Headboard and base buying guide: South African bed sizes explained
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Beds are sold in names, not centimetres, and the names are different in South Africa to the rest of the world. Here is what each size actually measures and how to choose between them.
South African bed sizes
| Size | Mattress | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Single | 91 x 188 cm | Children, student rooms, guest rooms |
| Three-quarter | 107 x 188 cm | Teenagers, small spare rooms |
| Double | 137 x 188 cm | One adult comfortably, two at a squeeze |
| Queen | 152 x 188 cm | Two adults, the most popular main-bedroom size |
| King | 183 x 188 cm | Two adults who want space, or a child who climbs in |
A headboard and base in a given size is built to take that mattress, with the headboard slightly wider than the mattress so the edges are covered. If you already own a mattress, measure it before ordering; a 137 cm mattress on a queen base leaves a gap on each side.
How much room do you need?
Add about 60 cm on each side of the bed for pedestals and walking space, and 80 cm at the foot. A queen bed with two pedestals therefore wants a wall at least 2.7 m wide. A king needs 3 m. If the room is tight, choose a slimmer pedestal (Lana, Auw, Daiton) or a single pedestal on the open side.
Choosing a headboard style
- Plain panel (Boad, Teamo, Beleng): the calm choice; the bedding does the talking.
- Tall or double-board (Cuare, Seas): adds height and shadow, makes a bedroom feel like a hotel room.
- Textured fabric (Vonia corduroy, Raoila velvet): warmth and light-play; pairs with a matching corduroy or velvet couch in the lounge.
- Wall-to-ceiling panels (Pale): the whole wall becomes the headboard. The most transformative thing you can do to a main bedroom.
- Kids (Bar Kiddies, Mickey): rounded, soft and in colours children choose.
Base, mattress and pedestals
Our headboards come with a matching upholstered base; the mattress is sold separately so you can choose the firmness. On the product page you will see our SONO mattresses offered as an add-on in the same size. Pedestals are sold singly, so order two for a pair, in the same colour as the headboard or a deliberate contrast (a natural timber Raas or Tabs against a grey headboard works well).
Delivery and assembly
Headboards are delivered assembled and placed in the room. Tell us about stairs and lifts in the order notes. If you are replacing an old bed, let us know and we will advise on timing so you are never without a bed for a night.