European and US Bed Sizes: A Complete Comparison Guide

The United States and Europe follow different standards for many everyday items, from clothing measurements to kitchenware dimensions. Bedding is no exception. When you look at mattress and blanket sizes from each region, the numbers shift in small but important ways.

Most of the difference comes down to measurement systems. Europe uses centimetres, the United States uses inches, and the naming conventions do not match as neatly as the labels suggest. 

A Queen in one region is not a Queen in another, and a King can mean something entirely different depending on where it is made.

Comparing these sizes side by side will give you a clearer view of how the systems align.

Comparison: US vs. European Bed Sizes

Although the naming conventions can appear similar, the actual dimensions between US and European mattresses follow their own regional standards. The result is a set of sizes that overlap in some places and diverge in others.

Let's put them side-by-side to see how they really stack up.

How to Choose the Perfect Bed Size For Your Space

Choosing a bed size involves looking at your room, your needs, and how you use your space every day. 

Keep these 5 points in mind when choosing:

1. Measure your room

Make sure that the bed will fit comfortably with enough space to move on all sides. Leaving about 60 to 90 cm around the bed will help maintain a comfortable gap without squeezing past corners or limiting furniture placement.

2. Think about who will be sleeping

Decide whether the bed is meant for one person, two people, or a household that sometimes shares space with pets or children. If you sleep solo, a Full or Double-size bed may suffice, while couples generally feel more at ease with a US Queen or EU King.

3. Think about how much space you prefer

Some people like to sleep close to the edge, while others prefer extra room to stretch out or change positions freely. Since the lengths here are consistent, the main factor is width. Choosing a size with enough horizontal space ensures you stay comfortable throughout the night without feeling restricted.

4. Consider how you sleep

If you tend to shift positions frequently or share the bed with pets or children, choosing a wider mattress prevents crowding and helps everyone sleep without disturbing one another.

5. Look at the room layout

Visualize how the bed will sit in relation to doors, windows, and surrounding furniture. A size that works with the natural flow of the room will make everything feel more balanced and avoid blocking pathways or sources of light.

How to Build a Bed That Feels Complete

A bed feels complete when the bedding fits the mattress properly and is made from fabrics you genuinely enjoy using. 

Whether you prefer the crisp feel of cotton, the relaxed texture of linen, or the warmth of wool, the right material paired with the right size creates a surface that looks tidy and feels comfortable every day.

Choosing by dimensions rather than size labels ensures the blanket or duvet falls exactly where it should. A well-fitted piece will give your bed clean lines, while the right colour or motif adds visual depth without overpowering the room.

For a clear breakdown of how each blanket size behaves across different mattresses, our Blanket Size Guide lays out all the essential measurements. Matching those dimensions with expressive, artist-designed pieces from ZigZagZurich brings you naturally into the final step: building a bed that reflects your personal style.

Complete the Look With Thoughtfully Designed Bedding

With the right fit in place, the final layer is choosing textiles that bring a sense of harmony to the room. Proportion provides the structure, yet the fabric and motif are what shape the atmosphere. When these elements work together, the bed feels calm, intentional, and quietly expressive.

ZigZagZurich’s artist-designed bedding is created with this balance in mind. The pieces combine considered sizing with distinctive patterns and materials, offering a way to introduce colour, texture, and artistry without overwhelming the space. 

Explore ZigZagZurich’s bedding collection to find the pieces that complete your space!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a Full and a Double bed?

Full and Double refer to the same mattress size. In the updated chart, both measure 140 × 200 cm, which makes them interchangeable across most bedding categories.

Is there a "European Queen" size?

There is no queen-size in the European system. In terms of dimensions, the closest option to a US Queen is the EU King at 160 × 200 cm, which offers a similar overall footprint while following European standards.

Can I use US sheets on a European mattress?

Sometimes, but not always. The widths differ enough that fitted sheets may not sit securely. Flat sheets, duvets, and blankets are more flexible, though it is still best to compare the measurements to ensure a clean, well-fitted look.