Do Two Single Beds Make a Double? Here’s What You Need to Know

If you’ve ever thought about pushing two single beds together to create a double, you’re not alone. Whether you’re dealing with an awkward guest room layout, a tight budget, or just want a quick solution, it seems like a logical idea.  

But does it actually work? Do 2 single beds make a double? Let’s break it down for you. 

The short answer: yes, kind of 

Two single beds can be pushed together to sort of make a sort-of double bed, but it’s not as straightforward as it sounds. It depends on the size of the single beds, the type of mattress you use, and how much effort you’re willing to put into making it work. Let’s explore this in more detail. 

What size are UK single beds? 

In the UK, a standard single bed measures 90cm x 190cm (3ft x 6ft3). If you push two single beds together, you’ll end up with a combined size of 180cm x 190cm (6ft x 6ft3). 

This is actually slightly larger than a standard UK double bed (135cm x 190cm) and closer to a super king (180cm x 200cm). So, size-wise, two singles can definitely work – but that’s not the whole story. 

The mattress dilemma 

The biggest challenge when combining two single beds is what to do about the mattresses. Here are your options: 

1. Use two single mattresses 

Makes sense right? If you have two single bed frames, two single mattresses are made to measure. 

Pros: Simple and convenient. Each person gets their own space, so it’s great if you and your partner prefer different levels of mattress firmness. 

Cons: The dreaded “gap in the middle.” If you move around at night, you might end up wedged in the gap, which is less than ideal for a good night’s sleep. 

2. Use a double or super king mattress 

This option counteracts the gap issues you’d face with two single mattresses, but it creates additional issues of it’s own. 

Pros: No gap! A single large mattress will create a seamless sleeping surface, perfect for couples. 

Cons: This only works if the two single bed bases can be securely joined together. Otherwise, the mattress might sag or feel uneven where the beds meet. Also, a double mattress would not be wide enough to fill the width of two double beds pushed together which could result in your mattress sliding. Furthermore, a super king mattress will be slightly too long for two single beds side by side. As such, you’ll have to manipulate the mattress to make it fit which could disrupt the fillings in your mattress. Less than ideal.  

What about the bed bases? 

If you’re using two separate single bed frames, things can get tricky. They may not line up perfectly, leaving an uneven surface. To fix this, you’ll need: 

• A bed connector strap to join the two bases together securely. 

• A mattress topper or mattress connector to cover the gap on the top of the mattress and create a uniform sleeping surface. 

Alternatively, if you’re starting from scratch, consider investing in a zip and link bed. These are designed to be used as two singles or zipped together to form a super king. Perfect for flexibility! 

When does this arrangement work best? 

Combining two single beds can work brilliantly in certain situations, such as: 

• Guest rooms: Great for hosting couples or single friends. 

• Couples with different needs: If one of you loves a firm mattress and the other prefers soft, separate single mattresses let you have the best of both worlds. 

• Temporary setups: If you’re waiting for a new bed or need a quick solution, pushing two singles together is a quick and easy fix short-term. 

When it might not be ideal 

This setup can fall short if: 

• You toss and turn a lot: The gap between two single mattresses can be uncomfortable. 

• You want a polished look: Two single beds may not look as seamless as a standard double or king-sized bed. 

• You’re not willing to invest in connectors or toppers: Without these, the setup can feel wobbly and uneven. 

Final thoughts: does it work? 

Yes, it can. Two single beds can absolutely make a double (or rather a DIY super king). However, it takes a bit of planning to make it comfortable and practical. The key is investing in the right accessories – like a mattress topper, connectors, or even a large mattress – to eliminate the gap and create a smooth sleeping surface. 

But realistically, investing in a double bed and mattress will ensure a comfier sleep for both you and your partner long term.  

So, if you’re trying to make the most of what you’ve got or create a flexible sleeping arrangement, give it a go. Just be prepared to put in a little effort to make your “DIY double” a dream to sleep on!