Queen Size Mattress Dimensions: How Big Is a Queen Size Bed?
Key Takeaways
- Versatile Size and Popular Choice: The queen size mattress, at 60 inches by 80 inches, strikes a balance between compactness and space, making it suitable for most bedrooms and ideal for couples or single sleepers who enjoy extra room.
- Variety of Options: Beyond the standard queen, options like the California queen, Olympic queen, and split queen provide variations in size and features to meet specific needs, such as extra length or width, and customizable firmness for couples.
- Fit and Future Considerations: A queen mattress fits well in rooms at least 10 feet by 10 feet, offering enough space for bedroom furniture and movement. It’s also a practical choice for growing families or those planning to accommodate future changes, providing comfort without overwhelming the room.
A queen size mattress is 60 inches wide by 80 inches long, or 5 feet by roughly 6.66 feet. It’s a versatile mattress, able to comfortably fit two people or provide a person with plenty of space to move around. That’s why a queen bed is the most popular mattress size.
A queen is 6 inches wider and 5 inches longer than a full mattress, but 16 inches narrower than a king mattress. If two people share a queen mattress, they each have about 30 inches of width to themselves—that’s 8 inches less than a twin XL mattress, but still enough space for most couples.
Are you considering a queen size mattress? You should check if your bedroom is at least 10 feet by 10 feet. A bed placed against the wall would leave you roughly 2.5 feet on each side and about 3.34 feet in front of the mattress. That’s plenty of room for bedroom furniture and walking space.
Other Queen Sizes
The standard queen size isn’t your only choice when it comes to a queen mattress. Alternative sizes are harder to find and may require a special order from a custom mattress maker, but they do exist and offer extra space.
The California queen is 4 inches longer than a normal queen, much like how a California king bed is 4 inches longer than a normal king. A California queen mattress can give a tall person much-needed legroom and prevent their feet from dangling over the edge.
An Olympic queen, which is occasionally referred to as an expanded queen, is 6 inches wider than a regular queen bed. It offers more sleeping space without requiring the floor space that a king mattress would.
A split queen mattress is the same size as a standard queen, but divided into halves. A split queen mattress lets each partner choose their preferred firmness for a good night’s rest. Many couples find it better than compromising on a mattress that suits neither of them.
More Mattress Sizes
When it comes to mattress sizes and dimensions, a queen mattress isn’t the right choice for everyone. You might be a single sleeper who needs a bed size that fits into a smaller room, or you might need a larger mattress to share with your partner. We will give a brief overview of your other options so that you can be confident you’re choosing the mattress that’s right for you.
Twin
Size: 38 inches by 75 inches
A twin size mattress is the smallest size that most sleepers would consider—a crib mattress is technically the smallest standard size. It’s a popular choice for a child’s bedroom, whether it’s a single or a bunk bed for two to share. Twin beds are also used in small guest rooms and studio apartments.
Twin XL
Size: 38 inches by 80 inches
A twin XL size mattress has 5 inches of extra length than a standard twin mattress. If you want a mattress that can accommodate a child’s teenage growth spurt, a twin XL mattress is a smart choice. It’s also the bed size most college dorms have, although a few do contain full size mattresses instead.
Full
Size: 54 inches by 75 inches
A full size mattress, sometimes called a double bed, offers 16 inches of extra width than a twin mattress. It’s an excellent choice for people who like to sprawl or tend to toss and turn while they sleep.
Some couples do try to share a full size bed, but we suggest a queen size if you and your partner are looking for a mattress. Sleeping on half of a full mattress is like sleeping on a crib mattress, with about 27 inches of width.
If you’re a taller sleeper, you might want to consider a full XL mattress. It offers 5 more inches of length than a standard full bed. However, it’s not a common size and may require you to hunt online to find one.
King
Size: 76 inches by 80 inches
Also known as an eastern king, a king size mattress is the largest standard size mattress. It’s best suited for master bedrooms that are at least 12 feet by 12 feet.
