European King vs UK King: Bedding for a 160 x 200 Bed

If your mattress measures 160 x 200cm, you have what is commonly described in the UK as a European King or Euro King.

It is easy to confuse this with a standard UK King because both mattresses are approximately 200cm long. The important difference is the width: a European King is wider.

That difference matters most when buying fitted sheets, mattress protectors and other bedding that needs to match the mattress dimensions closely.

If your mattress measures 160 x 200cm, you should choose bedding made for a 160 x 200cm European King rather than assuming standard UK King bedding will fit.

What Is the Difference Between a European King and a UK King?

A UK King and European King are similar in length but not in width.

A European King is therefore approximately 10cm wider than a standard UK King mattress.

That extra width makes a noticeable difference when fitting a sheet around the mattress corners.

Is a 160 x 200cm Bed a European King?

Yes. In the UK, a mattress measuring 160 x 200cm is generally referred to as a European King or Euro King.

You may also see this size associated with:

• European bed manufacturers
• continental bed ranges
• some IKEA beds and mattresses
• imported bedroom furniture
• metric-size bed frames

Because bed-size names can vary, the safest approach is always to check the actual mattress measurements.

Will a UK King Fitted Sheet Fit a 160 x 200cm Mattress?

A standard UK King fitted sheet is generally made for a 150 x 200cm mattress.

Although the length is correct, the sheet is around 10cm too narrow for a 160 x 200cm European King mattress.

You may be able to force a generously cut or stretchy UK King sheet over the mattress, but it can result in:

• tight corners
• the sheet pulling away during the night
• excessive tension on the elastic
• strained seams
• a less comfortable and less tidy fit

For the best fit, choose a 160 x 200cm fitted sheet made specifically for a European King mattress.

What Bedding Fits a 160 x 200cm Bed?

Some bedding needs to match the mattress dimensions exactly, while other items can be chosen according to personal preference.

Fitted Sheets

A fitted sheet should match the mattress width and length as closely as possible.

For a 160 x 200cm mattress, choose a 160 x 200cm European King fitted sheet.

You should also check the mattress depth before ordering, particularly if your bed has a deep mattress or mattress topper.

Mattress Protectors

A fitted mattress protector should also match the mattress dimensions.

A protector designed for a 150 x 200cm UK King mattress may be too narrow for a 160 x 200cm bed, so look for a European King or 160 x 200cm protector where possible.

Flat Sheets

Flat sheets are more forgiving because they do not need to wrap around shaped mattress corners.

You can often use a generously sized UK flat sheet on a European King mattress, provided there is enough fabric to tuck securely beneath the mattress.

If you prefer plenty of overhang or a deep tuck-under, check the finished dimensions of the flat sheet before ordering.

Duvets

Duvets do not have to match the mattress dimensions exactly.

For a 160 x 200cm bed, many people use a UK King duvet, while others prefer a larger duvet for greater side coverage.

The best choice depends on:

• whether one or two people share the bed
• how much duvet overhang you prefer
• whether you tend to pull the duvet during the night
• the overall height and depth of the mattress

Duvet Covers

Your duvet cover should match the size of your duvet rather than the mattress itself.

If you use a UK King duvet on your 160 x 200cm bed, choose a UK King duvet cover. If you choose a larger duvet, match the cover to that duvet size.

Does Mattress Depth Matter on a 160 x 200cm Bed?

Yes. Mattress depth is one of the most common reasons a fitted sheet appears to be the wrong size.

Two mattresses can both measure 160 x 200cm but have very different depths.

Modern mattresses can include:

• deep comfort layers
• memory foam
• pillow tops
• integrated toppers
• separate mattress toppers

If the sheet pocket is too shallow, the fitted sheet may keep slipping off even though the width and length are correct.

How to Measure a European King Mattress

Measure three dimensions before ordering fitted bedding:

1. Width – measure from side to side.
2. Length – measure from the head to the foot of the mattress.
3. Depth – measure from the underside of the mattress to the highest point of the sleeping surface.

If you normally use a topper, include the topper in the depth measurement.

A European King mattress should measure approximately 160cm wide x 200cm long.

Are IKEA King Beds 160 x 200cm?

Many IKEA beds and mattresses have been sold in European metric dimensions, including 160 x 200cm.

However, IKEA has used different mattress sizes across different ranges and time periods, so the brand name alone is not enough to confirm the correct sheet size.

Check the mattress label or measure the bed before ordering.

If the mattress measures 160 x 200cm, a European King fitted sheet is the appropriate choice.

What Fabrics Are Available for European King Fitted Sheets?

Once you have confirmed the 160 x 200cm size and mattress depth, you can choose the fabric according to the feel and level of care you prefer.

Easy Care Polycotton

A practical everyday choice that washes easily, dries quickly and generally needs less ironing than pure cotton.

100% Cotton Percale

A crisp, breathable cotton option with a cool, fresh feel.

Brushed Cotton

Our 175gsm brushed cotton provides a warmer, softer surface and is particularly popular in colder weather.

Bamboo & Cotton

A smooth and breathable bamboo-rich fabric with excellent moisture-management properties.

540 Thread Count Satin Stripe

A premium 100% cotton fabric with a subtle woven stripe and refined hotel-style finish.

1000 Thread Count Egyptian Cotton

A dense, smooth and substantial luxury option with a soft sateen finish.

You can view the full range on our 160 x 200cm European King fitted sheets page.

European King vs UK King: Which Sheet Should I Buy?

The easiest way to choose is to ignore the bed-size name for a moment and look at the actual measurements.

• If your mattress measures 150 x 200cm, choose a UK King fitted sheet.
• If your mattress measures 160 x 200cm, choose a European King fitted sheet.

The 10cm difference in width is enough to make a standard UK King fitted sheet a poor fit on many 160 x 200cm mattresses.

What If My Bed Is 140 x 200cm Instead?

A 140 x 200cm mattress is a different European size, usually known as a European Double.

If your mattress measures 140 x 200cm rather than 160 x 200cm, see our 140 x 200cm European Double fitted sheets.

You can also read our guide to European bed and sheet sizes for a wider comparison of common metric mattress dimensions.

European King vs UK King: Quick Answer

A UK King mattress measures approximately 150 x 200cm, while a European King measures 160 x 200cm.

For a 160 x 200cm mattress, use:

• a 160 x 200cm fitted sheet
• a 160 x 200cm mattress protector where available
• a fitted sheet depth suitable for your mattress
• a duvet and duvet cover chosen according to your preferred coverage

Shop 160 x 200cm European King fitted sheets →

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 160 x 200cm a UK King?

No. A UK King is normally approximately 150 x 200cm. A 160 x 200cm mattress is commonly known as a European King.

Can I use a UK King fitted sheet on a European King mattress?

A UK King fitted sheet is usually designed for a mattress 10cm narrower, so it may be too tight on a 160 x 200cm European King mattress.

What fitted sheet do I need for a 160 x 200cm mattress?

Choose a fitted sheet measuring 160 x 200cm and select a pocket depth that suits the depth of your mattress.

What duvet fits a 160 x 200cm bed?

A duvet does not have to match the mattress dimensions exactly. Many people use a UK King duvet, while others prefer a larger duvet for additional overhang.

Are IKEA King mattresses 160 x 200cm?

Some IKEA mattresses use the 160 x 200cm European King size, but sizes can vary between ranges. Always check the mattress dimensions before ordering.

Is European King bigger than UK King?

Yes. Both are approximately 200cm long, but a European King is around 160cm wide compared with approximately 150cm for a UK King.