When buying a mattress, you may be faced with the decision to change your mattress size, especially if you haven’t purchased a mattress for awhile, or are a new mattress buyer. But most people are unaware of just how many options they actually have, and may want to do a little bit of research in advance in order to choose the best option for their needs.
The following article provides a mattress size chart, as well as an explanation as to which size is best in which situation. So, before you commit to a mattress investment, be sure to take a closer look at what all is offered out there for you to choose from.
| Mattress Size | Dimension | Who It Is For |
| Twin | 38” x 75” | One child or average size adult |
| Twin XL | 38” x 80” | One tall teenager or tall adult |
| Full/Double | 54” x 75” | One adult or two average size adults |
| Queen | 60” x 80” | Two adults |
| King | 76” x 80” | Two adults, room for a child also |
| California King | 72” x 84” | Two adults, room for a child or two |
| Crib/Toddler | 28” x 52” | One baby or one toddler |
Twin Mattress
This is the most common bed size for children’s rooms and guest rooms. They are a popular choice for children and average sized adults as they provide plenty of space to move around and sleep comfortably.
Size
38 x 75 inches
Most Comfortable For
All children and most adults
Who Should Avoid It
Tall adults, couples, or anyone who wants to spread out more
Twin XL Mattress
This is a common mattress size for young adults and college students, and can often be found in dormitory rooms. It works well in small spaces while providing the added length many adults need.
Size
38 x 80 inches
Most Comfortable For
Taller teenagers and adults
Who Should Avoid It
Couples and anyone who wants to spread out when they sleep
Full/Double Mattress
Full, or double, sized mattresses used to be the standard sized bed for couples. They are compact, yet still provide enough room for two average size adults to sleep next to each other. NMow they are a more popular choice for single adults who like to spread out.
Size
54 x 75 inches
Most Comfortable For
Two average size adults, or single children or adults who like to spread out
Who Should Avoid It
Couples who like to spread out or taller adults
Queen Mattress
This is the most popular mattress size for both single adults and couples. It is long enough and tall enough to spread out in and is roomy enough for adults to have their own space without feeling crowded.
Size
60 x 80 inches
Most Comfortable For
Adults who like to spread out and couples who don’t mind being closer to one another despite having their own space.
Who Should Avoid It
Couples who like to spread out
King Mattress
A king sized bed is like placing two twin XL sized beds side by side. It offers a lot of room to move around in and is a popular choice for many couples. It does take up a lot of bedroom space so larger rooms are a need.
Size
76 x 80 inches
Most Comfortable For
Couples who like to spread out or adults who have children that like to climb into bed with their parents.
Who Should Avoid It
People who have small bedrooms
California King Mattress
The California king is the largest, common mattress you can buy. These are longer than a King sized option, but a little more narrow overall. They are perfect for tall adults.
Size
74 x 84 inches
Most Comfortable For
Tall couples who like to spread out and adults who have children who like to come lay in bed.
Who Should Avoid It
People who have small bedrooms
Crib/Toddler Mattress
Crib and toddler mattresses are designed to fit in crib and toddler beds. They are the same size to help make the transition from one bed to another as your child grows.
Size
28 x 52 inches
Most Comfortable For
Infants and toddlers
Who Should Avoid It
Children over three years of age
What Size Mattress Do I Need?
Obviously, you can use the information above to help guide you towards what size mattress you feel you need, but you might want to consider a few other details before making a final decision.
If you sleep alone, you may want to consider a twin, full or queen sized bed. Choose a larger option if you like to spread out. If you sleep with a partner, have a pet that likes to hop into bed with you, or children that like to cuddle, you may want to consider a queen or king mattress.
You may also want to consider your body type. Taller adults may want an XL option, or a queen sized length if sleeping alone; a queen or California king if a couple. If you have a larger body type, you will want to consider the width of the bed to determine how much room you have to comfortably turn around in.
Mattress Thickness Explained
There is a misconception that larger mattresses are thicker, but in fact most mattresses are all offered with the same profile depths. Average depths usually measure between 10 and 12 inches thick, but you can find mattress profiles ranging from 6 to 18 inches thick.
When choosing a mattress thickness you want to consider the overall weight that will be applied to the mattress when you, and your partner, sleep. Thicknesses are broken into three categories and also include the type of materials and construction of the bed as well.
Light
Light mattress categories are for sleepers who weigh 130 lbs or less. These are mattresses that generally measure 10 inches or less in thickness.
Average
Average mattress categories are for sleepers who weigh between 130 and 230 lbs. These beds will range from 8 to 12 inches in thickness, with many sleepers preferring a 10 to 12 inch profile.
Heavy
Heavy mattress categories are for sleepers who weigh 230 lbs or more. These options are usually 12 or more inches in thickness.
Choosing Sheet Sizes
Often people wonder which size sheets they can use with their mattresses. Sheets are specific to each mattress size, and you can easily find the common sheet measurements to work with your specific mattress. One thing you do need to pay attention to is your mattress depth. Not all sheets may have deep enough pockets for higher profile mattresses, so be sure to check these dimensions carefully prior to purchase.
This is also true of your comforter and duvet sizes. You can either buy a cover that is specific to your mattress size, or go up one size for a little extra room. For example, a king-size comforter works well over a queen-size bed.
Optional Mattresses Sizes
There are also custom sized mattresses in existence, as well as uncommon, yet available sizes. These include the Wyoming King, which measures 7 x 7 feet; as well as the Alaska King, which measures 9 x 9 feet. Both require custom bedding options as well.
Conclusion
If you have been wondering which mattress size may be best, hopefully this article has helped explain the most common mattresses sizes, their dimensions, and who they are best for. Even though custom sized, as well as larger, uncommon- yet available sizes exist- chances are you will choose from one of the sizes we have highlighted for yourself, and your family.
Also, always be sure to double check your sheets sizes, especially the pocket depth to ensure you have a snug, yet comfortable and trouble free fit. You can go up in your comforter and duvet sizes, just be sure not to size down so you have the insulation you deserve.
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