Choosing the right headboard is not simply a matter of matching the name of your bed. A UK Single, Small Double, Double, King or Super King mattress has a standard size, but the headboard can have different external dimensions depending on its design and how it is fitted.
The width, height, mounting method and overall shape all matter. A wingback headboard, for example, can extend beyond the mattress, while a tall upholstered design can take up much more wall space than a simple strutted headboard.
This guide explains what size headboard you need, how headboard dimensions relate to your bed and mattress, and what to measure before buying.
What Size Headboard Do I Need?
As a starting point, choose a headboard designed for the same UK bed size as your mattress and bed frame.
For example, a 150 × 200 cm UK King mattress should normally be paired with a King-size headboard. However, this does not mean the headboard itself must measure exactly 150 cm wide.
Headboards can be:
- the same width as the mattress
- slightly wider than the mattress
- considerably wider because of side wings or a statement design
Always check the actual headboard dimensions and the compatibility information for the bed or headboard you are buying.
If you are still comparing mattress sizes, see our Complete UK Bed Size Guide before choosing a headboard.
Should a Headboard Be the Same Width as the Mattress?
Not necessarily.
A headboard can match the mattress width, extend slightly beyond it or be much wider depending on its design. The important point is that the headboard must be compatible with the bed frame or mounting system.
A simple headboard may stay close to the mattress width. An upholstered headboard can add width through padding, while a wingback design can extend further on both sides.
The bed frame matters too. The mattress may measure 135 cm wide, but the external frame could be wider because of its side rails and upholstery. If the headboard is designed to attach to the frame, its fixing points must also line up correctly.
Deeplay Buying Tip: Measure the bed base or complete frame as well as the mattress. The mattress tells you the sleeping area, but the frame and headboard determine the actual footprint in your bedroom.
UK Headboard Sizes: Quick Reference
The standard UK mattress dimensions below provide a useful starting point when choosing a headboard.
| UK bed size | Mattress width | Mattress length | Headboard starting point |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single | 90 cm | 190 cm | Choose a Single headboard |
| Small Double | 120 cm | 190 cm | Choose a Small Double headboard |
| Double | 135 cm | 190 cm | Choose a Double headboard |
| King | 150 cm | 200 cm | Choose a King headboard |
| Super King | 180 cm | 200 cm | Choose a Super King headboard |
These measurements describe the mattress, not the external dimensions of the headboard.
A headboard can be wider, taller or deeper than the mattress depending on its construction. This is especially important with upholstered, wingback and high-headboard beds.
What Size Headboard Do I Need for a Single Bed?
A standard UK Single mattress measures 90 × 190 cm.
If you have a Single bed, start by looking for a Single headboard. Then check the actual width and height of the design before ordering.
A simple Single headboard may stay close to the mattress width, while an upholstered or wingback design can extend beyond it. This extra width can matter in a compact bedroom, particularly if the bed sits between two walls or close to bedside furniture.
Also check whether the headboard is designed to attach to the bed frame, the wall or both. Different fitting systems require different measurements.
If you are choosing a complete bed rather than a separate headboard, check the full external dimensions of the frame rather than using the 90 cm mattress width alone.
What Size Headboard Do I Need for a Small Double?
A UK Small Double mattress measures 120 × 190 cm.
Choose a Small Double headboard as your starting point, but check the actual external width because the headboard may be wider than the 120 cm mattress.
This is particularly important in smaller bedrooms. A headboard that extends beyond the mattress can reduce the usable wall space beside the bed, which may affect bedside tables, sockets, switches or nearby furniture.
If you are deciding whether a Small Double is the right size for your room, our Small Double Bed Size Guide covers the mattress dimensions and practical room considerations in more detail.
What Size Headboard Do I Need for a Double Bed?
A standard UK Double mattress measures 135 × 190 cm.
A Double headboard is the correct starting size for a Double bed, but do not assume that every Double headboard is exactly 135 cm wide.
