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Best Small Double Mattresses

Best Small Double Mattresses UK (2023)

Last updated: 31.10.2023 Reading time: 6 Min.

Small double mattresses measuring 120 x 190 cm (3’9” x 6’2”) are perfect for couples with limited space or individuals who crave a little more room to move around on.

They're compact, convenient, and, if you choose the right one, also very comfortable. 😴

In this article, we'll explore the world of small double mattresses and present some of the best options available in the UK.

So let's dive right in and find the perfect mattress for your unique sleep needs.

Best small double mattresses

Our top small double mattress recommendations

Sleep Hero Favourite

Simba Hybrid

The Simba Hybrid mattress is a high-quality pocket sprung mattress with multiple layers of foam.

This award-winning and five-star-rated original mattress by Simba Sleep is a unique hybrid mattress that combines polyfoam, memory foam, high-definition foam, and pocket springs.

The Simba Hybrid is an award-winning hybrid pocket sprung foam mattress by Simba Sleep. 🏆

It features four layers, including:

  • A comfort layer of graphite-infused, open-cell Simbatex foam
  • A core of up to 2000 Aerocoil mini pocket springs across 13 zones
  • A CertiPur stability layer
  • A base layer of no roll-off SupportCore with up to 1000 barrel springs

This is a medium-firm mattress that's an excellent choice for a wide range of sleepers, regardless of body size or preferred sleeping position.

Simba Hybrid mattress
The Simba is one of our favourite hybrid mattresses.

The Simba mattress is supportive enough to prevent a build-up of tension, but also soft enough to allow your body to sink in where necessary.

This allows for optimal spinal alignment. 🦴

The Simba Hybrid mattress comes with an antibacterial hypoallergenic cover designed to maximise airflow.

The cover is also removable and machine-washable - but we'd always recommend making use of a mattress protector to safeguard your mattress. 🧼

The Simba comes with free delivery, a 200-day risk-free trial period, and a 10-year guarantee. 

40% OFF SIMBA HYBRID

  Simba Hybrid
Composition: Hybrid mattress with foams, mini pocket springs, and full-size pocket springs.
Firmness level: Medium-firm
Height: 25 cm (10 inches)
Trial period: 200 days
Guarantee: 10 years
What makes this mattress special:  A unique combination of materials; very comfortable for average-weight back and side sleepers; cooling properties
Runner-Up

Nectar Memory Foam Mattress

The Nectar is a luxurious memory foam mattress suitable for most people and sleeping positions.

This bestselling mattress comes with a revolutionary 365-day trial period and a lifetime warranty.

The Nectar memory foam mattress is one of our favourite mattresses.

It features 3 layers of high-quality, high-density memory foam for optimal spinal alignment, pressure relief, and comfort.

The base layer also has 7 contour zones to enhance its ergonomic design and keep your body in a healthy sleeping position. 📏

This prevents a build-up of tension and allows for orthopaedic support.

Nectar mattress
The Nectar is a medium-firm mattress.

The Nectar mattress comes with a breathable cover that enhances airflow to allow for a cool and comfortable sleep. 💨

Unfortunately, the cover is not machine-washable.

We'd suggest using a mattress protector to safeguard your mattress against stains, spills, and bacteria.

The Nectar mattress comes with free delivery & returns, a revolutionary 365-day trial period, and a "forever warranty". 

45% OFF NECTAR 

  Nectar mattress
Composition: Memory foam with a 7-zone cold foam base
Firmness level: Medium-firm
Height: 25 cm (10 inches)
Trial period: 365 days
Guarantee: Lifetime warranty
What makes this mattress special? Exceptionally comfortable for average-weight & lighter sleepers; lifetime warranty & revolutionary one-year sleep trial.
Best For Side Sleepers

Emma Original Plus

The Emma Original is an award-winning memory foam mattress and one of the UK's most popular choices.

This bestselling mattress by Emma Sleep offers 3 layers of premium foam and soft comfort with sufficient support and stability.

The Emma Original is a best-selling memory foam mattress and one of the UK's number-one mattresses. 🏆

It is made up of three different layers of foam, including pressure-relieving memory foam.

Emma original mattress

Memory foam offers great orthopaedic support, making it a good choice for people prone to back pain.

The Emma Original is rated as a medium-firm mattress, though we think it falls on the softer end of the scale.

This makes it an excellent choice for lighter-weight people and side sleepers, but we wouldn't necessarily recommend it to people looking for a firmer feel. 🧱

Conveniently, the mattress comes with a removable mattress cover that can be machine-washed at up to 60℃.

