Buying a new mattress, a bedsheet or a mattress protector? The first question is always the same: what size is my mattress? In India, beds are usually called single, double, queen or king, but the exact numbers change from brand to brand. This guide explains the common mattress sizes in inches, feet and centimetres, how to measure your own mattress, and how to pick bedding that fits.
Mattress sizes in India at a glance
Here are the typical sizes most Indian mattress makers use. Length is always the first number, from head to foot.
| Bed size | Typical mattress (inches) | In feet | Good for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single | 72 x 36 inches / 182 x 91 cm | 6 x 3 feet | One child or one adult, hostel and guest rooms |
| Double | 72 x 48 inches / 182 x 121 cm | 6 x 4 feet | One adult who likes space, or a couple in a small room |
| Queen | 78 x 60 inches / 198 x 152 cm | 6.5 x 5 feet | Most couples, the most common master bedroom size |
| King | 78 x 72 inches / 198 x 182 cm | 6.5 x 6 feet | Couples who want extra room, or a child who joins at night |
You will also see small differences. Some single mattresses are 72 x 30 inches / 182 x 76 cm, some queen mattresses are 75 x 60 inches / 190 x 152 cm, and some king mattresses are 72 x 72 inches / 182 x 182 cm or 75 x 72 inches / 190 x 182 cm. That is why measuring your own mattress matters more than the name on the label.
Single, double, queen and king explained
Single bed
A single mattress is about 3 feet wide. It fits well in a child's room, a study or a guest room where floor space is tight. Two single beds pushed together are also a popular choice in many Indian homes, because they can be split up when guests come.
Double bed
In India, "double bed" often means a bed that is about 4 feet wide. It is roomy for one person and snug for two. Be careful here: many people call any bed for two a double bed, even when it is really a queen. Always check the width.
Queen bed
A queen mattress is about 5 feet wide and 6.5 feet long. It is the most popular size for couples and fits most master bedrooms without crowding the room. If you are not sure what size you have and the bed is for two people, it is very often a queen.
King bed
A king mattress is about 6 feet wide, so it is a full foot wider than a queen. It gives each person more space, which many couples enjoy on warm Indian summer nights. It needs a larger room, so leave at least 2 feet of walking space on the sides.
How to measure your mattress
It takes two minutes and a measuring tape. Measure the mattress itself, not the bed frame, because frames are often a few inches bigger.
- Length: measure from the head end to the foot end along the top of the mattress.
- Width: measure from one side to the other across the top.
- Depth (thickness): measure from the bottom edge to the top surface. Most Indian mattresses are between 4 and 10 inches / 25 cm thick.
Write the three numbers down and keep them on your phone. You will need them every time you buy bedsheets, a protector or a new mattress.
Choosing a bedsheet for your mattress size
A flat bedsheet needs to be larger than the mattress so it can drape over the sides and tuck underneath. Here is a simple guide using our sheet sizes.
| Your bed | Bedsheet size to choose |
|---|---|
| Single | 54 x 90 inches / 137 x 228 cm |
| Double or queen | 90 x 108 inches / 228 x 274 cm |
| King | 108 x 108 inches / 274 x 274 cm |
Depth matters too. Our satin bedsheet set in Queen size fits mattresses up to about 6 inches / 15 cm deep, and the King size up to about 9 inches / 22 cm deep, with enough fabric to tuck under. If your mattress is very thick, go for the bigger size so the sheet does not keep pulling loose. For a single bed, our 300 TC cotton bedsheet set comes in a 54 x 90 inches / 137 x 228 cm single size. You can see every option in our bedsheets collection, and our bedsheet size guide goes into more detail.
Choosing a mattress protector that fits
A mattress protector should fit snugly, like a fitted sheet, so it stays smooth under you. Our waterproof mattress protector has all-around elastic and fits mattresses up to 10 inches / 25 cm deep. It comes in these sizes:
- Single: 72 x 36 inches / 182 x 91 cm
- Queen: 78 x 60 inches / 198 x 152 cm
- King: 78 x 72 inches / 198 x 182 cm
- Custom Size: made to your mattress size
Have a double bed of about 72 x 48 inches / 182 x 121 cm, or a mattress that does not match any standard size? Choose Custom Size so it fits without bunching. Read our mattress protector buying guide to learn what else to look for.
Tips before you buy a new mattress
- Measure the room as well as the bed. Leave space to walk around the bed and open cupboards and doors fully.
- Check the bed frame. The mattress should sit inside the frame without gaps at the sides or hanging over the edge.
- Think about height. Taller family members may be more comfortable on a 78 inch / 198 cm long mattress than a 72 inch / 182 cm one.
- Plan your bedding. A thicker mattress needs a larger bedsheet and a deeper protector, so check depth before you buy.
- Protect it from day one. Put a waterproof protector on a new mattress before the first night, so it stays clean and fresh for longer.
Frequently asked questions
What is the standard double bed mattress size in India?
Most double mattresses are about 72 x 48 inches / 182 x 121 cm, or 6 x 4 feet. Some people also call a queen bed a double bed, so measure the width to be sure.
What is the difference between a queen and a king mattress?
Both are usually about 78 inches / 198 cm long. A queen is about 60 inches / 152 cm wide, and a king is about 72 inches / 182 cm wide, so a king gives you one extra foot of width.
Which bedsheet size fits a queen bed?
A 90 x 108 inches / 228 x 274 cm bedsheet fits most double and queen beds, with fabric to tuck in on all sides. Choose 108 x 108 inches / 274 x 274 cm if your mattress is very thick or you want a king-size look.
How thick is a normal mattress in India?
Most are between 4 and 10 inches / 25 cm thick. Check the thickness before buying a bedsheet or protector, because deeper mattresses need more fabric.
What if my mattress is not a standard size?
Measure the length, width and depth, then choose the next size up for a flat bedsheet. For a mattress protector, choose a custom size so it fits snugly.