A floor-standing upholstered headboard, for example, can have different external dimensions from a slim strutted headboard. A wingback design can be wider again because the side wings extend beyond the central headboard.
Before buying, check:
- the headboard's total width
- its total height
- its depth
- how it attaches to the bed
- whether the fixing points match your frame
The room layout matters too. Measure the wall behind the bed and check the position of bedside tables, sockets, switches and windows.
What Size Headboard Do I Need for a King Size Bed?
A UK King mattress measures 150 × 200 cm.
A King-size headboard is the normal starting point, but the actual headboard width can vary significantly between designs.
A flat headboard may stay relatively close to the mattress width, while a wide upholstered, wingback or statement headboard can extend further across the wall.
The 150 cm mattress width therefore should not be treated as the required headboard width.
If you are choosing a complete King bed, measure the external frame and headboard together. This is particularly important when the bed has thick upholstery, side wings or a large padded headboard.
For a closer comparison between the two sizes, see our Double Bed vs King Size Bed guide.
What Size Headboard Do I Need for a Super King Bed?
A standard UK Super King mattress measures 180 × 200 cm.
A Super King headboard is designed around this bed size, but the actual external dimensions can vary by style.
A simple headboard may stay close to the 180 cm mattress width. A large upholstered or wingback headboard can extend beyond the mattress and take up considerably more wall space.
This becomes especially important in rooms where the bed sits between wardrobes, windows or other fixed furniture.
Before ordering a Super King bed with a large headboard, measure the full wall width and check the complete dimensions of the chosen frame.
How Tall Should a Headboard Be?
There is no single headboard height that works for every bedroom.
The right height depends on:
- the height of the bed base
- mattress depth
- ceiling height
- window position
- wall features
- how you use the bed
- the proportions of the room
- the style of the headboard
A lower headboard can suit a compact room or a bedroom with a low window. A taller headboard can work well when the bed is intended to be the main feature of the room.
If you regularly sit up in bed to read or watch television, consider how much padded headboard you want behind your shoulders.
Tall designs also need more careful planning. A high headboard may sit close to a window, picture rail, wall light, shelving or a television.
Deeplay's High Headboard Beds collection includes different tall upholstered styles, so always check the exact height listed for the individual bed rather than choosing based on photographs alone.
How Do I Measure for a Headboard?
Measuring before you buy can prevent problems with both fitting and bedroom layout.
1. Measure the mattress width
Measure from one side of the mattress to the other.
Use the actual mattress measurement rather than relying only on the name of the bed.
2. Check the bed-frame width
Measure the complete bed frame, particularly if it is upholstered.
The frame can be wider than the mattress because of padded side rails, wings or other construction details.
3. Check the headboard mounting method
Find out whether the headboard is:
- wall-mounted
- attached to the bed frame
- floor-standing
- designed for a specific fixing system
Do not assume that a headboard designed for one fitting method will work with another bed frame.
4. Measure the available wall width
Measure the wall where the headboard will sit.
If you are considering a wide or winged design, measure the full width available rather than only the space occupied by the mattress.
5. Check sockets and switches
Mark the position of sockets, switches and other wall controls.
A wide or tall headboard can cover them or make them difficult to reach.
6. Check windows and other obstacles
Measure the position of windows, window sills, radiators, alcoves, shelving and wall lights.
Pay particular attention to the height of the window if you are considering a tall headboard.
7. Check the ceiling height
This is particularly important for high and statement headboards.
A headboard that looks proportionate in a large bedroom can feel much more dominant beneath a low ceiling or sloping roof.
8. Consider bedside furniture
Measure the width and depth of your bedside tables and check where they will sit in relation to the headboard.
A wide headboard may reduce the space available for bedside furniture even when the mattress itself fits comfortably.
9. Check the exact product dimensions
Finally, check the individual product page.
Use the listed headboard width, height, depth and complete bed-frame dimensions rather than estimating from the mattress size.
For a complete room-measuring process, see our How to Measure Your Bedroom for a Bed guide.
How Much Wider Should a Headboard Be Than the Bed?
