This one’s too big, and that one’s too small. How to find the mattress that’s just right.
As time passes and our lives change, so do sleep needs and habits. Finding a new mattress among the many different sizes is not always an easy process. Although mattress size is ultimately an individual preference, determining your sleep needs and understanding bed size dimensions will help lead you to the right choice.
There are some factors to consider when you begin to assess what mattress size you might need:
- Do you sleep with a spouse or partner?
- How large is the bedroom?
- How tall is the person that needs the mattress?
- Do pets or children share the bed?
When preparing your toolkit to shop for the right sized mattress, there is some research you might want to do beforehand. To be fully prepared, know the size of the mattress that you want to replace, the dimensions of the bedroom the mattress will go in, and any anticipated lifestyle changes. Having this knowledge as you begin your search will facilitate an easier buying process.
All set? We’ve summarized everything you need to know about sizing so you can feel confident you made the right choice for you and/or your family.
Crib 28" x 52"
The standard size of all crib mattress, this is the number you should feel confident will match all standard crib sizes. Don’t be surprised if you find these mattresses firmer than adult beds, they are manufactured that way for safety reasons. The timing for each child is different, but typically children will grow out of the crib at some point in the toddler-age range. A crib mattress can be innerspring or foam. Some other qualities might be easy-to-clean and portability to keep up with all of the changes of childhood.
Twin 38" x 75"
The smallest of the adult mattresses, the twin is a great choice for children transitioning from a crib or toddler bed, to an adult mattress. The slim size of a twin makes it great for stacking as bunk beds, or or fitting them side-by-side in a shared bedroom. For smaller homes or apartments, or even guest bedrooms, the twin is a great size that will still leave you (hopefully) with some open floor space.
Twin XL 38" x 80"
The twin XL has the same width of of a standard twin bed but with the added 5-6 inches of length. If you’re hoping to outfit your college student, Twin XL’s are the standard dormitory-sized bed. The added length gives a bit more room to a single-sleeping adult. If hoping to extend the life of a mattress by having a bed transition from toddlerhood to the teenage years, choosing a twin XL from might save you money while ensuring your growing child will have all the space they might need. These mattresses are not only economical, but also maneuverable, and are easy to move from the bedroom, to the dorm room, or even to an apartment if circumstances allow. Two Twin XL mattresses are also the standard split king mattress size.
An important note:
Not all sheet sets and comforters come in twin XL. Many bedding supply stores do carry the size nowadays, but it is something to keep in mind
Full 54" x 75"
A full-size mattress may also be referred to as a “standard double mattress.” A full-sized mattress is a great compromise between a twin and a queen size mattress. It’s great for a single sleeping adult who wants more room to sprawl, or for a couple with a smaller bedroom. The additional space is loved by growing teens, and is an economical and popular option for young adults as they transition into their first, and typically smaller, apartments. For parents that choose a full size mattress for their child, it is a great mattress to utilize for a guest bedroom when grown children eventually move out. The mattress is shorter than a queen or king, so it is good for a sleeper or couple who does not require a lot of legroom. A couple sleeping in a full-size mattress with children or pets is possible, but it may be a tight squeeze.
An important note:
For a single sleeper, that is 54” of sleep space (14” extra compared to a Twin or Twin XL) -If a sleeper is 6’ tall, there is only 3” of additional space when the sleeper is fully extended -For a couple, that is 27” of sleep space per person (about 11” less than a Twin or Twin XL)
Full XL 54" x 80"
A full xl mattress is becoming ever more popular with individuals looking for more length in their bed. At this length, this mattress size can easily accommodate people who are up to six feet six inches tall. Although the regular Full size remains the most popular choice. Finding sheets for this size of bed is becoming much easier than it once was.
Queen 60" x 80"
The most popular mattress size in the country, the queen is provides a comfortable sleep experience for a wide range of people. Whether a single sleeper or a couple, a Queen mattress size is one that won’t be outgrown. A Queen can give some more room for those that share a bed with children or pets, as well. Most bedrooms can easily accommodate a queen size mattress, but to be safe it’s recommended that your bedroom measures at least 10’ x 10.’ Because of its popularity and size, purchasing bedroom accessories and bedding is a bit more economical than those for a king bed.
For a single sleeper, that is almost double the amount of sleeping space compared to a Twin/TwinXL -A 6’ tall sleeper would have 8” extra sleep space if fully extended on a Queen -For couples, that is 30” of sleep space per person (8” less than a Twin size mattress) Some specs to consider: For single sleepers, that is 60” of sleeping space. For partners, that is 30” of sleeping space per person (8” less than a Twin size mattress). A 6’ tall sleeper would have 8” of extra space if fully extended on this mattress.
Olympic Queen 66" x 80"
An Olympic queen size mattress measures 66 by 80 inches. You get six extra inches if you choose an Olympic queen mattress over a standard queen size. That’s three inches each if you’re sharing your bed with a partner, or you can keep all of the extra space for yourself.
