How to Measure Mattresses

Mattresses come in all different shapes, sizes and levels of comfort. Selecting a mattress can be an overwhelming task with all of the things you have to consider before purchase. When selecting a mattress, the first thing to decide is what size you would like to buy. There are six common sizes available. If you simply want to replace your current version, but you don't quite know what size of mattress you have, find out easily by taking a few measurements.

Ruler or tape measure

Instructions

- 1
  Remove all sheets, blankets, comforters and mattress pads from the mattress. A mattress must be measured bare.
- 2
  Measure the width of the mattress by laying the ruler or tape measure flat on the mattress from the left seam to the right seam.
- 3
  Measure the length of the mattress by laying the ruler or tape measure flat from the top (toward the head of the bed) to the bottom of the mattress (toward the foot).
- 4
  Measure the depth of the mattress by laying the ruler or tape measure flat against the side of the mattress. This is only a necessary step when determining what sheets and bedding to purchase.
- 5
  Use the width and height calculations you have just determined to find the size mattress you have.
  
  A California king-sized mattress has a 72" (183 cm) width and a 84" (214 cm) length.
  
  A regular king-sized mattress has a 78" (198 cm) width and a 80" (203 cm) length.
  
  A queen-sized mattress has a 60" (152 cm) width and a 80" (203 cm) length.
  
  A full- or double-sized mattress has a 54" (137 cm) width and a 75" (191 cm) length.
  
  A long twin-sized mattress has a 39" (99 cm) width and a 80" (203 cm) length.
  
  A regular twin-sized mattress has a 39" (99 cm) width and a 75" (191 cm) length.

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