The History of the Three-Quarter Bed: From Victorian Charm to Modern Use

The ¾ bed first gained popularity in the Victorian era, during the mid-to-late 1800s. This was a time when efficient use of space was essential in both European and American households. At the time, homes often had smaller rooms, housing larger families. The three quarter mattress fulfilled the need for a space-saving sleep surface.

The ¾ bed struck a balance between size, design, and versatility:

• It offered more space than a twin for a solo sleeper who wants to stretch out.

• It took up less room than a double or full-sized bed.

• It often came with beautifully crafted cast iron or wood frames that featured ornate designs.
  

These beds were especially popular in guest rooms, children’s rooms, and servants’ quarters. Additionally, the ¾ bed was also found in modestly sized master bedrooms, making it a versatile bed size.

Although the three-quarter bed is nowhere near as popular as it was before, this unique bed size still has a place in modern homes.

Read on to learn more about the use of ¾ mattresses and how they can become a cherished part of present-day bedrooms.

A Quick Rundown on the ¾ Bed Size: How Does It Compare to Other Standard Sizes?

A three-quarter bed exists as an intermediate mattress size, falling between the twin and full mattress sizes. It measures around 48” wide and 75” long. Though the 3/4 mattress is smaller than a full bed and wider than a twin, this is its strongest selling point. It offers a unique blend of compactness without sacrificing sleep comfort.

This space-saving advantage explains why the 3/4 bed endured globally even as its popularity faded in the U.S.

The Decline and Rarity of the 3/4 Mattress in the U.S.

The three-quarter bed declined in popularity in the U.S. by the early 20^th century. Mattress manufacturing standardized sizes like the twin, full, queen, and king beds. The ¾ bed soon became a niche size.

While the antique bed frames themselves were preserved and passed down, the rarity of the three quarter mattress makes it hard for people nowadays to use their heirloom beds. For many antique lovers, finding a mattress that perfectly fits their historic bed is a challenge.

Even if the ¾ bed isn’t readily available in most mattress stores, custom mattress makers can craft this classic size, allowing people to once again enjoy this mattress in their contemporary homes.

Three Quarter Mattress Size: Popularity in Europe and Around the World

Although the ¾ bed has lost its shine in the US, due to changing trends in housing, it continues to thrive in Europe and beyond. Known in the UK and Ireland as a “small double”, this size is an important part of older buildings, historic hotels, and cozy European apartments.

In countries where heirlooms are a part of the culture, like France, Italy, and the Netherlands, antique bed frames have been passed down through generations, leading to a demand for custom ¾ mattresses.

The enduring use of the three-quarter bed in other countries highlights its ongoing practical value. It’s perfect for smaller layouts like modern studio apartments.

Why Three-Quarter Beds Work in Modern Homes

In recent years, there’s been a renewed appreciation for the ¾ bed, especially among antique lovers or those looking to maximize smaller spaces without compromising on sleep comfort.

Whether you’re furnishing a historic bedroom or designing a modern guest space, the three-quarter bed checks all the boxes when it comes to charm and space efficiency. This unique size is compact, but not cramped. Plus, it’s also compatible with a wide range of décor styles.

As home design trends continue to lean into intentional, space-saving living, the three-quarter bed is no longer just a relic of the past. It’s a smart choice for modern lifestyles.

Timeless Beds for Today’s Living: Custom-Made Three-Quarter Mattresses

Bringing an antique bed frame back to life requires a custom-fit mattress. If you’re also looking to add a charming three-quarter bed to your smaller bedroom, you’ll need to explore custom mattress options.

At Antique Bed Mattress, we specialize in made-to-order three-quarter beds that suit your frame, space, and sleeping preferences.

Whether your bed features carved wood, decorative ironwork, or unique dimensions, our custom mattress can be tailored to match your historical frame exactly. You can also choose from modern comfort materials like memory foam or hybrid layers.