Mattress Size: Why It Matters and What to Know When Deciding
The size of your mattress is more than just the dimensions. Here's everything you need to know.
There are a lot of factors to consider when you're shopping for a mattress -- the firmness, the material and the feel. Mattress size is another important factor many people forget about, but it's actually one of the most important factors. It's more than just the dimensions of the mattress, size helps determine how much you will spend on your mattress.
You have your pick between a range of mattress sizes, from single-person twin-sized bed for when your kid graduates from a crib to an extra-wide California king fit for couples who like to sprawl. What mattress size you choose will depend on your height, weight and preferences. In this mattress sizing guide, we explore the dimensions of each bed size, from the most common to custom-made options.
Twin
38 by 75 inches (96.5 by 190.5 centimeters)
A twin size is best for children, or single sleepers who want to maximize the space in their room. Because they take up very little space, they can fit in room sizes as small as 7 by 9 feet. Twin-size mattresses are popular for kids because it's the least expensive size you can buy, and the bed won't take up as much space in their bedroom, leaving them room to play.
Check out CNET's picks for the best twin mattresses.
Twin XL
38 by 80 inches (96.5 by 203 cm)
Twin XL is a long twin mattress and is best for taller children, young adults in college, or single-sleeping adults who need the extra leg-room. An 8- by 10-foot room is the smallest you should go to fit a twin XL mattress comfortably. It's also common for brands to have two twin XL mattresses as a split king. Keep in mind that it's harder to find bedding to fit a twin XL mattress because the size is most commonly used in college dorms. That means you can usually find plenty of twin XL bedding during back to school season. Outside of that, you might be limited in what you can buy.
Full
53 by 75 inches (134.5 by 190.5 cm)
Because full size mattresses are bigger than a twin, but cheaper than a queen, they're popular for young adults, or couples who don't mind cuddling to maximize the space in their bedroom. The recommended room size for a full size mattress is at least 10 by 10 feet.
Check out CNET's picks for the best full size mattresses.
Full XL
54 by 80 inches (137 by 203.5 cm)
A good compromise between a full and a queen size is a full XL. It offers the same width as a full mattress but is just as long as a queen. Single-sleeping adults who need the extra leg and or pet space typically would be well-off on a full XL bed. Keep in mind, though, it will be a little harder to find bedding for a full XL mattress than a full or queen.
Queen
60 by 80 inches (152.5 by 203 cm)
Queen size mattresses are best for single sleepers who enjoy their space. They're also good for couples, just as long as nobody is over 6 foot, 5 inches. It's currently the most popular mattress size in North America. The recommended room size for a queen size mattress is at least 10 by 11 feet.
Check out CNET's picks for the best queen mattresses.
King
76 by 80 inches (193 by 203 cm)
A common choice for couples with kids or single-sleepers who like extra space to spread out, the recommended room size for a king bed is at least 12 by 12 feet. A larger size bed comes at a higher cost, both for the mattress and the bedding, so keep that in mind if you are on a budget.
Check out CNET's picks for the best king size mattresses.
California king
72 by 84 inches (183 by 213 cm)
A California king is longer than a standard king, but not quite as wide. It's best for tall single-sleepers or couples who have pets who sleep on the bottom of your mattress.
Custom sizes
Maybe the mattress sizes listed above don't suit what you're looking for. Instead, you want something that fits between that one random nook in your bedroom, or an extra-oversized mattress so your big family can join together for movie nights. Whatever the case may be, Healthline has a great list of the best custom mattress brands you can order from.
Mattress size FAQs
Which bed size is best for a couple?
While two people can fit in a full size bed, you'll be more comfortable sharing a queen or king.
It depends on the space you have in your bedroom, and how much space you or your significant other require. For maximum space in your bedroom, a queen is perfectly suitable. Maybe even a full if you're down to cuddle. For large master bedrooms, king or CA king beds would be ideal.
What's the most popular mattress size?
As of right now, the most popular mattress size is a queen which measures 60 by 80 inches. It offers ample space for single sleepers and couples, and is more affordable than a king.
What size is a king mattress?
The dimensions of a king mattress are 76 by 80 inches (193 by 203 cm).
What size is a twin mattress?
A twin size mattress is the smallest standard size, and measures around 38 by 75 inches (96.5 by 190.5 centimeters).
Twin size beds are most commonly used for kids.
What size is a California king mattress?
A California king bed is the longest standard mattress size. Its dimensions are 72 by 84 inches (183 by 213 cm).
What is a split king mattress?
Split king beds are popular among couples with adjustable bed frames who want independent control of their side, or couples who just want their own individual bed space.
How big is a crib mattress?
North America has specific crib requirements for maximum baby safety. Those requirements state that a crib should be between 51.6 to 53 inches long, and 27.25 to 28 inches wide.
How do I buy an RV mattress?
You'll want to measure the space you have for a mattress in your RV. Sizes range from RV bunk, RV full, RV queen to RV short queen, RV king and RV CA king. Luckily, there are a lot of sizes to choose from and you can likely find a comfy fit.