You can upgrade the Emma Original to the Emma Original Plus, which includes an advanced temperature-regulating Diamond Hybrid cover. 

The Emma Original is delivered free of charge and comes with a risk-free 200-night trial period. 

20% OFF EMMA ORIGINAL PLUS + 5% OFF W/ "SLEEPHEROUK5"

  Emma Original
Composition: Memory foam with a base layer of HRX cold foam
Firmness level: Soft
Height: 25 cm (9.8 inches)
Trial period: 200 nights
Guarantee: 10 years
What makes this mattress special? One of the UK's bestselling mattresses with excellent body contouring and a soft feel.
Eco-Friendly

Silentnight Eco Comfort Pocket 1200 Mattress

The Silentnight Eco Comfort Pocket 1200 is a double-sided mattress made from recycled materials & free from foam & chemical treatments.

This is a Good Housekeeping Getting Greener award-winning eco-friendly mattress made from recycled plastic bottles.

The Eco Comfort Pocket 1200 is one of Silentnight's most popular mattresses and a Good Housekeeping Getting Greener award-winning mattress. 🌱

Silentnight Eco Comfort Pocket 1200

Made from 150 recycled plastic bottles and other materials from sustainable sources, this mattress is as comfortable as it is good for the environment.

It's also fully recyclable. ♻️

The Eco Comfort Pocket 1200 is based on a Mirapocket spring system, featuring 1200 zoned pocket springs that react independently to the weight and movement of your body.

This provides exceptional support with a medium-firm feel and even pressure distribution.

The spring system and the Eco Comfort layer also allow for great breathability and good airflow to keep you cool and comfortable all night long. 

The mattress has a depth of 28 cm (11 inches) and has been designed as an affordable alternative to luxury products.

It comes with free two-man delivery from 14 working days. ⏰

You can also purchase an Eco Comfort Pocket 1200 Divan Bed Set to ensure your base is as special as your mattress.

The Silentnight divan beds come in a range of colours and textures and even include under-bed storage options.

 BUY ECO COMFORT POCKET£ 429

  Silentnight Eco Comfort Pocket 1200
Composition: Mirapocket spring system made from recycled materials
Firmness level: Medium-firm
Height: 28 cm (11 inches)
Trial period: 60 nights (T&Cs apply)
Guarantee: 5 years
What makes this mattress special? Eco-friendly & made from 150 recycled plastic bottles; budget option.
Luxury Option

Simba Hybrid Luxe

The Simba Hybrid Luxe is Simba's most advanced mattress with three tiers of titanium Aerocoil® springs and a breathable bamboo wool top surface.

This mattress features 10 layers and has a height of 31 cm (12 inches) for superior comfort. 

The Simba Hybrid Luxe is Simba Sleep's most advanced luxury mattress.

Simba Hybrid Luxe

With a depth of 31 cm (12 inches), this mattress features an impressive 10 layers, which include:

  • Three layers of conical pocket springs 
  • Three layers of Simba-Pure CertiPUR-certified foam
  • One comfort layer of open-cell graphite-infused Simbatex foam
  • Temperature-regulating wool layer
  • Hypoallergenic knitted cover

Up to 6000 pocket springs with varying sizes ensure that the Simba Hybrid Luxe remains supportive and adapts to your body perfectly, allowing for the ultimate sleep experience. 😴

The knitted cover and bamboo wool layer allow for breathability and superior temperature regulation, keeping you cool and refreshed all night long.

Note: Simba Sleep also offers a spring base with up to 1000 barrel springs instead of the standard Simba foam base. Double-check which option you have selected on the product page before completing your purchase. Find out more in our Simba Hybrid Luxe mattress review.

This luxurious mattress is available in all standard UK mattress sizes. 🇬🇧

The Simba Hybrid Luxe comes with free delivery & returns, a 200-day risk-free trial period, and a 10-year guarantee. 

40% OFF SIMBA HYBRID LUXE

  Simba Hybrid Luxe
Composition: Pocket springs, Simba-Pure foam, Simbatex foam, wool, bamboo
Firmness level:  Medium-firm
Height: 31 cm (12 inches)
Trial period: 200 days
Guarantee: 10 years
What makes this mattress special? 10 layers of premium materials; temperature-regulating wool & bamboo layer

How we test products

Our mission is to take the guesswork out of finding the perfect sleep products.

We've dedicated hundreds of hours to testing mattresses and sleep accessories, and rely on a team of testers of differing weights, temperature preferences, and sleeping positions to evaluate each product. 

