What Length Mattress Do I Need?
If your bed feels too short, an extra long bed or mattress can give you the space you need to stretch out properly. The Big Bed Company specialises in longer beds and mattresses for tall people, and we make these longer lengths as standard.
Most people sleep best on a mattress around 20cm (8 inches) longer than they are. Taller sleepers often need a bed longer than standard UK sizes. The Sleep Charity also recommends allowing extra mattress length for better sleep.
A standard bed may be too short if:
- your feet reach the end of the mattress
- you sleep diagonally to get enough room
- you are taller than 5'7" (170cm) and sleeping in a single or double bed
- you are over 5'11" (180cm) and sleeping in a king or super king
If your feet touch the end of the bed, or you are forced to sleep diagonally, the bed is too short. A longer bed and mattress can give you the space to stretch out properly.
What Length Mattress Do I Need If I Am Tall?
- ✔ Measure how tall you are
- ✔ Add at least 20cm (8")
- ✔ Our standard extra lengths are 200cm, 205cm, 215cm, 220cm
- ✔ In imperial, these lengths are 6'6", 6'9", 7' and 7'3"
- ✔ We can make to any custom length, just contact us
Want to see our standard sizes? Visit our bed & mattress size guide.
View Size GuideRecommended Mattress Length for Taller Sleepers
As a general guide, your mattress should be at least 20cm (8 inches) longer than you are. Taller sleepers often benefit from longer beds to avoid their feet reaching the end of the mattress.
| Your Height | Recommended Mattress Length |
|---|---|
| Up to 5'11" | 200cm / 6'6" |
| Up to 6'1" | 205cm / 6'9" |
| Up to 6'4" | 215cm / 7' |
| Up to 6'6" | 220cm / 7'3" |
| Over 6'6" | Custom mattress length recommended |
Mattress Length FAQs
How do I work out the right mattress length for my height?
A simple rule is to choose a mattress that is about 20cm (8 inches) longer than you are. This usually gives you enough room so your feet are not pressed against the end of the bed.
What mattress length is best for someone over 6ft tall?
If you are over 6ft tall, a standard 190cm mattress is often too short. Many people prefer a length of 205cm or 215cm so they have more space to stretch out.
Are longer mattresses available for tall people?
Yes. While most UK mattresses are 190cm or 200cm long, longer options such as 205cm, 215cm and 220cm are available, and custom lengths can also be made.
Does my room size matter when choosing a longer bed?
Yes. Check the full bed frame size before ordering, as the frame may be slightly longer than the mattress.
Need a Bed That Finally Fits?
Once you know the right length, you can browse our made to order beds, explore our made to order mattresses, use our mattress finder to choose the right feel, or contact us if you need help choosing the best longer size.
Contact us