Caravan mattress sizes: the ultimate buying guide

27 September 2023

Ever tried fitting a square peg in a round hole? That’s what it feels like when you get the caravan mattress size wrong.

But don’t fret! Understanding caravan mattress sizes doesn’t have to be a puzzle.

Whether you’re gearing up for a long road trip or want to make your caravan a cosy haven, choosing the right mattress size is crucial.

And guess what?

We’ve got the ultimate guide to help you navigate this maze. From single to queen, custom sizes, and everything in between, we’ll break it down with actionable insights.

Decoding mattress types for your caravan

Caravans, much like our homes, are places of rest and relaxation. But unlike our homes, space is at a premium.

Standard caravan mattresses often differ from the ones we have in our homes. While we might be used to king, queen, and double in our bedrooms, caravans have their own standards.

And trust us, understanding these can save you a world of discomfort.

There are several different bed shapes in caravans:

● nearside caravan mattresses—these mattresses are designed specifically for caravans with beds situated on the nearside, ensuring a snug fit and optimal comfort

● offside caravan mattresses—tailored for caravans with offside bed placements, these mattresses offer a perfect fit and enhanced sleeping experience

● island caravan mattresses—ideal for caravans with island bed configurations, these mattresses provide ample space and comfort for a restful night

● island with bolster caravan mattresses—these mattresses come with an added bolster, perfect for island bed setups in caravans requiring extra support and cushioning

● rectangular caravan mattresses—a classic choice for those seeking a straightforward design, these mattresses fit standard rectangular bed frames in caravans

Each of these mattresses is crafted to cater to specific caravan bed configurations.

The different caravan mattress sizes

Single caravan mattresses

Ah, the single life! Single caravan mattresses are your go-to if you’re a solo traveller or value your personal space.

But remember, not all singles are created equal. Some might be narrower, some longer. It’s all about finding that perfect fit, much like Cinderella’s slipper.

And the dimensions? Typically around 75cm x 190cm for a small single. And usually measures 90cm x 190cm for a standard single.

Double caravan mattresses

Double the size, double the fun? Well, only sometimes.

There are standard doubles, and then there are static caravan doubles. It’s a bit like choosing between tea and coffee in the morning.

Both have their merits, but your choice will depend on your caravan’s dimensions and your personal preference.

The dimensions? A small double (or Three Quarter), often 120cm x 190cm. A standard double is commonly 135cm x 190cm.

Custom-size mattresses

Sometimes, off-the-shelf just doesn’t cut it. Imagine ordering a pie and getting a slice that’s not quite right. Frustrating, right?

That’s where custom-sized mattresses come into play. Tailored to your needs, they ensure you don’t have to compromise on comfort.

Unlocking the perfect caravan mattress size: key considerations

Space & layout of your caravan

Space is the final frontier, especially in a caravan. Before diving into the world of caravan mattresses, take a moment to measure your available space.

It’s a bit like plotting a garden—you need to know where everything will fit before you start planting.

Comfort & sleep quality

Ever tried sleeping on a bed that feels like a plank of wood? It’s not the best experience.

Whether it’s memory foam or pocket sprung, the material of your mattress plays a pivotal role in determining your sleep quality. It’s not just about size—it’s about how that size feels.

Custom comfort: tailoring your sleep space

In the world of caravan mattresses, one size doesn’t fit all. Sometimes, you need a bit of a personal touch.

Customisation is like having a suit tailored. It’s crafted to your exact specifications, providing a perfect fit every time.

Whether you have an oddly shaped caravan or specific levels of comfort in mind, going custom can be a game-changer.

Tips for purchasing the ideal caravan mattress

Understanding your needs

Before you dive into the vast ocean of caravan mattresses, take a moment to reflect. What do you need? It’s a bit like preparing a shopping list.

Knowing what you want can save you from those impulse buys.

Researching brands & reviews

In the digital age, we’re blessed with a plethora of information. A quick online search can reveal which brands are top-notch and which might be shoddy.

Remember, a mattress is an investment. Would you buy a car without checking its reviews?

Trying before buying

Would you buy shoes without trying them on? Probably not. The same logic applies to mattresses.