Tested products are granted the Sleep Hero tested stamp of approval, a mark of our review's reliability.

To learn more about our testing process, check out our methodology page.

If we haven't personally tested a product, please be assured that we invest significant time and energy into scouring the UK market and researching the best recommendations, and we work with a team of sleep experts who review our articles, ensuring that the insights we provide are not only relatable but also reliable.

Who can sleep on a small double mattress?

A small double mattress is a popular choice for people who want a bed that's slightly larger than a small single or single mattress but not as big as a double mattress. 🛏️

Small double mattresses measuring 120 x 190 cm (3’9” x 6’2”) offer a versatile and practical solution for various sleepers and living situations.

They're ideal for people who prefer to sleep alone and stretch out or for couples who want to save space in the bedroom.

We usually recommend double mattresses or larger for couples, but if you're struggling with severely limited space, a small double mattress may be the most convenient choice.

Let's take a closer look at who can benefit from a small double mattress. 👀

A luxurious choice for solo sleepers

A small double mattress can be an excellent choice for solo sleepers who value extra space to stretch out and get comfortable. 😴

Man sleeping with a cat
Small double mattresses are ideal for sleepers sharing their bed with a pet.

Measuring 120 x 190 cm (3’9” x 6’2”) instead of 90 x 190 cm (3’ x 6’3”), these mattresses offer more room than a single bed.

This allows for greater freedom to move at night without taking up too much floor space.

This size is perfect for people who change sleeping positions frequently or like to have extra space for their belongings (or pets).

A great value-for-money option like the Emma Original would be a good bet.

20% OFF EMMA ORIGINAL PLUS + 5% OFF W/ "SLEEPHEROUK5"

A space-saving option for couples with limited space

A small double mattress can be a fantastic space-saving solution for couples with limited bedroom space. 👩‍❤️‍👨

It still offers enough space for two people but uses significantly less floor space than a king-size or super-king-size mattress.

This can be especially helpful for smaller bedrooms or apartments where every centimetre of space counts.

If your partner sleeps quite restlessly, though, you should always choose a mattress with good motion isolation.

sleeping in bed with movement
Couples on a small double mattress should always choose low-motion materials.

Motion isolation (or low motion transfer) means that the mattress absorbs the movements of one person so that you don't feel them on the other side of the bed.

Memory foam or pocketed coils are often used in mattresses with good motion isolation.

A good option for guest rooms

A small double mattress can also be a good option for guest rooms.

If you want to create a welcoming and comfortable space for your visitors, it's essential to consider the size and layout of the room. 🤗

A small double mattress offers a balance between providing ample sleeping space for your guests and making the most of the room's available space.

This way, you can ensure your guests feel well-rested during their stay while still leaving room for extra walking space.

Since guest beds won't be used regularly, you could even opt for a cheaper small double mattress option like the Silentnight Eco Comfort.

BUY ECO COMFORT POCKET£ 429

A good option for children

Small double mattresses can also be excellent options for children or young adults transitioning from a single bed to something more spacious. 👧🏼

Children playing on a small double mattress
For children desiring a roomier bed, small double mattresses provide ample space.

This mattress size offers additional room for growing bodies without taking up too much space in the bedroom.

It's a practical and cost-effective solution for parents who want to provide their children with a comfortable and spacious sleeping surface.

Different types of small double mattresses

Choosing the right mattress material is crucial for a good night’s sleep.

There are dozens of different materials to choose from, each offering unique benefits and characteristics.

Let's look at some of the most common mattress materials. 👇🏻

Memory foam

Memory foam is a versatile material that adapts well to the body's contours and provides excellent pressure relief and even weight distribution.

This makes it an ideal choice for orthopaedic mattresses.

Memory foam mattress
Memory foam mattresses excel at significantly reducing motion transfer for undisturbed sleep.

Memory foam also offers very low motion transfer, making it a fabulous choice for couples.

On the downside, restless sleepers who change position frequently may not find memory foam suitable

This is because the material allows for good sinkage, which makes it more challenging to move around on.

This doesn't mean all memory foam mattresses are soft. 🧸

Some options, like the Nectar, offer firmer support and are better suited to all body types.

45% OFF NECTAR

Memory foam does tend to retain body heat, making these mattresses less suitable for hot sleepers or people who sweat a lot while sleeping.

That said, many brands have developed cooling technologies or combined a top layer of ortho memory foam with other materials to solve this issue.

