Bed Size Options

Twin Size

• The standard size of a twin bed is 39 inches wide and 79 inches long. However, retailers also offer an "extra long" twin bed that is 39 inches wide and 80 inches long. Consumers tend to shy away from this option because it can be difficult to find bed linens for the 80-inch length. They may also offer a "narrow" bunk bed variation that is 36 inches wide, versus the standard twin size of 39 inches in width. Twin size beds are usually purchased for children.

Full Size

• Full size beds accommodate one adult or two small-bodied adults. They are 54 inches wide and 75 inches long. Full beds are also referred to as "double beds." It's worth noting that two adults sleeping in a full size bed only get 27 inches each. Another consideration is the 75-inch length, which might be a tad short, especially for men. Seventy-five inches equates to only 6 1/4 feet. Full size beds are probably a better choice for teens, versus adults.

Queen Size

• Queen size beds offer two adults sleeping together a bit more room. The standard queen size bed is 60 inches wide and 80 inches long. Queen beds are the most popular bed size in the U.S. However, when you really size things up, it's interesting to note that an adult sleeping alone in a twin bed will gain 9 inches in sleeping width in comparison to a queen bed, since twin beds are 39 inches wide. Queens are often the bed of choice for single people and to furnish a guest bedroom. Options in the queen category include the "California Queen," and the "Expanded" or "Super" Queen." The California Queen is 60 inches wide and 84 inches long, giving sleepers 4 more inches in width. Expanded or Super (names are used interchangeably) queen beds are 66 inches wide (6 inches wider than standard) and 80 inches long.

King Size

• King size beds are the very largest size bed in the United States, as far as standard sizes in retail stores. There are three categories of king size beds: king (standard), California King, and the Grand King. The standard king bed size is 76 inches wide and 80 inches long. A California King is a bit narrower than the standard king, at 74 inches in width and 80 inches in length. The biggest bed of all is the Grand King. These beds are a 80 inches wide (which is more than 6 1/2 feet), and the Grand King is 98 inches long. At 74 to 76 inches wide, the king bed offers couples just about as much "personal space" sleeping together as they'd have sleeping apart in a twin bed. A bed that is any wider or longer has to be custom-made.