There is no universal amount that a headboard should extend beyond the bed.
Several designs can work:
Same-width headboard
A headboard can closely follow the mattress or bed-frame width. This creates a simple, neat appearance and can work well where wall space is limited.
Slightly wider headboard
Some designs extend beyond the mattress to create a little more visual width around the sleeping area.
Wide statement headboard
A much wider headboard can become the main feature of the wall. This can work well in a larger bedroom where there is enough space around the bed.
Wingback headboard
Wingback designs extend further at the sides because of their upholstered wings. The total headboard width can therefore be significantly greater than the mattress width.
The important measurement is the actual external width of the headboard you are buying, not a general rule about how much wider it should be.
How Do Headboard Styles Affect the Size You Need?
The style of headboard can change both its dimensions and the amount of room it needs.
Upholstered headboards
Upholstered headboards use padded fabric around the frame. Depending on the construction, this padding can add to the external width or depth.
Deeplay's Upholstered Beds collection includes panelled, wingback, bubble and other upholstered designs, with dimensions varying between individual models.
Wingback headboards
Wingback headboards have padded side sections that project from the main headboard.
These wings create a wider overall shape than a flat headboard, so measure the full width before ordering.
If you are comparing styles, our Wingback Beds collection and Wingback Beds vs Panel Beds guide can help you understand the difference.
High headboards
High headboards extend further vertically above the mattress.
They need particular attention around windows, ceiling slopes, wall lights, shelving and other features.
Floor-standing headboards
A floor-standing headboard extends down towards the floor and is generally a more substantial piece than a simple headboard fixed at the top of the bed base.
Its overall height, depth and fixing method should be checked against the bed frame.
Wall-mounted headboards
Wall-mounted headboards are fixed to the wall rather than relying only on the bed frame.
The available wall width, fixing surface and position of sockets or switches all need to be checked before installation.
Will a Wide Headboard Fit My Bedroom?
A wide headboard can fit comfortably even when the mattress does not use the full width of the wall, but you need to plan the complete arrangement.
Check the headboard against:
- bedroom walls
- bedside tables
- wardrobes
- doors
- windows
- sockets
- switches
- radiators
- wall lights
- shelves
- artwork
- television mounts
A common mistake is to measure the mattress and assume the remaining wall space is available for the headboard.
For example, a King mattress is 150 cm wide, but a winged or heavily upholstered headboard can extend beyond that measurement. The same principle applies to a Super King.
Deeplay Buying Tip: Measure the wall behind the bed before ordering a wide headboard. Mark the proposed headboard width with masking tape so you can see how it will sit beside your bedside tables and other furniture.
Does the Headboard Need to Match the Bed Frame Size?
The headboard needs to be compatible with the bed frame and its fixing system, but compatibility is not based on mattress size alone.
Before buying, check:
- mattress size
- bed-frame size
- headboard width
- fixing points
- mounting method
- headboard depth
- bed-base construction
- manufacturer compatibility information
A headboard designed for a 150 cm King mattress does not automatically fit every King-size bed frame.
The frame may have different fixing points, proportions or construction.
Some headboards attach to the bed base using struts or brackets. Others are designed to stand on the floor or attach directly to the wall.
If you are buying a complete Deeplay bed with an integrated headboard, use the exact dimensions shown on the individual product page rather than trying to match a separate headboard measurement.
What Should I Check Before Buying a Headboard?
Use this checklist before placing your order:
- Mattress size: Confirm the correct UK size.
- Bed-frame width: Measure the complete frame rather than the mattress alone.
- Headboard width: Check the full external width.
- Headboard height: Check the total height and how much will remain visible above the mattress.
- Headboard depth: Allow for any part of the headboard that projects into the room.
- Mounting type: Confirm whether it is wall-mounted, bed-mounted or floor-standing.
- Fixing points: Check that the headboard and bed frame are compatible.
- Wall width: Make sure the headboard fits comfortably on the wall.
- Sockets and switches: Check whether anything will be covered.