If possible, give them a test run. Feel the material, test the bounce, and imagine a night’s sleep on it.

Warranty & return policy

Life’s unpredictable. Sometimes, what seems perfect‌ might not be upon closer inspection. Make sure the mattress comes with a solid warranty and return policy. It’s like having a safety net, just in case.

Materials matter: dive into comfort choices

The material of your mattress isn’t just about comfort; it can also influence size. Memory foam, for instance, can adapt to the shape of your body, providing a snug fit.

On the other hand, pocket-sprung mattresses offer a bouncy feel, with each spring working independently. It’s a bit like choosing between a trampoline and a cushion. Both are fun but in very different ways.

Sleep right: health & ergonomics unveiled

A good night’s sleep is vital for our health. But did you know that the wrong mattress size or material can wreak havoc on your back?

It’s essential to consider the ergonomics of your mattress. After all, we spend a third of our lives sleeping. Why not make it as comfortable as possible?

Eco-friendly choices: sleep responsibly

In today’s world, being eco-friendly isn’t just a trend—it’s a necessity.

From the materials used to the manufacturing process, it’s essential to consider the environmental impact of your mattress. After all, every little helps.

Smart spending: quality within your budget

Money makes the world go round, but it shouldn’t cost the earth to get a good night’s sleep. From budget-friendly options to luxury picks, there’s something for every pocket. But remember, sometimes you get what you pay for.

Easy installation: setting up your sleep haven

So, you’ve got your perfect mattress. Now what? Installation can be tricky, especially in the confined space of a caravan.

But with some patience and the right tools, you’ll be sleeping soundly in no time.

Eco-smart disposal: the green goodbye

Out with the old, in with the new. But what to do with your old mattress?

In today’s eco-conscious world, tossing it out isn’t an option. There are plenty of eco-friendly ways to say goodbye to your old mattress, from recycling to repurposing.

Disposing of a used caravan mattress responsibly in the UK is essential for both the environment and to adhere to local regulations.

Here’s a short guide to help you with the process:

1. Local council collection

Many local councils offer bulky waste collection services, which often include mattresses. Check with your local council’s website or contact them directly to inquire about this service.

2. Recycling centres

Numerous recycling centres across the UK accept mattresses. Before heading to one, make sure they accept caravan mattresses specifically, as these can differ from regular household mattresses.

3. Specialist mattress recycling services

Some companies specialise in mattress recycling. They ensure they recycle as much of the mattress as possible‌, reducing the environmental impact.

4. Charity donations

If your caravan mattress is still in good condition, consider donating it to a charity. Some charities accept mattress donations, provided they are in a usable state.

5. Manufacturer take-back schemes

Some mattress manufacturers or retailers offer take-back schemes when you purchase a new mattress. They’ll take away your old mattress for recycling or disposal.

6. Avoid fly-tipping

Dumping waste (including mattresses) in places not approved for waste disposal is illegal. This act, known as fly-tipping, can result in hefty fines.

7. Consider upcycling

If you’re feeling creative, think about ways to repurpose your old caravan mattress. For instance, you can use the foam from inside for cushioning in various DIY projects.

Finding your perfect sleep sanctuary

Navigating caravan mattress sizes can feel like threading a needle in the dark.

But remember, you’re not alone in this journey. We’ve all faced the daunting task of finding that perfect fit, ensuring our caravan becomes a true home away from home.

Think of it as a puzzle; with the right pieces, everything falls into place.

And the benefits? Oh, they're countless!

From restful nights to energised mornings, the right mattress size can transform your caravan experience.

Use the insights from this guide and craft your perfect sleep sanctuary today!

Specialist caravan insurance through Ripe

Now that you know how to select the best mattress for your caravan, you may want to protect the rest of your holiday home through specialist caravan insurance.

At Ripe, we arrange cover for your caravan up to the value of £175,000. You can also opt for additional cover to protect your contents and awnings.

Your caravan will be protected against damage caused by fire, lightning, storms, flooding, frost, and theft. Plus, accidental and malicious damage are covered, too.

Click here to learn more about how we can help or create an instant online quote in minutes.

Please note the information provided on this page should not be taken as advice and has been written as a matter of opinion. For more on insurance cover and policy wording, see our homepage.

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