Do you live by yourself, or are you squeezed into a tiny apartment with your partner? Does your growing child need a new bed?
These are all situations that favor a full-size bed, a popular pick among solo sleepers, couples who live in small spaces, and growing children. That’s because a full bed is roomier than a twin-size bed yet doesn’t take up as much space as a queen-size bed.
But how big, exactly, is a full-size mattress, and will it work in your bedroom and your life?
Full-size mattress dimensions
Full bed dimensions ride that line between not too big and not too small. Full-size beds measure 54 x 75 inches. Standard full-size beds have the same measurements as double beds, so you’ll often see these two terms used interchangeably.
While full XL mattresses are much less common than standard full mattresses, at times, it is possible to find this size. It measures 54 x 80 inches, making it 5 inches longer than a standard full.
Comparing full-size mattress measurements
When looking to fill a smaller bedroom, it’s important to take into consideration all of your mattress size options. Whether you’re looking for a bed to fit your kid’s room, a guest room, or any other type of bedroom, the comparison table below will help you find the best option for your home. From full-size beds to twin xl size beds to queen-size beds, here’s what to keep in mind.
Mattress Type Mattress Dimensions Surface Area Best For Recommended Room Size Full-Size 54 in x 75 in 3,975 in² – Solo sleepers
– Young adults with small spaces– Small primary bedroom Full-Size XL 54 in x 80 in 4,240 in² – Solo sleepers
– Taller individuals with small spaces– Small primary bedroom Standard Twin 38 in x 75 in 2,850 in² – Young kids
– First “big kid beds”– Small, child-sized bedroom Twin XL 38 in x 80 in 3,040 in² – Young kids that are on the taller side
– Solo sleepers with small spaces– Small, child-sized bedroom Standard Queen 60 in x 80 in 4,800 in² – Couples with smaller spaces
– Solo sleepers that want more space– Mid-large-sized primary bedroom Standard King 76 in x 80 in 6,080 in² – Couples that want more space
– Young adults with large bedrooms– Large-sized primary bedroom
Deciding if a full-size mattress is right for you
In order to determine if a full-size mattress is right for you, consider the following:
- Who is sleeping in the bed
- Desired comfort level
- Bedroom size
- Body size
- Budget
- Temperature
- Motion isolation
Who will sleep in the bed
Because a full-size mattress is only 54 inches wide, it doesn’t provide adequate space for most couples. In a full-size bed, each person will only have 27 inches of space for themselves. That said, if you’re not physically large and don’t mind snuggling, it could be just fine. Additionally, because they’re not especially long, full-size beds aren’t a great option for tall folks. A full-size bed is just barely over 6 feet in length, so you’re looking at feet hanging over the edge of the bed if you’re a few inches over 6 feet.
Desired comfort level
When buying a full
Our dual-sided nontoxic crib mattress for little ones
, keep in mind that toddlers and younger children need a medium-firm mattress to adequately support their growing bodies.
For solo sleepers, take your sleep position into account—a softer mattress is ideal for side sleepers, a medium-firm mattress is good for back sleepers, and a firmer mattress is best for stomach sleepers.
Your room size
If you’re working with somewhat limited space, a full mattress could be right up your alley. For example, if you live in a one-bedroom apartment with a diminutive bedroom or you’re looking to fill a kids’ bedroom, a full mattress could be a good fit. The minimum recommended room size for a full-size bed is 10 x 10 feet.
If you have a small bedroom with a full-size bed, you may want to avoid nightstands because they take up serious real estate. A platform bed can incorporate storage, so that may be something to consider. Getting creative with wall shelving can also help maximize your space.
Your body size
While full mattresses may be good for heavier individuals, they may not provide enough space for heavier couples. However, full XL beds may give extra room to taller people, as their length extends an additional 5 inches for added comfort and personal space. Learn about the
The first luxury hybrid innerspring for bigger bodies
.
Your budget
You’ll be happy to know that full-size mattresses are less expensive than their larger counterparts. For instance, full-size beds are usually 10%-15% less than queen-size mattresses of the same style and brand. A full-size
America’s best-selling online luxury innerspring
will be the most affordable type of mattress since it tends to run less expensive than other mattress types.
Temperature
Whether you’re buying a full mattress or another size, if you sleep hot, you may want to skip memory foam since it can trap heat. Innerspring and
Our dual-sided organic natural latex mattress for buoyant, pressure-relieving comfort
sleep the coolest, resulting in improved sleep.
