Common Mattress Sizes

Twin

• The twin or single mattress is the smallest size with the exception of crib and toddler bed mattresses. With measurements typically 39-by-75 inches, this bed works best for kids or singles. It is often found in college dorms because of the smaller size, allowing it to take up less space in the room. If you want extra length, go with an extra-long twin mattress, which gives you an additional 5 inches in length. You'll need special sheets for the extra-long twin.

Full

• A full mattress, also known as a double, adds several inches to the width of the mattress for more room than the twin. Its dimensions are 54-by-75 inches with the extra-long full mattress at 80 inches in length. Two people can fit on a full mattress, particularly if they are smaller. Two larger adults may find a full bed uncomfortable and lacking space for moving around or stretching out. A full mattress gives a child or teen more space than a twin without taking up all of the space in the bedroom.

Queen

• The queen mattress expands the width and standard length of the full mattress, with standard dimensions of 60-by-80 inches. Larger or taller individuals often feel more comfortable on a queen. This size of mattress will fit into most homes--even older homes with smaller hallways and doors--but you should take measurements of your home to make sure it will fit. One variation of this size is the Olympic queen, with dimensions of 66-by-80 inches. If you want more length on your queen mattress, go with the California queen, which sticks with the standard 60-inch width but expands to 84 inches long, making it ideal for tall people.

King

• The king is the largest mattress size, with two variations for slight size differences. The size of the king makes it difficult to fit into some homes, so check measurements before purchasing to make sure the mattress can make it into the bedroom. The standard measurement is 76-by-80 inches. The California king actually decreases in width at 72 inches but extends the length to 84 inches. The super king or grand king is the largest option at 80-by-98 inches.