- Windows: Make sure the headboard will not obstruct windows, blinds or curtains.
- Bedside tables: Check that there is still enough room for the furniture you want beside the bed.
- Radiators: Make sure the headboard does not interfere with the radiator or access around it.
- Delivery access: Check doors, hallways, stairs and bedroom access for a large upholstered headboard or bed.
- Product specifications: Always use the measurements on the individual product page.
Which Headboard Size Is Right for My Bed?
Start with the bed size, then look at the headboard's actual dimensions and design.
Choose a standard-width headboard if:
- you want a simple proportion around the bed
- wall space is limited
- you have bedside furniture close to the bed
- you prefer a less dominant headboard
Consider a wider headboard if:
- you have plenty of wall width
- you want the bed to become a stronger feature
- the surrounding furniture allows the extra width
- the design is specifically made to extend beyond the mattress
Consider a tall headboard if:
- you have sufficient wall and ceiling height
- you want a strong vertical feature
- there are no windows, switches or wall fittings in the way
- you regularly sit up in bed
Consider a wingback headboard if:
- you have enough space for the side wings
- you want a more enclosed upholstered design
- the wings will not interfere with bedside furniture or walls
The best choice is not simply the largest headboard that fits. It should work with the bed frame, wall and furniture around it.
If you are choosing a Deeplay bed, check the individual product page for its exact dimensions, current 30-day trial and 2-year warranty terms before ordering.
FAQs
What size headboard do I need for a Double bed?
A UK Double mattress measures 135 × 190 cm, so a Double headboard is the appropriate starting size. However, the actual headboard may be wider or taller depending on its design. Check the individual headboard dimensions and fixing method before buying.
Should a headboard be wider than the mattress?
Not necessarily. A headboard can be the same width as the mattress, slightly wider or considerably wider. Wingback and statement headboards often extend beyond the mattress, so always check the actual external width.
Does a headboard have to be the same width as the bed?
No. It needs to be compatible with the bed and its fixing system, but its external width can vary by design. A wide upholstered or wingback headboard may extend beyond the bed base.
How tall should a headboard be?
There is no single ideal height. Consider the height of the bed, mattress depth, ceiling, windows, wall features and how you use the bed. If you sit up in bed regularly, a taller padded headboard may provide more support.
What size headboard do I need for a King Size bed?
A UK King mattress measures 150 × 200 cm. Start with a King-size headboard, then check the headboard's actual width, height and fixing requirements because these can vary between designs.
Can I use a wider headboard on my bed?
Yes, if the headboard is designed or suitable for your bed and the room has enough wall space. Check the mounting system, fixing points and total headboard width before buying.
How do I measure for a headboard?
Measure the mattress width, complete bed-frame width, available wall width and the height available above the mattress. Then check sockets, switches, windows, bedside furniture and the headboard's mounting requirements.
Does a headboard need to attach to the bed?
Not always. Some headboards attach to the bed frame, while others are floor-standing or wall-mounted. The correct option depends on the headboard design and the bed frame. Always follow the individual product's fitting instructions.
Can a headboard cover sockets?
It can, particularly if it is wide or tall. Check the position of sockets and switches before ordering and consider whether you still need easy access to them.
What is the difference between a wall-mounted and floor-standing headboard?
A wall-mounted headboard is fixed to the wall, while a floor-standing headboard extends down towards the floor and is normally positioned behind or connected to the bed. Each type has different fitting and space requirements, so check the manufacturer's instructions.
Conclusion
The right headboard size starts with your UK bed size, but the mattress measurement is only the starting point.
Check the mattress width, complete bed-frame dimensions, headboard width and height, mounting method and the space available on your wall. Wide, upholstered, wingback and high-headboard designs can extend well beyond the basic mattress footprint.
Before ordering, measure the wall, check sockets and windows, consider your bedside furniture and confirm the exact dimensions on the individual product page.
A few careful measurements can make the difference between a headboard that fits and one that creates problems once it arrives.
Tags:
