When shopping for a mattress, there are many things to consider, including firmness, material, and feel. Mattress size is another important factor that many people forget about, but it’s actually one of the most important. It’s not just about mattress dimensions, size helps determine how much you’ll spend on your mattress.
You can choose from a range of mattress sizes, from a single bed (for when your child has outgrown a crib) to an extra-large California king (for couples who like to sleep extend). The size of mattress you choose will depend on your height, weight and preferences. In this mattress size guide, we explore the dimensions of each bed size, from the most common to custom options.
Double
38 x 75 inches (96.5 x 190.5 centimeters)
A twin size is ideal for children or single sleepers who want to maximize space in their bedroom. Because they take up very little space, they can fit in rooms as small as 7 feet by 9 feet. Double mattresses are popular with children because it’s the cheapest size you can buy and the bed won’t take up as much space in their room, leaving them room to play.
Learn more: Best double mattress
Twin XL
38 x 80 inches (96.5 x 203 cm)
Twin XL is a long twin mattress and is best suited for taller children, young adults in college, or single-sleeping adults who need extra legroom. An 8 foot by 10 foot room is the smallest you should go to comfortably fit a twin XL mattress. It is also common for brands to offer two twin XL mattresses as split king mattresses. Keep in mind that it is more difficult to find bedding that fits a twin XL mattress, as this size is most commonly used in college dorms. This means you can usually find plenty of twin XL bedding during back-to-school time. Other than that, you might be limited in what you can buy.
Complete
53 x 75 inches (134.5 x 190.5 cm)
Because full-size mattresses are larger than a twin bed, but less expensive than a queen bed, they are popular with young adults or couples who don’t mind snuggling to maximize space in their bedroom . The recommended room size for a full-size mattress is at least 10 feet by 10 feet.
Learn more: Best Complete Mattresses
Full XL
54 x 80 inches (137 x 203.5 cm)
A good compromise between a full size and a queen size is a full XL. It offers the same width as a double mattress but is as long as a queen mattress. Adults sleeping alone and needing extra legroom and/or pets would generally be comfortable in a full XL bed. Keep in mind, however, that it will be a little more difficult to find bedding for an XL mattress than for a full or queen mattress.
Queen
60 x 80 inches (152.5 x 203 cm)
Queen size mattresses are best for single sleepers who value their space. They are also suitable for couples, as long as no one is taller than 6ft 5in. This is currently the most popular mattress size in North America. The recommended room size for a queen size mattress is at least 10 feet by 11 feet.
Learn more: Best Queen Mattresses
King
76 x 80 inches (193 x 203 cm)
A common choice for couples with children or single people who like more room to spread out, the recommended bedroom size for a king-size bed is at least 12 feet by 12 feet. A larger size bed costs more, both for the mattress and the bedding, so keep that in mind if you’re on a budget.
Learn more: Best King Mattresses
King of California
72 x 84 inches (183 x 213 cm)
A California king is longer than a standard king, but not as wide. It is best for tall people or couples who have pets who sleep on the bottom of your mattress.
Custom sizes
Perhaps the mattress sizes listed above are not what you are looking for. Instead, you want something that fits in a random corner of your bedroom or an extra-large mattress so your large family can gather for movie nights. Regardless, Healthline has a great list of best custom mattress brands you can order from.
How to choose a mattress size
Choosing the right size mattress is essential to getting a good night’s sleep. Keep these things in mind when shopping for a new mattress.
- Room size: Be sure to measure your bedroom to determine how much space you have for a mattress and bed frame.
- Number of sleepers: Do you sleep alone? Or do you sleep with a partner and three children? If it’s just for you, a twin or twin XL mattress may be enough in a small room. For couples, a queen or king mattress is suitable.
- Comfort and sleeping position: Believe it or not, your sleeping position plays a role in choosing the right mattress size. Back and stomach sleepers can generally make any size mattress work. For side sleepers, a queen or king mattress allows for more space to spread out comfortably.
- Budget: No surprises here. The larger the mattress, the higher the price. Consider your budget and balance it with your need for comfort.
- Other needs: Your mattress is an important investment that can last you for years. Think about the near future and ask yourself if your mattress can adapt to your plans. For example, if your family is likely to grow, you will want to choose a mattress that can be suitable for children or pets.
Although two people can sleep in a double bed, you’ll be more comfortable sharing a queen or king bed.
Mattress Size FAQ
What size bed is best for a couple?
It depends on how much space you have in your bedroom and how much space you or your partner needs. For maximum space in your bedroom, a queen bed is perfectly suited. Maybe even a full one if you feel like cuddling. For large master bedrooms, king or California king beds would be ideal.
What is the most popular mattress size?
Currently, the most popular mattress size is a queen size bed that measures 60 x 80 inches. It offers enough space for singles and couples and is more affordable than a king-size bed.
What is the difference between a king mattress and a California king mattress?
A California king mattress measures 72 x 84 inches, making it 4 inches narrower and 4 inches longer than a king mattress.
Are two twin mattresses equal to a King?
No. 2000/108 (I) Twin beds are 5 inches shorter than a king-size bed. However, two twin XL mattresses will make a king-size bed.