Couples who feel that a queen size mattress is too small might want to consider a king size bed. If you’re interested in comparing the differences between the two, check out our king vs. queen mattresses article.
California King
Size: 72 inches by 84 inches
A California king size mattress, sometimes called a Western king, is 4 inches longer and 4 inches narrower than a standard king bed. People taller than 6 feet might want to try a California king mattress if a regular king mattress feels cramped.
A California king bed usually costs about as much as a standard king mattress. However, bedding accessories such as bed frames, box springs,
If you’re undecided on which is the best mattress for you, our article comparing a king to a Cal king might help you make a choice.’
Why a Queen Size Mattress Could Be Your Best Choice?
Here’s why choosing a queen size mattress could be the right decision for you:
1. Ideal for Most Bedrooms
A queen size mattress, measuring 60 inches by 80 inches, strikes a perfect balance between the compactness of a full-size and the spaciousness of a king-size bed.
This makes it a suitable option for most bedrooms, providing ample space for two adults without overwhelming the room. It’s a practical choice for both master and guest bedrooms, offering a touch of luxury without compromising on space.
2. Perfect for Couples
The queen size mattress is well-suited for couples, offering each person 30 inches of personal space.
This extra width compared to a full-size mattress (54 inches wide) provides more comfort and reduces the likelihood of disturbing your partner during the night. It’s spacious enough to accommodate two people comfortably, making it ideal for a peaceful night’s sleep.
3. Versatile and Space-Efficient
For those who want a mattress that fits well in a variety of room sizes, the queen size offers versatility. It’s a great choice for smaller master bedrooms or larger guest rooms.
Its dimensions provide enough space for stretching out and relaxing, while still being manageable in terms of space utilization and room layout.
4. A Good Investment for Growing Families
If you’re planning to expand your family or frequently host guests, a queen size mattress can be a practical long-term investment. It provides ample space for growing children or extra visitors, ensuring that everyone has a comfortable place to sleep.
5. Affordable Luxury
Queen size mattresses often strike a balance between affordability and luxury. They are generally less expensive than king-size mattresses, yet they offer a generous amount of space that can elevate your sleep experience. This makes them a cost-effective option for those seeking comfort without breaking the bank.
6. Compatibility with Standard Bedding
Another advantage of a queen size mattress is its compatibility with standard bedding sizes. Queen size sheets, comforters, and mattress protectors are widely available, making it easier to find the perfect fit for your mattress.
This standardization also ensures that you can easily update or refresh your bedding as needed.
7. Comfortable for Various Sleeping Positions
Whether you’re a back sleeper, side sleeper, or stomach sleeper, a queen size mattress provides ample room to accommodate different sleeping positions comfortably.
The extra space allows for a more restful sleep by reducing pressure points and providing enough room to adjust your sleeping posture.
Finding the Right Mattress Size for Your Needs
Choosing the right mattress size is essential for a good night’s sleep and fitting your space comfortably. Here’s a quick guide to help you select the perfect size:
1. Measure Your Room
Start by measuring your bedroom’s dimensions. Consider the space needed for the mattress as well as other furniture. Here’s a quick overview of common sizes:
- Twin (38” x 75”): Ideal for small rooms or children’s beds.
- Full (54” x 75”): Suitable for slightly larger rooms or as a versatile option.
- Queen (60” x 80”): Great for master or guest bedrooms.
- King (76” x 80”): Perfect for spacious rooms or couples needing extra space.
- California King (72” x 84”): Offers extra length, ideal for taller individuals.
2. Consider the Number of Sleepers
- Single Sleeper: A twin or full-size mattress is usually sufficient.
- Couples: Opt for a queen or king for added space.
- Families: A king or California king provides ample room for additional sleepers.
3. Think About Sleeping Position
Your preferred sleeping position can impact your choice:
- Back Sleepers: A queen or king offers balanced comfort.
- Side Sleepers: A larger mattress like a king gives extra space.
