Large Single vs Small Double: What’s the Difference?

If you need more sleeping space than a standard single bed but do not have room for a full double, two sizes often come into consideration: the Large Single and the Small Double.

They may look fairly similar at first glance, but there is an important difference in width. A Large Single is typically around 3ft 6in (107cm) wide, while a Small Double is usually 4ft (120cm) wide.

That extra 13cm can make a noticeable difference to sleeping space, room layout and the bedding you need.

Large Single vs Small Double at a Glance

Because both Large Single and Small Double beds can be produced in different lengths, always measure the actual mattress before ordering bedding.

What Size Is a Large Single Bed?

A Large Single bed is normally around 3ft 6in wide, or approximately 107cm.

Common mattress dimensions include:

• 107 x 190cm – approximately 3ft 6 x 6ft 3in
• 107 x 200cm – approximately 3ft 6 x 6ft 6in
• 107 x 213cm – approximately 3ft 6 x 7ft

Large Single beds are sometimes described as three quarter beds or super singles, although these names are not always used consistently between manufacturers.

If you want more detail on the size itself, read our Large Single Bed Size Guide.

What Size Is a Small Double Bed?

A standard UK Small Double mattress is approximately 4ft wide, or around 120cm.

The most familiar Small Double size is:

• 120 x 190cm – approximately 4ft x 6ft 3in

Longer Small Double mattresses are also available, including 6ft 6in and 7ft options.

You may also hear a Small Double described as a three quarter bed, which is one reason the terminology around these two bed sizes can become confusing.

How Much Wider Is a Small Double?

A Small Double is approximately 13cm wider than a typical Large Single:

• Large Single: approximately 107cm wide
• Small Double: approximately 120cm wide

For one sleeper, 13cm can make a noticeable difference. A Small Double provides more room to stretch out, while a Large Single offers a useful compromise when floor space is limited.

Which Takes Up Less Bedroom Space?

The Large Single wins if space is the priority.

A 107cm-wide bed can be easier to accommodate in a smaller bedroom while still providing significantly more sleeping space than a standard 90cm single.

This can make a Large Single particularly useful for:

• Guest bedrooms
• Teenagers' rooms
• Box rooms
• Smaller apartments
• Rooms where you still need space for wardrobes or desks

A Small Double gives you more sleeping space, but the extra width can make a room feel noticeably tighter.

Which Is Better for One Person?

Both sizes work very well for one person.

A Large Single is usually enough if you simply want more space than a standard single. It provides extra shoulder and turning room without occupying as much floor area as a Small Double.

A Small Double may be better if you prefer to spread out, sleep with pets, or simply want a more generous mattress.

Can Two People Sleep in a Small Double?

Yes, but a Small Double is compact for two adults.

At around 120cm wide, each person has substantially less space than they would in a standard double bed. It can work for occasional use, guest rooms or couples who do not mind sleeping closely together.

A Large Single, by comparison, is normally intended for one person.

Which Is Better for a Teenager?

A Large Single can be an excellent choice for a growing teenager because it provides more sleeping room than a standard single without taking over the bedroom.

A longer Large Single mattress, such as 107 x 200cm or 107 x 213cm, can be particularly useful for taller teenagers.

A Small Double gives even more room, but you need to consider whether the bedroom has enough floor space for a 120cm-wide mattress.

Do Large Single and Small Double Beds Use the Same Bedding?

No. The mattresses are different widths, so fitted bedding should match the actual mattress size.

A Large Single mattress is typically around 107cm wide, while a Small Double is around 120cm wide. A fitted sheet or mattress protector made for one size should not be expected to fit the other properly.

Large Single Fitted Sheets vs Small Double Fitted Sheets

Large Single fitted sheets are designed for mattresses around 107cm wide. Small Double fitted sheets are designed for mattresses around 120cm wide.

Using a Small Double sheet on a Large Single mattress can leave excess material, while trying to stretch a Large Single sheet over a Small Double mattress is likely to result in a poor fit.

You can shop our Large Single Fitted Sheets or our Small Double Fitted Sheets depending on your mattress size.

What Duvet Should You Use on a Large Single?

A standard single duvet can be used on a Large Single bed, but it may not provide much overhang at the sides.

Our Large Single Duvets measure approximately 152 x 220cm, providing more width and length than a standard single duvet.

This makes them especially useful on 3ft 3 and 3ft 6 beds.

What Duvet Should You Use on a Small Double?

Small Double beds are often paired with a Small Double duvet rather than a standard single.

Victoria Linen's Small Double duvet size is approximately 184 x 220cm, providing better side coverage for a 4ft-wide bed.

See our Small Double Bedding range for fitted sheets, duvets, covers and protectors.

Which Size Is Better for Tall Sleepers?

The width of the bed is only part of the decision. Mattress length can be just as important.

Both Large Single and Small Double beds are available in longer versions, including 6ft 6in and 7ft lengths.

If you are tall, it is often better to choose your bed based on the mattress length first and then decide how much width you need.

A 107 x 213cm Large Single, for example, provides significantly more length than a standard UK single while still keeping the bed relatively narrow.

Which Is Better for an Adjustable Bed?

Large Single sizes are commonly found among adjustable and electric beds, particularly around 107 x 200cm.

Small Double adjustable beds are also available, but the wider mattress naturally requires more room.

If you have an adjustable bed, it is particularly important to use fitted sheets and mattress protectors that match the exact dimensions and remain secure as the mattress moves.

See our Adjustable Bed Bedding range for specialist options.

Large Single or Small Double: Which Should You Choose?

A Large Single is likely to suit you better if:

• You sleep alone
• You want more space than a standard single
• Your bedroom has limited floor space
• You need a longer specialist mattress
• You have a 3ft 6 adjustable bed

A Small Double may be better if:

• You want maximum sleeping space in a compact room
• You prefer to spread out when sleeping
• The bed may occasionally be used by two people
• Your room can comfortably accommodate a 4ft-wide mattress

For many single sleepers, the Large Single provides a particularly good compromise between comfort and space.

Large Single vs Small Double FAQs

Is a 3ft 6 bed a Small Double?

No. A 3ft 6 bed is generally considered a Large Single. A UK Small Double is normally around 4ft or 120cm wide.

Is a Large Single smaller than a Small Double?

Yes. A typical Large Single is around 107cm wide, while a Small Double is around 120cm wide.

Is a Three Quarter bed a Large Single or Small Double?

The term Three Quarter bed is used inconsistently. Some retailers use it for 3ft 6 Large Single beds, while others use it for Small Doubles. Always check the actual mattress measurements before buying bedding.

Can I put a Small Double fitted sheet on a Large Single bed?

It may fit loosely, but it is unlikely to give a neat or secure fit. A fitted sheet made for the correct Large Single mattress dimensions is preferable.

Which bed is better for a small bedroom?

A Large Single usually takes up less floor space while still providing more sleeping room than a standard single, making it a good option for smaller bedrooms.

Which is better for a tall person?

Either can work well if you choose a longer mattress. Large Single mattresses are available in lengths including 200cm and around 213cm, which can be useful for taller sleepers.

Shop Large Single and Small Double Bedding

Whichever bed size you choose, correctly sized bedding makes a significant difference to fit and comfort.

Explore our Large Single Bedding for 3ft 6 beds, or browse our Small Double Bedding range for 4ft beds.