Latex foam

Latex foam mattresses are popular because of their natural resilience and durability. ☘️

They offer a unique combination of support and comfort, conform to the body, and feel slightly bouncier than memory foam.

This makes it easier for you to change positions throughout the night.

Benefits of latex mattresses
Latex mattresses combine eco-friendliness, hypoallergenic properties, and breathability for optimal comfort.

These comfortable mattresses are also hypoallergenic and resistant to dust mites, making them a great choice for allergy sufferers. 🐜

They're also naturally breathable, which helps regulate body temperature and keeps you cool throughout the night.

You'll find both natural and synthetic latex foam mattresses, with the former being more eco-friendly and sustainable.

On the downside, latex mattresses can be quite expensive, reflecting their premium quality and durability.

They're also heavier, which may be a consideration if you plan to move or rearrange your bedroom furniture frequently.

Coils or pocket springs

Innerspring mattresses have long been a popular choice for sleepers.

With a core of interconnected springs, these mattresses offer a traditional feel and plenty of bounce.

Spring mattress layers
Natural ventilation channels are formed by the gaps between the springs in the mattress.

The spaces between the springs create natural ventilation channels that provide excellent breathability. 🌬️

This design ensures top-notch climate regulation and prevents the formation of mould and dust mites.

These coil mattresses, with their firmer and more stable structure, are an excellent choice for people with heavier weights as well as for back and stomach sleepers.

On the downside, you'll likely come across poor-quality innerspring mattresses.

We'd recommend sticking to pocket-sprung mattresses or hybrids, like the Simba Hybrid, if you're looking for small double innerspring mattresses.

40% OFF SIMBA HYBRID

Pocket springs are individually encased in fabric for better motion isolation and targeted support.

This design ensures that each spring can respond independently to your body and weight, improving comfort and spinal alignment.

How to select the right firmness level

Before buying a mattress, it's important to determine the right degree of firmness.

The firmness level of a mattress indicates how soft or hard the surface of the mattress feels when you lie on it.

There are multiple factors that influence which degree of firmness will be right for you, but build and body weight certainly play a part. ⚖️

  • Heavier people generally find that a firmer mattress provides better support.
  • Lighter people may prefer a softer mattress that adapts better to their body shape.

The Emma Original is a fantastic soft mattress option that still offers great stability and support.

20% OFF EMMA ORIGINAL PLUS + 5% OFF W/ "SLEEPHEROUK5"

Age can also play a crucial role in determining the ideal firmness level of a mattress.

Many elderly people often prefer medium-soft or medium-firm mattresses, regardless of body weight. 👵🏼

Sleep Hero firmness scale
It's important to choose the right mattress firmness for your preferred sleeping position.

It's also helpful to consider your preferred sleeping position and other personal preferences.

Back sleepers and stomach sleepers, for example, usually require slightly firmer mattresses than side sleepers.

Criteria to consider before purchasing a 120 x 190 cm small double mattress

Buying a small double mattress isn't always the easiest of tasks.

You need to ensure you are investing in a high-quality product. 🏅

But how do you figure this out?

Let's explore the key aspects to keep in mind during your search. 🔎

Quality and density of the materials

High-quality materials not only ensure a comfortable sleeping experience but also contribute to the longevity of the mattress. 🗓️

Mattresses made with higher-density materials tend to provide better support and retain their shape over time, making them a wise investment.

While premium mattresses like the Simba Hybrid Luxe will be top-of-the-notch, most of the brands we recommend actually offer high-quality products.

40% OFF SIMBA HYBRID LUXE

Stability, support, and firmness

Stability, support, and firmness play a significant role in determining your overall comfort and sleep quality.

A mattress with good stability and support will keep your spine aligned and alleviate pressure points, helping to prevent discomfort and back pain.

Firmness, on the other hand, is a personal preference that varies among individuals.

Mattress firmness
The correct firmness depends on your body type and favoured sleeping position.

Choosing a mattress with a firmness level that suits your sleeping position and body type is essential, as this will ensure optimal comfort and restorative sleep.

Your mattress doesn't need to be extra firm to offer the right amount of stability and support.

Even a soft mattress like the Emma Original can offer exceptional support.

20% OFF EMMA ORIGINAL PLUS + 5% OFF W/ "SLEEPHEROUK5"

Delivery and return conditions

Delivery and return conditions can significantly impact your overall shopping experience. 🚛

Reliable delivery ensures your new mattress arrives on time and in perfect condition.

Many mattress companies in the UK offer free delivery and returns.

Reviewing the return policy is essential, as it's not uncommon to realise a mattress isn't the right fit after a few nights of sleep.

