Mattress Sizes
How to Choose the Right Mattress Size for You

Beds come in a variety of different sizes to accommodate different needs and preferences. 

Each mattress size corresponds to standardized dimensions for the length and width, so that mattresses from different brands will all fit the same bed frames and headboards.  The most common mattress sizes are King, Queen, Full (Double), and Twin (Single).

The bestselling mattress size in the United States is queen size.

Standard Mattress Sizes

Below are the measurement dimensions (in inches) of the most popular mattress sizes in the United States and Canada. European mattresses sizes are different.

Choosing the Right Mattress Size

In choosing a mattress size, make sure to choose a size that is big enough to comfortably fit those sleeping in the bed, but small enough to fit comfortably in the room where it will be placed (including enough room for each person to get in and out of bed!). Consider your future needs as well, since an investment in a quality mattress should last you 8-10 years.  Lastly, it doesn't hurt to take some measurements to make sure the size you choose will fit through the doorway, hallways, and stairwells of your home.

Mattress Size Trends

Not surprisingly, bed size preferences appear to be getting larger over time. Until as recently as the 1970's, the most popular bed size was Full (which is why full-size mattresses are sometimes referred to as "standard" size). However, the queen-size bed is now the most widely purchased mattress size in the United States, followed by king-size mattresses. The California king (also known as "Western King") is slightly longer and narrower than a standard king (sometimes referred to as an "Eastern King").

Unique Mattress Sizes

Though most mattress models are available across a wide variety of sizes, certain bed types are known for being more limited in their size selection. For instance, hard-sided waterbeds are generally not available in traditional bed sizes, but rather are found in the longer California king, California queen and super single sizes. Similarly, "king split" and "queen split" mattresses tend to be most commonly used with adjustable beds, since each partner will be able to adjust their own side independently. Likewise, "extra long" bed sizes are most often found in dormitories; 3/4 mattresses are used primarily with antique bed frames, and crib mattresses are naturally used only in baby beds and toddler beds.

When considering an unconventional mattress size, be aware that your selection of bedroom furniture (eg, bed frames, headboards, footboards, and the like) as well as sheets and other bedding will be much more limited -- and perhaps more expensive -- in these less popular sizes.

Do the internal characteristics of a given mattress model differ depending on the size?

No, not normally. In the vast majority of cases, both the total mattress height as well as the makeup of its internal layers will be exactly the same no matter which size you choose. That said, to the extent the "edge" construction differs from the rest of the mattress, that construction will represent a greater or lesser portion of the overall mattress depending on what size you get. For example, let's say there is a 4" foam rail going around the perimeter of the mattress to provide enhanced edge support. Where this foam rail exists, it is in lieu of the spring unit that goes across the rest of the mattress. On a twin size mattress, a 4" perimeter would represent a little over 20% of the total surface area. But on a king-size mattress, this would amount to only about 10% of the mattress surface. It may also be worth noting that n some cases, features like handles may be added or removed depending on the size you choose. Apart from those (rather subtle) differences, you are simply getting a larger or smaller version of the same thing.