- Combination Sleepers: A queen or king provides flexibility for movement.
4. Plan for the Future
Consider future needs, such as additional space for a partner or changes in your living situation. Investing in a slightly larger mattress might be beneficial long-term.
5. Budget and Testing
Mattress sizes vary in price, so choose one that fits your budget while offering the space and comfort you need. If possible, test different sizes to find what feels best for you.
Taking Care of Your Queen Size Mattress
Once you’ve chosen your perfect queen mattress, make sure you take the time to care for it. Just a little bit of time spent caring for your bed can extend its lifespan.
You should try to wash your sheets weekly to prevent dust mites and debris from settling into your mattress. If you use a comforter encased in a cover, you should clean the cover weekly while limiting your comforter to a wash once or twice a year.
We strongly recommend a cover for queen size comforters, as most comforters are too big to fit in the average home’s washer and require professional cleaning. It’s easier and less expensive to bring it in every six months than once a week.
To further keep your mattress clean, give it a quick vacuum in between sheet changes to suck up any dirt or allergens that your body might otherwise grind into your bed.
Your mattress should be rotated every three to six months. With a queen size mattress, you might need an extra set of hands to help you lift and turn the bed.
You’ll want to wash your pillows at least every three to six months—pillows can collect all sorts of stuff such as sweat, hair, and dead skin. Just double-check that your queen size pillow is machine washable since some types can be damaged by agitators, such as solid memory foam pillows.
Frequently Asked Questions
How big is a queen size bed in centimeters?
A queen size mattress is 152.4 centimeters wide and 203.2 centimeters long. Its surface area is 30967.68 cubed centimeters.
A California queen is 152.4 by 213.36 centimeters, while an Olympic queen is 167.64 by 203.2 centimeters.
How thick should a mattress be?
We always recommend buying a mattress that’s at least 10 inches thick. A thinner bed usually lacks the material needed to last years and years. If you’re looking for the best mattress for an adjustable bed, we further suggest that you do not buy a mattress thicker than 14 inches.
What is the biggest bed size?
The largest standard mattress size is a regular king bed. A California king mattress has a slightly smaller surface area than a normal king size bed.
If you look beyond the six common sizes, you’ll find there are oversized mattresses such as Wyoming King, Alaskan King, and Texas King. However, you may have to ask a manufacturer to make you a custom mattress if you want one of these bed sizes.
Should I get a queen or king bed?
Either a queen or king mattress would be an excellent choice for a couple, with each size possessing advantages and disadvantages. If you have a smaller bedroom or a restricted budget, you might want to choose a queen size mattress. If you and your partner need personal space to sleep comfortably or plan on co-sleeping with a child, a king size mattress might be better.
What is the difference between a queen and a queen split mattress?
A queen and a split queen have the same dimensions. However, a split queen is divided in half lengthwise, so two partners can have their own mattress. This allows couples who prefer different mattress firmnesses to share a bed without compromising their comfort.
Did We Help?
The best mattress for you might not be a queen size mattress, but it suits a wide range of sleepers. It can accommodate couples or a single sleeper who likes to spread out, while also fitting into most bedrooms.
Queen size mattresses are not only a space-efficient choice but a cost-effective option as well. Many quality queen mattresses cost under $1000, with bedding accessories such as sheets and frames available at all price points. If you’re looking for an affordable way to upgrade your bedroom, a queen mattress might be the right answer.
This article is for informational purposes and should not replace advice from your doctor or other medical professional.
Sarah Anderson, Certified Sleep Science Coach
Sarah Anderson is a sleep, health, and wellness writer and product reviewer. She has written articles on changing and improving your sleep schedule, choosing the right mattress for chronic pain conditions, and finding the best pillow for you. Sarah Anderson has her Bachelor of Arts degree from Arizona State University in Journalism and Mass Communications. Prior to working for Zoma, she wrote for a variety of news publications. Sarah's work has been featured on Bustle, PureWow, and other publications.
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