Definitive Guide to Bed Sizes

various mattress sizes on display in a store

Before getting into choosing the right mattress, it is essential to know that there are many sizes when it comes to beds.

Choosing the right type of bed for your home can be a very daunting task. The choice can be overwhelming for anyone, but knowing exactly what you want can make the selection process manageable.

Size is one of the most important details that need to be considered when purchasing a bed. The ideal dimensions of the bed will depend on various factors, such as the bedroom size, your bed frame, and your sleeping style.

Mattress size, the standard dimensions of the mattress, may differ from country to country.

There is an important aspect that should be considered when selecting a bed size (or bed dimensions): the dimension of your bedroom. Can you only fit a single mattress? Or, is there space for a standard size bed? Maybe even a California king-sized bed?

It’s helpful to know how big your bedroom is before deciding to go for any particular mattress size to guarantee it will fit correctly. It will be strange if you buy a huge-sized bed that cannot fit into your bedroom or one that will make your room look overstuffed when you place it there.

With many different mattress sizes available, it’s essential to understand each size before purchasing a bed.

Bed Sizes and Dimensions

Are you a California king mattress contending with a queen-sized comforter? Are your twin XL bed sheets too short for your oversized mattress? We’ve all been there.

Bed sizes can get confusing, especially when dealing with specialty sizes like queens and kings. But don’t worry! To take the confusion out of measuring your bedding keep reading so that you can rest easy.

Generally speaking, bedding sizes refer to mattress sizes-not the size of the bed itself.

Mattress dimensions vary slightly from country to country. There is no standardization for mattress or bedding sizes worldwide.

In other words, a queen-size mattress will not measure 60 x 80 inches in Germany. Be sure to check the sizing specifications for products before purchasing them if you’re buying from an international retailer or plan on traveling with your bedding.

Bedding is tricky, especially when you start dealing with specialty sizes. Luckily, mattress dimensions are standard in the US, and manufacturers go by these standard measurements when making their products. You can use the below measurements to get a general idea of how big your bed is and what type of bedding it needs.

mattresses on display in a store

How To Measure A Mattress

If you’re shopping for a new bed, especially a mattress and box spring, it’s essential to know how to measure your mattress and box spring. This understanding of the mattress dimension will allow you to buy the right size bedding and sheets, as well as determine if the bed will fit in your bedroom or not.

Three main measurements should be taken when measuring a mattress and box spring. These three dimensions are the length, width, and depth of the entire piece (not just the sleeping surface).

Measuring your mattress may seem like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be! Read on for step-by-step instructions on how to measure your mattress and box spring.

Determining the size of your mattress will help you decide on the size of encasement or bed you need.

The first step requires measurement. Measure the length of your mattress from head to foot. Record this dimension in inches. Next, you’ll measure again! Measure the width of your mattress from side to side. Record this dimension in inches as well.

And finally, the third step is optional but very supportive. Measure the depth of your mattress from where it rests on the box spring or foundation to the top of the bed. This depth is usually between 11 and 22 inches, but record this dimension in inches if you are unsure what yours is.

Mattress Sizes Explained

Choosing the right mattress can mean the difference between a good night’s sleep and an average one. A great bed is an investment. When you buy a mattress, you’re making a long-term commitment to your comfort and sleep health.

Before shopping for a new mattress, consider what size is right for you.

alaskan king bed mattress

Alaskan King Bed

Alaskan king mattresses, also called the Alaskan king bed, are the largest standard mattress.

The Alaskan king mattress measures 108 by 108 inches, which means it is 24 inches longer than the California king, the most extended standard mattress option available on the market today. The Alaskan king bed is also wider than standard king-size beds by 32 inches (king beds are the largest standard-sized mattress).

The Alaskan king bed is the most significant bed you can purchase for your home. And, if you need a large bed that will allow you to stretch out as much as possible at night, then this could be your best option.

If you have a large family and like to co-sleep with your children, then an Alaskan king could fit everyone in one bed. These beds are extensive and lengthy, so they give everyone plenty of room to sleep comfortably without disturbing each other.

Because of its enormous size, the Alaskan king allows tall adults to stretch out without their feet hanging off the end of the bed.

But, most master bedrooms are not large enough to fit this large mattress! Even if you have a large bedroom, the Alaskan king will take up most of it! So, be prepared to make some sacrifices in the space you have available for other furniture if you choose this option.

While it is the most expensive oversized mattress, it’s also likely to last much longer than standard mattresses because of its size; you may never need another bed once you invest in an Alaskan king. Plus, couples won’t disturb each other while sleeping in an Alaskan king bed.

If you’re looking for a larger-than-life mattress that fits two to four adults comfortably without disturbing others, an Alaskan king may be right for you!

Texas King

Are you looking for a mattress fit for a king? Texas king mattresses are just the thing. But, of course, when you shop for a Texas king mattress, you’re investing in a bed that’s built for tall people.

While it’s not as wide as the Alaska or Wyoming king, the Texas king-size mattress is still an impressive 80 inches wide and 98 inches long.

Texas kings are an excellent option for tall sleepers who need a little more legroom than what a king or California king bed can offer. However, it’s essential to consider that even at 6.5 feet tall (78 inches), you would still have 20 inches of extra foot room with a Texas king bed.

california king bed with orange pillows

Wyoming King

Wyoming king-size mattress dimensions are 84 inches wide by 84 inches long. A Wyoming king is also sometimes referred to as an Emperor bed. The Wyoming king-size mattress is the smallest of the three extra-large bed sizes and is great for taller people.

Because of their unusual size, Wyoming king mattresses are hard to find. However, you’ll have a much easier time finding beds of this size in a mattress showroom than online.

A Wyoming king-size mattress has the same surface area as a standard king-size mattress, but it’s 4 inches longer and 8 inches wider than a standard king size. This extra dimension makes it excellent for tall sleepers who need more room to stretch out. It’s also a good option for couples who want more space between them when they’re sleeping.

Wyoming king mattresses are narrower than the Alaskan king, but they’re long enough to accommodate taller sleepers. The extra length makes them perfect for couples who are both 6 feet tall or taller. If you love sleeping and stretching out without feeling cramped, this is the bed for you. It’s a good choice for families with young children who like to cuddle in bed, as well as plus-sized couples.

California King Bed

If you’re looking to buy a new mattress, you might have heard the terms “California king mattress” and “king mattress” thrown around. Of course, you know that both types of mattresses are more significant than a queen or full, but do you know which one is right for your needs?

California king beds are the longest standard-sized mattresses available. They measure 72 inches wide by 84 inches long. This measurement is slightly less wide than a standard king-size bed but adds four inches to the length. As such, California king beds are ideal for tall sleepers who feel like they do not have enough size in a standard king bed.

The California king is four inches narrower than the standard king. So, while a California king can accommodate two sleepers comfortably, it’s better suited to couples who don’t require as much space as its standard counterpart. Plus, if you have children or pets who like to join you in bed, you’ll all have more room to stretch out.

If you and your partner are over 6 feet tall, a California king-size mattress should fit the bill. But if you’re both shorter than 6 feet, try out a standard king mattress size instead. This standard is the same length as a California king but 4 inches wider.

king size bed with wooden headboard

King Bed

King mattresses are a popular choice for couples and those who sleep with their children or pets. If you’re looking for a king-size bed, here’s what you need to know. The dimensions of a king-size mattress are 76 inches by 80 inches.

A king-size mattress is perfect for couples and families. It allows both people to spread out, so if one person tosses and turns while sleeping, they won’t wake the other person up. It also gives each person more than enough space to sleep comfortably.

King mattresses can be difficult to move because of their size, so you’ll want to make sure it fits in your bedroom before purchasing them. One downside is that these mattresses don’t come cheap because of their size and the number of materials needed to make them, so they may not be the best option if you’re on a budget.

