who need extra room
- Couples with pets that share the bed
- Those who toss and turn frequently
Consider your room dimensions carefully before choosing a King. This size requires a room of at least 3.6m x 3.6m (12ft x 12ft) to accommodate the bed frame, bedside tables, and adequate circulation space.
Super King Mattress (204cm x 203cm)
The Super King is Australia's largest standard mattress size, measuring an impressive 204cm wide and 203cm long. This near-square dimension provides ultimate sleeping luxury for couples who want to feel like they're sleeping alone while sharing a bed.
A Super King is ideal for:
- Couples who desire maximum sleeping independence
- Families who regularly co-sleep with children
- Larger couples needing extra support and space
- Those with spacious master bedrooms
A Super King requires a room of at least 4.2m x 4.2m (14ft x 14ft) for comfortable placement. Also note that Super King bedding and accessories may be more expensive and harder to find than standard sizes.
Choosing the Right Size for Your Space
Beyond personal comfort preferences, your room dimensions play a crucial role in mattress size selection. Here's how to measure effectively:
- Measure your room: Note the length and width, including any alcoves or irregularities
- Plan furniture placement: Account for bedside tables (typically 40-60cm each), a dresser, and any other furniture
- Allow walking space: Maintain at least 60cm of clearance around the bed for comfortable movement
- Consider door swings: Ensure doors and wardrobes can open fully without hitting the bed
A common mistake is choosing the largest mattress that technically fits, leaving the room feeling cramped and difficult to navigate. When in doubt, size down or reconsider your furniture layout.
Australian vs International Sizing
If you're importing bedding or furniture from overseas, be aware that sizes differ internationally. American King mattresses are narrower and longer than Australian Kings (193cm x 203cm vs 183cm x 203cm). UK sizes also vary, with their King equivalent being closer to our Queen.
Always verify dimensions in centimetres rather than relying on size names when purchasing internationally to avoid costly sizing mismatches.
Final Thoughts
Selecting the right mattress size balances personal comfort needs, sleeping arrangements, and practical room considerations. For most Australian couples, a Queen provides the optimal combination of space and practicality. If budget and room size allow, upgrading to a King offers noticeably improved sleep quality for couples, particularly those sensitive to partner movement.
Take time to measure your space carefully and consider not just current needs but future circumstances. A well-chosen mattress size contributes significantly to years of quality sleep.