King Sized Mattresses

A king size mattress at 150 x 200cm gives each person sleeping in it around 75cm of width, which is comparable to what a single bed provides one person. That shift in perspective is often what convinces couples who have been sleeping on a double to make the move, and most who do say they wish they had done it sooner.

The extra 10cm in length compared to a double also matters more than it sounds. A standard double at 190cm can be uncomfortably short for anyone over 6ft. A king at 200cm accommodates most sleepers comfortably and removes the issue of feet overhanging the end of the mattress, which is a common complaint with standard sizes.

In terms of mattress type, the same principles apply as with smaller sizes. Pocket sprung king size mattresses are one of the better choices for couples because individually wrapped springs respond to each person's weight and movement independently, reducing the amount of disturbance transferred across the bed. Memory foam king size mattresses suit those who need more pressure relief, particularly side sleepers or anyone with hip or shoulder discomfort. Hybrid versions combine both for a middle ground that suits a wide range of sleepers.

Room size is worth thinking through carefully before buying a king. A king size bed frame with mattress typically requires a room of at least 3.5 x 3.5 metres to sit comfortably with adequate clearance on three sides. In a smaller room, a king can feel like it dominates the space and leave little room to move around the bed, which affects how practical the room is day to day.

Mattress depth and quality markers are worth paying attention to at the king size level because the size amplifies any shortcomings. A thin or poorly constructed king size mattress will sag and lose support faster than the same mattress in a smaller size, simply because of the greater surface area involved. Look for a mattress with a quality edge support system, which prevents the sides from compressing when you sit on the edge.