How to Select Mattress Size

Twin Mattress Size

Also known as a “single bed”, the Twin mattress is the smallest mattress size which will be the most economic option and works well in smaller spaces. Due to the smaller size however, it may be too short for some adults, especially men. We recommend a max height of 5’5” for individuals to sleep on a Twin size bed.

Twin Mattress Dimensions: 39” x 74”

Twin XL Mattress Size

A twin XL is the same width as the Twin size mattress but offers an increased length for taller teens and adults. It is also an economic option and good space saver, making it a popular choice in college dormitories. It is becoming increasingly popular for couples to purchase two Twin XL beds to push together instead of a King size. This enables each person to select a bed with their own personal comfort and can also enable the couple to use separate adjustable foundations. This arrangement also offers a flexible option for guestrooms as it can sleep two individuals when separated or a couple when pushed together. Bedding is more difficult to locate for the Twin XL option however because it is not as common.

Twin XL Mattress Dimensions: 39” x 80”

Full Mattress Size

Also known as a “double bed”, the Full size is 15 inches wider than a twin at 54 inches wide. We do not recommend a Full size for couples as this only provides 27 inches of personal space for each person which is less than the width of a Twin. A Full is also the same length as a Twin so it may not work for taller teens and adults. Full size beds are increasing in popularity among parents for teenage bedrooms since they offer more space for comfortable sleep. The extra space may be helpful for younger children and their parents when reading together before bed.

Full Mattress Dimensions: 54” x 74”

Queen Mattress Size

A Queen size bed is 6 inches wider and 5 inches longer than a full size mattress. These added inches make the Queen bed the most popular mattress size choice. It provides more space for individuals who have a wide sleeping position, an increased height allowance, and adequate space recommended for couples. This wide range of advantages makes the Queen size a good choice for guestrooms, smaller master bedrooms, couples who prefer close quarters, or seek a more budget friendly alternative to the King size bed. However, when shared by two people, each person has 9 inches less width than if they slept alone in a Twin bed.

Queen Mattress Dimensions: 60” x 80”

King Mattress Size

The King size mattress is about 18 inches wider than a Queen, providing the most personal space for couples with only one inch less than an individual would have on a Twin bed. For this reason, a King size mattress is a good option for couples who want maximum personal sleeping space, especially if they have children or pets who like to pop into bed with them from time to time. However, the size of a King is something to consider as it may be too big for some bedrooms or too bulky to navigate through some corridors, doors, and stairwells. We recommend measuring the space and pathways leading to the space to ensure that it can accommodate the size of a king prior to purchase.

King Mattress Dimensions: 76” x 80”

California King Size Mattress

The California King bed is 4 inches narrower and 4 inches longer than a regular king, making it a must have option for individuals who are exceptionally tall. Bedding is not as easy to find for a California King compared to the more common sizes.

California King Mattress Dimensions: 72” x 84”

Pros & Cons for Common Mattress Sizes Based on Sleep Needs

Couples

Queen: Saves space in smaller bedrooms, most economic option.

King: Provides additional sleeping space, added length for taller people, meets the minimum width requirement for “His side, Her side” custom comfort which enables the couple to have their own unique comfort feel on their side of the bed.

California King: Most expensive option but is a must for extra tall people who need the added length but bedding may be more difficult to find.

Youth / Kids

Twin: Most economic choice for budget and space.

Full: Enables more personal space for sleep comfort and tuck-in time visits from the parents.

Queen: Enables more room for taller teens and personal space for “sprawlers.”

Single Adult

Twin: Most economic option and saves space in tighter rooms; may not work for taller people.

Twin XL: Conserves room space but provides extra length for taller people.

Queen: Longer length, provides more room for personal comfort and potential to sleep and additional adult, but is a more expensive option.

Guest Room

Twin: Cheapest option & saves space but might not be long enough for every guest and can only sleep one person.

Two Twin XL: The increased length enables a wider range of guests to sleep comfortably, the two beds can be operated to sleep two individuals or pushed together to sleep a couple; bedding may be more difficult to find.

Full: Enables more personal space for sleep comfort but may not be long enough for every guest; can only sleep one adult.

Queen: Long enough for most people and provides enough room for a couple.

Mattress Size Checklist

Mattress Dimensions & Room Size: Smaller rooms may inhibit a larger mattress size.

Budget: Smaller mattress sizes will be more inexpensive.

The purpose of the mattress: For example, a guestroom mattress is not used as frequently as a personal mattress and should be comfortable for a wide range of sleep preferences.

Sleep preferences: For example, a Queen size bed may be more suitable than a twin for an individual who likes to sleep in a starfish position.

Height: Make sure the mattress dimensions are long enough to support the height of the resting body.

Texas Mattress Makers

We are excited to share the Texas Mattress Makers experience and expertise with you through our website. If you have any questions about a mattress or its components, our experts are happy to help whether you buy from us or not. Call us at (713) 341-6252 – we’re open 7 days a week in East Downtown Houston and Katy! Or, you can email us at tmm@texasmattressmakers.com and we will be happy to answer any questions you have!

We are happy to help you as you explore your mattress options and provide the answers you want to know about sleep! Take our Mattress Quiz today to get a mattress recommendation by one of our experts!