A generous return policy will give you peace of mind and the opportunity to exchange the mattress if it doesn't meet your expectations.

Risk-free trial period

A risk-free trial period is an essential factor to consider when purchasing a new mattress.

risk-free trial period
Most UK brands offer risk-free trial periods.

A trial period allows you to test the mattress in the comfort of your own home, ensuring it meets your specific needs and preferences. 🏡

Typically, mattress companies offer trial periods ranging from 30 to 100 nights.

Some brands, like Nectar, even offer longer trial periods.

45% OFF NECTAR

During this time, you can decide if the mattress works for you.

If you're unsatisfied with your purchase, the company will exchange the mattress for a different model or provide a full refund. 💰

Can you buy a cheap small double mattress?

You can definitely buy a cheap small double mattress without compromising on quality.

Many affordable small double mattresses are made of high-quality materials and offer good comfort and support.

You should shop around and compare prices before buying a mattress to ensure you get the most for your money. 🤑

Online retailers often offer lower prices than traditional shops because they have fewer overheads.

People celebrating savings
Save on small double mattresses by comparing prices and taking advantage of sales.

You can also look out for sales, discounts, and promotions throughout the year to secure an even better deal.

The biggest online mattress brands frequently run promotions, allowing you to save up to 50%.

You can check out our discounts page for the latest deals or sign up for our newsletter to receive deals straight in your inbox.

Should you get a small double mattress topper?

Toppers add an extra layer of comfort to your mattress and improve your sleeping experience. 💤

If your current mattress is just a bit too firm, a topper can add cushioning and be an affordable alternative to buying a new mattress.

But it's worth remembering that mattress toppers won't save you from the discomfort of a worn, old mattress.

If you're struggling with a mattress that's sagging or lacking support, you'll need to buy a new mattress.

Our favourite small double mattress toppers:

So what are the best small double mattresses in the UK?

Choosing the best UK small double mattress depends on your preferences, sleep style, and budget. 💷

By considering factors such as material, firmness, and support, you can find the perfect mattress to enhance your sleeping experience.

Don't forget to check delivery and return policies, as well as possible risk-free trial periods.

With all this information, you're better equipped to make an informed decision and enjoy restful nights on your new small double mattress.

Here's a recap of our favourites.

Best small double mattresses UK:

Frequently asked questions

  • What is the size of a small double mattress in the UK?


    A small double mattress in the UK measures 120 x 190 cm (3’9” x 6’2”).

  • Can a small double bed comfortably fit two people?


    A small double bed can accommodate two people, but it might be a tight fit.

    A small double bed provides less individual space for each person than a standard double bed.

    If both sleepers are comfortable with the limited space, it could work. 👫🏼

    However, a larger bed size might be more suitable for better comfort and personal space.

  • What are the different innerspring small double mattresses available?


    There are several types of innerspring small double mattresses, each offering unique benefits.

    • The traditional open coil spring mattress features interconnected springs that offer robust support. 
    • The Miracoil mattress is known for its edge support and reduced partner disturbance.
    • In pocket spring mattresses, each spring is individually housed in a fabric pocket for greater support and motion isolation. 

    We would usually recommend opting for pocket-sprung mattresses.

  • Which small double mattress is better, a pocket spring mattress or a memory mattress?


    The choice between a pocket spring and a memory foam small double mattress depends largely on personal preferences. 

    • Pocket mattresses often provide better airflow, resulting in a cooler sleep, and they typically offer more bounce. 💨
    • Memory mattresses, on the other hand, are known for their pressure relief and body-contouring properties.

    Consider your sleep preferences, such as firmness, support, and temperature regulation, when making your decision.

  • Will a double mattress topper fit a small double bed?


    A double mattress topper will not fit a small double bed properly. 

    A standard double mattress topper is designed for a mattress measuring 135 x 190 cm (4’6” x 6’3”). 

    A small double bed mattress only measures 120 x 190 cm (3’9” x 6’2”). 🫠

    Invest in a mattress topper designed for smaller dimensions to ensure the best fit. 

  • Which small double bed frame should I get?


    Mattresses should be placed on suitable bed frames.

    But any bed, regardless of divan base, ottoman bed, or slatted bed frame, should work.

    Many popular retailers only sell bed frames for double beds and larger, but you can browse Argos, HappyBeds, and Dreams for small double bed frames.

Aeman avatar

Aeman

Content Writer

A huge fan of naps! Being a sleepyhead with a busy life is tough, so I decided to write about it. 

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