Single Mattress Size Australia: Best for Kids & Small Rooms
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When space is limited, the humble single mattress often becomes the most practical solution.
Whether you're furnishing a child’s bedroom, setting up a guest space, or trying to maximise a small apartment layout, a single mattress remains one of the most versatile bed sizes in Australia.
But how big is a single mattress exactly? And is it still comfortable enough for teenagers or adults?
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the single mattress size in Australia, including dimensions, room planning tips, who it suits best, and when it might make sense to upgrade to a larger size.
If you want to compare all standard bed sizes, you can also explore our complete Bed Mattress Size Guide Australia for a full overview.
What Is the Standard Single Mattress Size in Australia?
A standard single mattress in Australia measures 92 cm wide by 188 cm long.
This makes it the smallest commonly used adult mattress size available in Australia.
Compared with other popular mattress sizes:
| Mattress Size | Dimensions |
|---|---|
| Single | 92 × 188 cm |
| King Single | 107 × 203 cm |
| Double | 138 × 188 cm |
| Queen | 153 × 203 cm |
A single mattress offers enough width for one person while keeping the overall footprint compact, which makes it perfect for smaller bedrooms.
Because the length is the same as a standard double mattress, a single bed can still accommodate many teenagers and adults comfortably.
Why Single Mattresses Are Still Popular in Australia
While larger mattresses like queen and king dominate master bedrooms, single beds remain extremely common across Australian homes.
The main reason is simple: space efficiency.
Single mattresses are frequently used in:
- Kids’ bedrooms
- Guest rooms
- Small apartments
- Shared children’s rooms
- Bunk beds or trundle beds
Because they take up far less floor space than larger beds, they make it easier to maintain a functional room layout.
Who Should Choose a Single Mattress?
A single mattress may be compact, but it’s ideal for several specific types of sleepers.
Children and Younger Kids
This is where single beds are most commonly used.
A single mattress gives children plenty of sleeping space while leaving room for:
- play areas
- desks
- toy storage
- wardrobes
Parents often choose single beds because they balance comfort with practicality.
Teenagers in Smaller Bedrooms
While many teenagers eventually upgrade to a king single, a standard single mattress can still work well if:
- the room is small
- the teenager isn’t particularly tall
- space is needed for study furniture
For teenagers who are taller than average, a king single’s additional length (203 cm) may be more comfortable.
Guest Bedrooms
A single mattress is also a smart choice for guest rooms.
Many homes use single beds when:
- guests usually stay alone
- the room doubles as an office
- the space is limited
Two single beds in a guest room can sometimes offer more flexibility than one large bed.
Small Apartments and Studio Living
In compact living environments, every square metre counts.
A single mattress helps maximise floor space while still providing a comfortable sleeping area.
For studio apartments or multi-purpose rooms, this smaller footprint can make a huge difference.
What Room Size Do You Need for a Single Bed?
One of the biggest advantages of a single mattress is how well it fits into smaller spaces.
Minimum Room Size
A bedroom of around 2.4 m × 2.7 m can comfortably accommodate a single bed with basic clearance space.
This allows room for:
- a small bedside table
- a wardrobe or dresser
- walking space
Ideal Room Size
For better comfort and layout flexibility, a room closer to 2.7 m × 3 m works well.
This allows more space for:
- desks or study areas
- additional storage
- comfortable movement around the bed
Because single beds are narrow, they leave much more usable floor space compared to larger mattresses.
Single vs King Single: What’s the Difference?
A common question Australians ask is whether to choose a single mattress or a king single mattress.
The difference comes down to both width and length.
| Size | Dimensions | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Single | 92 × 188 cm | Kids and compact rooms |
| King Single | 107 × 203 cm | Taller sleepers and teenagers |
A king single offers:
- more legroom
- slightly more width
- a larger overall footprint
A single mattress remains the better option when room size is the primary concern.
Single vs Double: When Should You Upgrade?
A double mattress is significantly wider than a single.
| Size | Width |
|---|---|
| Single | 92 cm |
| Double | 138 cm |
That’s an extra 46 cm of sleeping space.
Upgrading to a double can make sense when:
- an adult is using the bed long term
- extra movement space is preferred
- the bedroom is large enough
However, a double mattress also takes up much more floor space, which may not work in smaller rooms.
