Standard mattress sizes and dimensions

Queen California King

It can be quite daunting to navigate the variety within the mattress market. However, this article will help simplify the numbers and names that confuse many consumers looking to improve their sleep by buying a new mattress.

To understand mattress sizes, you have to start with their dimensions. Dimension is otherwise known as the width and length of the mattress. While mattress sizes are standardized by dimension in the industry, potential buyers should be mindful that the thickness of mattresses of the same size can vary between manufacturers. The table below compiles the six standardized mattress sizes and their corresponding dimensions.

Mattress Size Chart

Mattress Size Dimensions (Width x Length)
California King 72” x 84”
King 76” x 80”
Queen 60” x 80”
Full 54” x 75”
Twin XL 38” x 80”
Twin 38” x 75”

Considerations for mattress size

If you’re trying to learn more about mattress sizing, chances are you have some specific lifestyle considerations you want to keep in mind. This article will walk you through the different components of your home and habits that can contribute to or prevent a good night’s sleep. If you’re going to invest in a mattress, you want it to be the right one!

Before investing in a mattress, consider each of these points and any additional ones specific to your lifestyle and preferences.

  • Dimensions of your bedroom: People have different preferences regarding how they like their bed to fit inside their rooms, so people often make a personal choice. These preferences are often shaped by how much furniture is in the room. It’s always a good idea to visualize samples of the above measurements in your room using indicators like tape to get an idea of what your new bed will look like and how much extra space you want to surround it. Your mileage may vary depending on room size and preferences, but a good rule is to have at least 18 inches of space around your bed.
  • Height and sleeping position: Considering your height and your sleeping partners’ height seems obvious, but your preferred sleeping position can also factor into choosing the appropriate mattress size. For example, side sleepers are less likely than back or stomach sleepers to need the entire mattress length. If you are under 6 feet tall, your feet will probably not stick over the edge of the bed if you’re sleeping on a queen or king mattress. Taller people may want a bed 80 inches in length or more. Only one standard mattress size is over 80 inches, which is the California king, at 84 inches.
  • Sleeping partners: The number of people (or animals!) in a bed is a significant factor in determining which mattress size will be most comfortable. If you share a bed with a significant other, a queen size bed is ideal. If you belong to a family that bedshares with children, you will probably want to size up to a king or California king—selecting a bed size that maximizes comfort for all involved.
  • Bed transportation and location of bedroom: Among these theoretical reflections is an important practical consideration – the location of your bedroom in your house or apartment and the feasibility of transport. If you’re trying to move a California king mattress to the top floor of your home, you may encounter some challenges. While the bed-in-a-box approach to mattress sales can be a saving grace in this scenario, moving and transporting your mattress is still something to consider.
  • Budget, cost, and value: Once you’ve decided on the mattress size that best fits your lifestyle and home needs, you need to be mindful of your budget and the varying price ranges for mattresses on the market. You should be aware that the mattress size can significantly increase the cost of the mattress and bedding accessories like sheets and bed frames. While an expensive mattress should be of high quality, you can still find budget-friendlier options without jeopardizing quality.
  • Longevity: As previously mentioned, a mattress is a significant investment. Ideally, your mattress will suit your and your family’s needs for years. Think about changes to your life and the needs of a partner, children, or pets, in terms of sleeping arrangements.

FAQ Frequently Asked Questions about mattress sizes.

What about crib-sized mattresses?

The standard size for crib mattresses is 27 and ¼ inches wide by 51 and ¼ inches long. Crib mattresses face different regulations and are designed for infant health and safety. The maximum thickness for a crib mattress is six inches. Despite the standard size, you will likely be able to find a mattress that fits your particular crib if the dimensions are different.

What are typical mattress sizes?

The answer to this question depends on the demographic you’re asking about. For example, children will likely sleep in a twin or twin XL. They can continue to sleep on the same size mattress until adulthood. However, once people live alone or move in with partners, they will probably seek a full-size bed for extra space. They may also seek a queen-size mattress to accommodate an additional sleeping partner. Queen and king-sized beds are most popular for couples, but families may want to size up even further if they bed-share with children or pets. If you have atypical preferences, you can even order custom mattress sizes!

What’s the difference between a twin and a single-sized mattress?

A single-sized mattress is slightly smaller than a twin in length.

What’s the difference between a full-size and a double mattress?

These two are the same size!

Are there larger mattress sizes than the California king?

The Alaskan king, Texas king, and Wyoming king are all much larger than the California king, which makes them unpopular options among general mattress consumers. Despite their unpopularity, it’s nice to know they exist should you ever need them.

What is the best size of mattress for couples?

A full-size mattress can be acceptable depending on people’s sleeping habits and preferences. If you or your partner like to have lots of room to move around or are physically large, it might be best to size up to a queen, king, or California king.

Conclusion

Sleep is foundational for your health, and good sleep begins with the right mattress. The ideal bed can boost your mental health by cultivating your interior design skills in the bedroom or providing a cozy place to rest and relax during downtime. We are here to help you craft the best sleeping experience for you and navigate the, at times, daunting mattress market.