It’s recommended that you have at least 10 x 10 x 14 feet if you want to fit an Olympic queen into a room. If you don’t have enough space for a king, it can offer a great alternative. However, keep in mind that it’s not a standard size, which can make it more difficult to find the right bed frame and the right bedding, or even the right mattress.
King 76" x 80"
A King size mattress provides generous extra space for a single sleeper or partners. If your feet have ever hung off the end of a mattress, a California King is the only mattress that will give you that extra length you’re looking for. For those that share a bed with children or pets, this extra sleep space will provide a more comfortable sleep. Check to be safe that your room dimensions are at least 12’ x 12’ to ensure that a King mattress will fit. For those that have the budget and bedroom space, we would recommend this size over a Queen for couples, especially those sleeping with children and pets. A King size mattress is equivalent to two Twin XL’s pushed together. For partners looking for an adjustable base, or with very different sleep preferences and habits, split king mattresses allow you to customize your ideal sleep surface.
An important note:
For a single sleeper, that is 54” of sleep space (14” extra compared to a Twin or Twin XL) -If a sleeper is 6’ tall, there is only 3” of additional space when the sleeper is fully extended -For a couple, that is 27” of sleep space per person (about 11” less than a Twin or Twin XL)
California King 72" x 84"
4 inches longer but 4 inches narrower than a standard king type. Good for taller individuals. A California King mattress is ideal for taller individuals or those that want a mattress with extra length. It is 4” longer than a standard King mattress, but it is also 4” narrower. Even though a few inches narrow than a standard King, it is still generous in sleep space for single sleepers, couples, and couples who sleep with children or pets. The bedroom dimensions for a California King are the same as a standard King–12’ x 12.’ An important note: -For couples, there is 2” less of sleep space per person compared to a Twin size -A 6’ tall sleeper has an entire 1 foot of extra sleep space when fully extended on a California King Still not sure which mattress size will be the right one for you? Find a mattress that has a generous sleep trial so that you can actually see how well it fits in the bedroom. By having multiple nights to sleep on the mattress, you can get a better feel if the mattress size is provides you will sufficient sleep space. But a word from the wise: we’ve never heard someone complain that their mattress is too big!
Wyoming King 84" x 84"
4 inches longer but 4 inches narrower than a standard king type. Good for taller individuals. A California King mattress is ideal for taller individuals or those that want a mattress with extra length. It is 4” longer than a standard King mattress, but it is also 4” narrower. Even though a few inches narrow than a standard King, it is still generous in sleep space for single sleepers, couples, and couples who sleep with children or pets. The bedroom dimensions for a California King are the same as a standard King–12’ x 12.’ An important note: -For couples, there is 2” less of sleep space per person compared to a Twin size -A 6’ tall sleeper has an entire 1 foot of extra sleep space when fully extended on a California King Still not sure which mattress size will be the right one for you? Find a mattress that has a generous sleep trial so that you can actually see how well it fits in the bedroom. By having multiple nights to sleep on the mattress, you can get a better feel if the mattress size is provides you will sufficient sleep space. But a word from the wise: we’ve never heard someone complain that their mattress is too big!
Texas King 80" x 98"
Everything’s bigger in Texas, and this mattress matches that claim by measuring in at 80” by 98”. The Texas King is like the California King of oversized beds. It’s actually narrower than a Wyoming, but it tacks on an additional 14” at the foot end to make this bed an XXL, if you will.
A Texas King still proves to be roomy for many sleepers, but taller individuals may find this model exceptionally accommodating. For those that think a California King is still too narrow, or even too short, the Texas King prevents any dangling feet.
Or, if you co-sleep with pets that lay typically at the foot of the bed, a Texas King may give you the extra room you’re looking for.
Vermont King 96" x 96"
The Vermont King Bed can only be found at Natural Form®. Based on customer requests, we created the Vermont King to serve as the sweet spot of oversized mattresses. It provides more luxurious space than the Wyoming king, the length of a Texas king, but isn’t as hard to fit in a room as an Alaskan King.
The Vermont King measures “96 x 96,” serving as the happy-medium of ginormous mattresses. This bed can comfortably sleep additional pets, one-two children or three-four adults. For just the two of you, the extra 18” of space that a standard King lacks can make all the difference if your partner tends to disturb your slumber with snoring, late-night Netflix bingeing, or a differing sleep schedule.
Alaskan King 108" x 108"
If you’re looking for the biggest and best, the Alaskan King is the ultimate mega of the megabeds. The largest out there, this 108” by 108” deluxe mattress is sprawl city. An Alaskan King is essentially two standard full sized beds put together, with an additional 2 and a half feet on the foot end.
An Alaskan King comfortably sleeps large families co-sleeping with multiple children (and even some stuffed animals). Taller individuals may find this the most comfortable given it’s extra length and roomy width. And for a couple, this bed is ultra luxurious in terms of spaciousness.
The extensive surface of the Alaskan King limits motion transfer and minimizes sleep disturbances, no matter your sleep scenario. But it’s important to note, we recommend your bedroom be at least 15’ x 15’ to fit this gigantic mattress in the bedroom.