Mattress Types Available in Single Size
Just because a mattress is smaller doesn’t mean you have to compromise on quality.
Single mattresses are available in a wide range of constructions, including:
Memory Foam Mattresses
These mattresses contour to the body and help relieve pressure points. They’re popular for children and adults who prefer a softer feel.
Hybrid Mattresses
Hybrid mattresses combine foam layers with pocket springs.
They typically offer:
- better airflow
- stronger support
- improved durability
Hybrid designs are becoming increasingly popular in Australia.
Pocket Spring Mattresses
Traditional pocket spring mattresses provide responsive support and good ventilation, making them a reliable choice for many sleepers.
Choosing the Right Single Mattress for Kids
When buying a mattress for a child, comfort and support are essential.
Look for a mattress that provides:
- medium firmness for proper spinal alignment
- breathable materials for temperature regulation
- durable construction to last through growth stages
Children can use a single mattress for many years before needing to upgrade.
Bedding and Accessories for Single Beds
Single mattresses require appropriately sized bedding.
Standard options include:
- single fitted sheets
- single mattress protectors
- single doonas
Some families choose a slightly larger doona for extra coverage.
Using properly sized bedding helps maintain mattress hygiene and comfort.
Common Mistakes When Buying a Single Mattress
Although single mattresses are straightforward, buyers sometimes overlook a few key considerations.
Not Thinking About Future Growth
Kids grow quickly. If a child is already tall, a king single may be a better long-term investment.
Ignoring Room Layout
Always measure your room before purchasing a bed. Even a small mattress can feel cramped if furniture placement isn’t planned.
Choosing Price Over Support
A mattress that lacks proper support may affect sleep quality and comfort over time.
Investing in a well-designed mattress can make a significant difference.
Looking for a Comfortable Single Mattress?
Once you’ve decided that a single bed is the right size for your space, the next step is choosing a mattress that delivers the right balance of comfort, support and durability.
At Onebed, our mattresses are designed for Australian sleepers and available in all standard sizes — including single.
You can explore the full range here:
👉 Single Mattress Collection
Whether you're furnishing a child’s bedroom, a compact guest room or a small apartment, choosing the right mattress construction can make a big difference to sleep quality.
Here’s a quick overview of the available options.
Onebed Essential – Simple, Comfortable and Affordable
The Onebed Essential is a practical choice for:
- children’s bedrooms
- guest rooms
- first-time mattress buyers
It offers balanced medium support with durable foam layers designed for everyday comfort. If you want a reliable single mattress without unnecessary complexity, this model is a solid starting point.
Onebed Original – Hybrid Support for Growing Sleepers
The Onebed Original combines adaptive comfort foam with pocket spring support.
This hybrid construction provides:
- improved airflow
- better edge support
- stronger long-term durability
For teenagers or adults using a single mattress regularly, the added structure of a hybrid mattress can make sleep feel more supportive and comfortable.
Onebed Max – Premium Comfort and Pressure Relief
The Onebed Max is the most advanced option in the range.
Designed for sleepers who want a more luxurious feel, it features upgraded comfort layers that help distribute body weight evenly while maintaining stable support.
It’s an excellent option if the single mattress will be used long-term by a teenager or adult.
Choosing the Right Single Mattress
The right mattress depends on how the bed will be used.
- For kids or guest rooms → Essential
- For teenagers or regular use → Original
- For maximum comfort and durability → Max
All models are available in single mattress size (92 × 188 cm) and built to suit standard Australian bed frames.
If you’re still comparing mattress sizes, you can also revisit the size guide above to see how single beds compare with king single, double and queen options.
Is a Single Mattress Right for You?
A single mattress may be the smallest standard bed size in Australia, but it remains incredibly useful.
It works best for:
- children
- guest rooms
- small bedrooms
- compact living spaces
While it may not suit couples or taller adults, it provides a practical and comfortable solution for many households.
If you're still comparing bed sizes, exploring other options can help you find the best fit for your space and sleeping habits.
For a complete overview of all available sizes, check out our full Bed Mattress Size Guide Australia to see how single mattresses compare with king single, double, queen and king beds.
