Body shape, room size, budget, and sleeping partner are some of the factors influencing the right-size mattress. We spend an enormous amount of time in bed, at least one-third of our typical day. A high-quality mattress personalized to our needs is among our most important investments. There are many considerations when picking a mattress for your lifestyle, and size is among the most important.
Different Mattress Sizes
In terms of mattresses, one size does NOT fit all. To begin weighing the options, it is essential to understand how much space each bed will utilize thoroughly.
Twin Mattress

The smallest mattress option, the twin, is only 38.5” wide and 74.5” long. It is typically too short for most full-grown adults but ideal for children and some teenagers. A twin bed is the cheapest mattress size available. Twin bedding is typically cheaper than larger bedding as well. Twin beds can cost anywhere from $200 to over $2000, depending on the mattress material. Twin beds are best suited for smaller bedrooms or spaces with extra furniture.
Twin XL Mattress

Twin XL mattresses are perfect for adults and some teens who need a slimmer bed but are too tall for a standard twin. They are still 38.5” wide but offer an extra 5” in length, making them roughly 79.5” long. Twin XL mattresses are common in smaller spaces like college dorm rooms. They are typically on the cheaper side, only costing $200 to $500. High-quality mattresses like the
Purple Luxe Rejuvenate Firm can cost significantly more because of their materials and unique technology.
Full Mattress

Full mattresses are popular options for single adults, as they are a bit wider and longer than a twin but still small enough to fit in a smaller room space. Full-sized mattresses are 53.5” wide and 74.5” long. There are also full XL mattresses that are 6” longer, reaching 80”. Full XL beds are not as common, though, and it is typically harder to find bedding for them.
Queen Mattress

The queen mattress is the most popular of all bed options. They are 59.5” wide and 79.5” long, ideal for both couples and single adults, especially those who spread out or sleep with pets. Queen mattresses are priced anywhere from $300 to over $6000, depending on the manufacturer and materials. A high-quality mattress, like the
Tempur-Pedic Luxe Breeze Hybrid Medium, can be on the higher end of the price range if unique technology and innovative comfort systems are used to make the mattress.
King Mattress

A king mattress is the same length as a queen but significantly wider. It measures about 75.5” wide and 79.5” long. This is a popular choice for couples, especially those with larger bodies, that need a lot of space while sleeping or sleeping with children or pets. King mattresses are suited for larger bedroom spaces and may be tougher to maneuver through door frames, hallways, elevators, and other areas of a home. They are also pricier than other mattress options, starting at about $500, and can reach more than $6000 (or much higher).
California King Mattress

The California king is a touch slimmer than a standard king but adds about 4” in length. It is about 71.5” wide and 83.5” long, ideal for those with longer bodies. California kings fit more oversized bedrooms, and it may be harder to find appropriate bedding. California kings are typically in the same price range of a standard king mattress.
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What to Consider When Choosing a Mattress Size
The best tactic when
buying a mattress is choosing one that best suits your needs. There are many considerations, like sleeping positions, age, pain points, budgets, and other lifestyle elements. When focusing on the size, though, the determining factors are narrowed down to height, room dimensions, and bed use.
Height
A sleeper’s height is often the most important consideration when choosing a mattress size.
Aim to buy a mattress that is roughly 6” longer than the tallest person to accommodate for pillow space.
Partners need enough room to shift sleeping positions and extend their elbows and knees without disturbing the other sleeper. Follow this guide when considering the height of the user(s):
- Twin: Shorter than 5’9”
- Twin XL: Shorter than 6’2”
- Full: Shorter than 5’9”
- Queen: Shorter than 6’2”
- King: Shorter than 6’2”
- Cal King: Shorter than 6’6”
Room Size
A mattress must fit in a bedroom, ideally leaving roughly 3’ of space between the bed and the wall to walk around comfortably. Consider dimensions and other furniture that may be in a room, like dressers, side tables, desks, and mirrors. Be sure to factor in the size of a bed frame as well, and test whether a dresser or armoire can open its doors without hitting the bed. Follow this chart when determining what bed is appropriate for various room sizes:
- Twin: 7’ by 10’ bedroom
- Twin XL: 8’ by 10’ bedroom
- Full: 9’ by 9.6’ bedroom
- Queen: 10’ by 14’ bedroom
- King: 13’ by 19’ bedroom
- Cal King: 13’ to 19’ bedroom
Bed Use

People often sleep with partners, children, or pets. This is important to consider before buying a mattress. Full-size beds are typically suitable for a single person, offering a little more space than a twin while still cheaper and more adaptable than a queen. Those who sleep with partners typically buy a queen, as it offers space for each sleeper to lie comfortably without taking up too much space in a bedroom. Plus, it is usually easiest to find bedding for queen beds. A king-size bed is great for partners who are taller or who often lie next to pets or children. King-size beds are also ideal for sleepers who move often or just need extra space. Be sure to consider the room size before choosing a king-size bed.
Testing Different Mattress Sizes
After determining important factors like bed use, room size, and sleeper height, try a few out in person! All Mattress World Northwest
locations showcase beds of all sizes and wide price ranges. We welcome shoppers to test them in-store. Our professional team will also use your personal information to help decide which size is right for you. Find a store near you, and visit us today!