The Measurements of Mattresses

Do you remember the joyous day when you got your first "big kid" bed? What about the luxury you felt when you moved from a Twin-sized bed to a Queen? Have you always dreamt of a sumptuous California King? For the convenience of customers everywhere, bed and mattress manufacturers have committed to several standard dimensions when it comes to mattress sizes. Ranging from crib mattresses to mattresses fit for a king, there's a mattress size for everyone. Scroll down to learn a little more about the measurements of mattresses.

The Measurements of Mattresses

Let's start with the basics. According to the Better Sleep Council, there are seven standard sizes for American mattresses:

• Crib: 27" x 52"
• Twin: 38" x 75"
• Twin XL: 38" x 80"
• Full: 53" x 75"
• Queen: 60" x 80"
• King: 76" x 80"
• California King: 72" x 84"

As you can see, the sizes don't progress at even increments; some sizes are more similar than others. The Twin XL, for example, is the same width as the Twin but adds five inches to the length. And the California King knocks four inches off the width of the King but adds those inches to the length.

In addition, it's important to remember that these sizes are approximate. Some Full mattresses are 54 inches in width instead of 53 inches. Some Twin mattresses are 39 inches in length instead of 38 inches. However, mattresses generally don't vary from these dimensions by more than an inch.

Now that you know the measurements of mattresses, let's take a look at each option.

The Crib Mattress

Crib mattresses are only used for babies and toddlers. They're designed to be slightly smaller than standard crib dimensions.

The Twin Mattress

Ideal for single sleepers, Twin mattresses are a common choice for children who have outgrown their cribs. However, they also work well for adults who live in smaller spaces, including dorm rooms and studio apartments. Sometimes Twin mattresses are used in guest rooms as well, on either a standard bed frame or a daybed (which can be used as a couch or a bed as needed).

The Twin XL Mattress

Has your teenager sprouted up so much that his feet hang off the edge of the bed? You might wish to purchase a Twin XL, which is a bit longer than a standard Twin. It's commonly used by tall teenagers and adults living in small spaces. In fact, it's the most popular mattress size for dorm rooms.

The Full Mattress

Sometimes called a "Double," a Full mattress works well for young adults and couples who like to sleep close to one another. Many people use a Full mattress during the transition from childhood to adulthood, and more and more parents are using them for young children. Not only do they offer more space (perfect for parents who read to their children before bed), but also they ensure that the child won't quickly outgrow the bed. Full mattresses are commonly found in guest rooms as well.

The Queen Mattress

Did you know that the Queen is the most popular mattress size on the market? It's an ideal fit for many couples, providing just enough space for two sleepers while remaining cost-effective and space-efficient. However, it's also used by many single adults who want a little extra space or who share their bed with a pet.

The King Mattress

Couples who sometimes share their bed with children or larger pets typically prefer a King-sized mattress. It's also a great option for couples who want some extra sleeping space, perhaps because one partner is a very active sleeper or a very light sleeper. With a King, you have space to move around at night without disturbing your partner. However, due to its larger footprint, the King does require a more spacious bedroom.

The California King Mattress

The longest mattress on the market, the California King is ideal for taller individuals (especially those that stand above 6'2"). If you're tired of your feet hanging off the end of the bed or you enjoy letting your dogs sleep near your feet, you might want to invest in a California King.

What Size Mattress Do You Need?

When deciding between the measurements of mattresses, take into account your personal preferences, the size of the room, and who you'll be sharing the mattress with (including any kids or pets). If you're having trouble deciding between these options, discuss the pros and cons with a mattress expert. Speaking of which . . .

Are you looking for a new mattress? Visit Beautyrest Sleep Gallery. At our locations in Springfield and Branson, Missouri, we provide an extensive selection of top-quality mattresses, including Beautyrest®, Serta iComfort®, Tempur-Pedic®, and Scandinavian Sleep Systems. A family-owned and -operated business that supports local charities, Beautyrest Sleep Gallery offers free local delivery and setup as well as a Best Price Guarantee. Shopping for a new mattress can be overwhelming, but with our wide variety of mattresses and expert sales staff, we can put your worries to rest. To get started, please visit us in store or explore our mattress selection online.