Queen Bed

Queen-size mattresses are 60 inches wide by 80 inches long, making them ideal for couples who want maximum personal space while sleeping and fit a queen-size bed into a smaller bedroom (versus a king). Queen beds are also great for single sleepers with more oversized bedrooms because of their additional length than full-size models (5 inches). The popularity of queen beds has made them standard in hotel rooms across the country.

Olympic Queen

Olympic Queen mattress size is not very popular in the USA. Although it’s only 6 inches wider than the Queen, it’s not listed among the standard sizes. And, that extra space might be just enough to make your life easier.

You might find an Olympic Queen mattress online or in a local store if you’re lucky, but these mattresses are usually custom orders.

queen size bed with upholstered bed frame

Full Bed

Full-size bedding is 54 inches wide by 75 inches long. Full mattresses were standard for couples pre-1960s when they gave way to queen-size models. Full-size bedding is excellent for single sleepers who want maximum personal space while sleeping and have smaller bedrooms.

Double Bed

A double is another name for a full-size bed. Just like a full-size bed, it measures 54 inches by 75 inches, making it suitable for single adults who like to have more room to move around in bed.

Twin XL Bed

An extra-long twin sometimes called a “twin XL mattress,” measures 38 inches wide by 80 inches long; this size is commonly found in college dorm rooms because it is similar to the dimensions of a twin but offers an additional 5 inches in length. The twin XL can be an excellent option for taller teens or adults that require longer mattresses.

Twin Bed

A twin-size bed is probably the most common size you’ll encounter in the U.S., especially for kids. A twin-size mattress (also called a single sleeper) and its bedding are approximately 39 inches wide by 75 inches in length, give or take a few inches, depending on the manufacturer. Twin size is often called single, and twin XL beds are typically found in college dorm rooms. They are also used in a bunk bed.

twin size bed with white sheets

Choosing The Right MattressSize

If you’re shopping for a new mattress, you’ve probably noticed that they come in a variety of different sizes. Each size has its advantages and disadvantages, so it’s essential to choose carefully. Here’s what you need to know about the most popular mattress sizes so that you can decide which one is right for you.

While twin and full beds are popular among children and adolescents, most adults prefer queen-size mattresses – they’re roomy enough to accommodate two adults but not so big that they take up too much space in the bedroom.

Twin and Twin XL bedding are the same widths, but the twin is shorter in length. These beds are the best size for kids’ rooms, guest rooms, or smaller bedrooms. Twin mattresses measure 39 inches wide by 75 inches long. Twin XL mattresses are 5 inches longer, at 80 inches long, making them better suited for taller sleepers as well as college dorms.

Full-size mattresses are 15 inches wider than twin mattresses. They’re also known as double beds and are best for single sleepers who want more space to move around at night or couples who have a child who shares the bed with them. A full-size mattress measures 54 inches wide by 75 inches long.

Queen-size mattresses are the most popular mattress size in the U.S., and it’s perfect for couples who want more room to stretch out at night or single sleepers who like extra space for pets or children that share the bed with them. King-size mattresses are 16 inches wider and 4 inches longer than queen-size mattresses.

Next, you should know what type of base you’ll be using for your mattress. Is it an adjustable bed? Understanding this will determine the type of mattress as well.

Is There a Mattress Smaller Than A Twin?

If you’re looking for a mattress that’s smaller than a twin, you’re out of luck: it’s the smallest size available on the market today.

It measures 39″ by 75″, making it an excellent option for single sleepers, children, and small adults.

If you’re a taller adult or teenager looking for more length than a standard twin mattress provides, consider a twin XL. A Twin XL is 80″ long, just 5″ longer than a standard twin.

However, a twin mattress is only suitable for one person, so if you’re sharing your space with someone else, consider moving up to a full-size bed. A queen size is also a popular option for couples who want more sleeping space than a full but don’t have room for a king.

Thanks to the proliferation of tiny homes, apartments, and dorms in many urban areas, there’s been a recent rise in single-person households. There are options available for those who need a mattress that fits into a smaller space (like a crib mattress).

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