South African mattress and bed size guide

When it comes to finding the perfect bed in South Africa, it's a bit like choosing the right pair of takkies – you've got to get the size just right, or you're in for a rough ride.

Too small, and you'll be fighting for space like the last person to get in the taxi. Too big, and you might just lose your partner in a sea of pillows (watch out gents… we will fill it).

Whether you're kitting out a city loft or your first student res, this local mattress and bed size guide for South Africa will help you find your perfect fit – no tossing and turning required!

South African mattress sizes

Going from a single bed to your mom’s hand-me-down queen-sized bed, or a new double bed that allows you to spread out is the natural progression as a young person living at home.

However, when you move into your own apartment, it is important to consider the size of your room before buying your new mattress.

Here's the most common bed sizes in South Africa so that you can assess your space and plan accordingly:

Single Bed

91 x 188 cm

This is the smallest size bed you will find in South Africa and it sleeps one…unless you’re speaking to students in res! It is mostly found in children’s bedrooms, boarding school dorms, university residences and small guest bedrooms that are 2.5m x 3m.

Extra Length Single

91 x 200 cm

The extra length single is just like the single bed, just a little longer for people who want to sleep alone but don’t want their toes hanging over the edge of the bed, making it perfect for growing teenagers or adult guests. You might have seen these when you’re away at a hotel as they usually combine two extra length single beds to create a king size bed.

Three-Quarter (¾)

107 x 188 cm

The three-quarter bed is the perfect bed for someone who wants a bigger bed without taking up all the space in the room. It is perfect for teenagers, guests and small children who move frequently in their sleep. This bed will fit perfectly in a room that is 2.7m x 3.2m.

Extra Length Three-Quarter

107 x 200 cm

Slightly longer than a standard three-quarter bed, this size is ideal for taller teens or single adults who need more legroom. It fits perfectly in smaller rooms like guest rooms or student accommodations.

Double

137 x 188 cm

The move from a single bed to a double bed is quite exciting because it either means you now have a more spacious room or a partner to sleep next to. It’s well-suited for medium-sized bedrooms that are 3m x 3.5m or shared spaces where maximising comfort is a priority.

Extra Length Double

137 x 200 cm

With added legroom, this bed is great for taller couples or single sleepers who want a “grown up” bed that does not take up too much space. It works well in mid-sized bedrooms and offers both comfort and space efficiency.

Queen

152 x 188 cm

This is the bed that makes you feel like you’ve arrived! The queen sized bed is a popular choice for couples as it offers plenty of space without being too large for most master or guest bedrooms - think 3.2m x 3.7m. It's a good balance between comfort and room availability.

Extra Length Queen

152 x 200 cm

Perfect for taller couples, the extra length provides more legroom while maintaining the standard queen width. It’s ideal for larger bedrooms and those who need both space and comfort.

King

183 x 188 cm

When someone says “This is where the magic happens” as they open their bedroom door, you know a king sized bed is behind the door! Spacious and luxurious, the king sized bed is perfect for couples who enjoy extra room or for families that may have kids joining them in bed. Best suited for large master bedrooms that are 3.5m x 4m.

Extra Length King

183 x 200cm

Offering maximum width and length, this bed is designed for taller couples or anyone who loves plenty of room to stretch out. It’s best for expansive master bedrooms where space isn’t a concern.

How to choose the right mattress for you

1. Consider your size and the amount of weight the bed can handle

When it comes to choosing a mattress, size matters! Always ensure that you check the weight your new bed can handle to ensure that it will be safe and comfortable for everyone who intends to use it.

2. Measure your room

There’s nothing worse than that side shimmy one does when walking around a room where the bed takes up a lot of space. So make sure you measure the dimensions of your bedroom before buying your new bed so you can keep the shimmy for the dancefloor.

3. Consider your sleeping preferences

You know that feeling where you feel like you’re falling off your bed only to wake up suddenly and realise you’re still in your bed? Well with the incorrect size bed, that dream might just come true! If you know you sleep on the move, getting a double or queen size bed might be a better idea than getting a single bed.

4. Consider your budget

Ever heard the saying “Money Talks”? When it comes to buying your next bed this is true. The bigger, more comfortable your bed, the more it costs. Thankfully, most stores offer a lay-by option, allowing you to buy the bed of your dreams without compromising your financial goals or comfort.

And with this, you are ready to venture to your nearest furniture shop for your next bed!

Need help moving your new mattress?

Of course, when it comes to moving your new mattress into your home, there’s always Wise Move. You’ll find top-rated local movers to help you today at competitive prices..