Single Beds & Bed Frames

Choosing the Right Single Bed

No two bedrooms are the same, which is why this range includes everything from slimline frames to more feature-led designs with added storage. You can narrow down your options by material, finish, storage type and more to find a bed that works with your space and existing furniture.

If you’re furnishing a smaller room or updating a child’s bed, a single offers a practical, space-conscious solution without compromising on comfort.

Types of Single Beds

Understanding the different styles available can help you choose the best option for your needs. Here’s a brief overview of some of the most popular single bed types.

Ottoman Single Beds

Ottoman-style single beds provide a hidden storage area beneath the mattress, accessed by lifting the base. This makes them ideal for rooms where space is limited and extra storage is essential.

Single ottoman beds typically hold more than single drawer-based beds, and keep everything neatly tucked away. Assisted lift mechanisms make them easy to use, while sturdy construction ensures reliably durable support.

Single Divan Beds

Divan bases are built with a solid structure and often include optional drawers for storage. They’re a good fit if you want a single bed with built-in storage but don’t have the clearance for a lift-up frame. Many designs allow you to add a separate headboard, so you can customise the look without increasing the footprint too.

Divan beds are a popular choice when you want a compact base with flexible storage options. And with good reason thanks to their diverse finishes and varied storage configurations. And our divan beds all come with a minimum 5-year bed guarantee, so that you can rest-assured you’re investing wisely.

Upholstered, Wooden & Metal Frames

Fabric-upholstered single beds bring a softer, more inviting feel; ideal for guest rooms and teenagers’ spaces alike.

Wooden frames offer a classic, long-lasting look. Our single wooden beds include both natural and painted finishes to suit different interiors.

Single metal beds are durable, low-maintenance and work well in both modern and traditional settings.

Kids' Single Beds

Kids’ single beds come in a variety of styles to suit different ages, rooms and storage needs. A standard single bed offers a simple, space-saving option, while a single cabin bed often includes built-in drawers, shelves or cupboards underneath. Mid-sleeper beds raise the sleeping area to create useful space for storage, play or a desk, whereas high-sleeper beds maximise floor space and are generally better suited to older children. For shared bedrooms or sleepovers, single bunk beds provide two sleeping spaces in the footprint of one bed.

Other popular options include single beds with pull-out trundles, house-frame beds and novelty beds designed around children’s interests.

If you're looking for a single bed for a child, check out our dedicated kids' beds collection.

Size & Room Considerations

Let’s dive into what you need to know to make sure a single bed is the right fit for your space. In this section, we’ll talk about measuring and planning out your space properly.

Standard Single Bed Dimensions

A standard UK single mattress measures 90 cm wide by 190 cm long (3 ft x 6 ft 3 in). A single bed frame will usually be slightly larger than the mattress it holds, so always check the individual product dimensions before ordering.

Upholstered headboards, footboards, storage mechanisms and wider side rails can all increase a bed frame’s overall footprint. Measure the available floor space as well as entrances, doorways and stairs before choosing your bed.

Planning Your Space

Single beds are well suited to smaller rooms, but it’s still important to leave enough space around the frame for movement and access. Think about doorways, wardrobes, radiators and other furniture when deciding where to position your bed.

Why Sizes May Differ

While all single beds are designed for the same mattress size, the overall frame dimensions can vary. Features like thick upholstery, extended headboards or integrated storage can increase the footprint, while simpler designs stay closer to mattress size.

Always review full measurements before you buy.

Features to Consider

Beyond size and style, consider how storage, access and the bed base will work in your room.

Storage Options

Single beds with drawers are convenient if you have room beside the frame for them to open freely for access.

Ottoman designs are better for maximising storage capacity, using the entire base area, ideal for tighter spaces.

If you prefer a simpler frame, underbed storage boxes can offer a flexible alternative.

Design & Comfort Details

Headboards and footboards play a big role in both style and comfort. Padded headboards can make sitting up in bed more comfortable, while lower-profile designs help keep the room feeling open.

Some single frames also include features like sprung slats or reinforced bases to improve support and durability.

Mattress Compatibility

For the best sleep experience, choose a mattress that matches your bed size exactly. This ensures proper support and avoids movement or gaps.

Many single bed options are available as bundle deals, combining a frame and mattress for added convenience. Mattress types range from pocket-sprung to memory foam and hybrid, depending on your preference.

If you’re interested in our single bed and mattress sets, check out our dedicated collection page.

Bed Frame Materials

Bed frame materials affect a single bed’s durability, appearance, comfort, and price.

Solid wood frames offer natural warmth, dependable strength, and long-lasting performance, while engineered wood can provide a more affordable option with a consistent finish.

Metal frames are lightweight, sturdy, and often suited to modern or minimalist bedrooms.

Upholstered frames add softness and visual interest, although they may require more care to keep the fabric clean.

When choosing a material, consider the bed’s weight capacity, room style, maintenance needs, and how frequently it will be used.

Who is a Single Bed Suitable For?

A single bed can be a practical choice for one adult or child and is particularly useful where floor space is limited. Standard single beds work well in children’s and teenagers’ bedrooms, guest rooms, box rooms and smaller adult bedrooms. 

If space is especially tight, consider a small single bed. If you have more room and would prefer additional sleeping space, compare single beds with small double beds before deciding. 

Single Bed FAQs

What size is a single bed in the UK?

A standard single bed fits a mattress measuring 90 cm by 190 cm. Frame dimensions may vary slightly depending on the single bed design.

Is a single bed suitable for small rooms?

Yes, single beds are ideal for compact spaces. Just make sure there’s enough room to move around comfortably and access any storage features.

If a standard single is too wide for your available space, a small single bed may be a more suitable option. Explore small single beds here.

Are mattresses included with single beds?

Some products include a mattress, while others are sold as frame-only. Always check the product details to see what’s included. Or, if you’re specifically looking for a single bed and mattress set, check out our bed bundle page.

What do single bed frames cost?

Prices vary depending on materials, integrated storage and additional features. You’ll find everything from budget-friendly designs to more premium options with added storage and upholstery, all with a durability you can rely on.

What is the difference between UK and European single sizes?

UK and European single beds differ slightly in size. A standard UK single mattress measures approximately 90 × 190 cm, while a European single mattress is typically around 90 × 200 cm. European single beds are therefore usually 10 cm longer, so it is important to check the mattress and bed-frame dimensions before buying. Bedding made for one size may not fit the other correctly.

Why Buy a Single Bed from Bensons for Beds?

Whether you need a single bed for an adult, child, guest room or smaller bedroom, Bensons offers a range of styles to suit different spaces and storage needs. Choose from upholstered, wooden and metal bed frames, along with divan and ottoman beds with useful built-in storage.

When you shop at Bensons, you can also benefit from flexible ways to pay, delivery and assembly options, bed recycling and our minimum 5-year guarantee on beds.