Motion isolation
For full mattresses and beyond, a
The most luxurious memory foam with adaptive cooling & body-hugging support
is the best at reducing motion isolation, while on an innerspring mattress, you may feel yourself or your partner moving around, which can disturb sleep.
Full-size mattress vs. other mattress sizes
When getting a mattress for a single sleeper or smaller bedroom space, there are a lot of mattress sizes that you can consider. Before finding the right mattress, it’s important to consider which size may suit your lifestyle the best.
Double vs. full size
Full-size beds and double mattresses are the same. They both measure 54 x 75 inches.
Full XL vs. full-size
As the less common version of the full mattress, a full XL measures 54 x 80 inches. If you can track down a full XL mattress, you’ll find that it’s a great option for taller teens or adults and could work nicely in a dorm room if there’s enough space to fit it. The extra length and legroom will ensure that even small sleeping spaces feel comfortable for tall people.
Twin & twin XL vs. full size
Twin and twin XL mattresses are just a little bit smaller than full-size mattresses. These are the perfect first “big kid bed” for children, can fit in small spaces, and work well in a child’s room. These are also the bed sizes most commonly found in college dorm rooms or in bunk beds.
Even if you’re a single adult looking to save some extra space in your apartment, though, it’s probably best to opt for full-size. Twin beds will feel cramped for adults and likely be uncomfortable. A full mattress will leave you with plenty of space as a solo sleeper.
Queen vs. full
While a full mattress offers plenty of room for solo sleepers and a cozy situation for couples, a queen mattress provides even more space with 6 additional inches in width. A queen-size mattress measures 60 x 80 inches. This size is perfect for a small primary bedroom or a guest bedroom. It’s one of the most popular mattress sizes amongst young adults.
A full mattress is an excellent choice for smaller rooms, but a queen will likely be too large and overwhelm a smaller room. Also, full-size beds are great for children, but queen mattresses will simply be too big for them.
King vs. full
King-size mattresses are the largest on the market right now. There are even multiple different types, including the standard king, split king, and California king mattresses. These have plenty of sleeping space for couples and are perfect for large bedrooms.
Single sleepers may find that king-size beds have a little too much space. A full-size bed will be the perfect new mattress for adults who are sleeping solo.
Our best full-size mattresses for children and adults
Youth Mattress
This dual-sided innerspring mattress provides optimal support and comfort to children of all ages. Simply flip it over from the 3+ side to the 8+ side when your child is ready.
Our best full-size mattresses for children and adults
Saatva Classic Innerspring Mattress
Our flagship luxury mattress is expertly engineered with coil-on-coil construction for durability, a layer of memory foam for enhanced back support, and a cushiony Euro pillow top for extra comfort.
Our best full-size mattresses for children and adults
Contour5 Mattress
Luxurious body-hugging feel and pressure relief with 3” of ultra-premium, high-density 5-lb memory foam.
Our best full-size mattresses for children and adults
Zenhaven Latex Mattress
Natural latex responds to every curve for pressure-free support and responsive comfort. Natural latex is supple, resilient, and durable, for the ultimate in elevated sleep. (It’s naturally hypoallergenic too.)
Our best full-size mattresses for children and adults
Latex Hybrid Mattress
This hybrid mattress combines the pressure-free support of natural latex with the classic innerspring feel. Handcrafted with pure materials for the ultimate in cool and healthy sleep.
Our best full-size mattresses for children and adults
Memory Foam Hybrid Mattress
This memory foam hybrid mattress features the perfect balance of body-contouring and responsive feel. Enjoy the innovative cooling system, which prevents overheating.
Full-size mattress FAQs
Without fail, there are common questions that come up when shopping for a full-size mattress. We’re here to help you with your shopping process by answering these questions.
Are full-size mattresses the same as double beds?
Full-size mattresses and double beds are the same. Both measure 54 x 75 inches.
Is a full-size mattress big enough for two people?
A full-size mattress can fit two people of small or average size. However, know in advance that it will be a bit on the snug side. It may not be roomy enough for two larger people. Because a full-size mattress measures only 54 inches in width, it often doesn’t provide enough space for couples and is instead a better option for solo sleepers.
Can queen sheets fit on a full bed?
Queen sheets usually measure 60 x 80 inches, while full sheets typically measure 54 x 75 inches. A fitted queen sheet will be loose on a full-size bed and will not fit properly. It’s best to look for a full-size sheet set instead.
What’s the difference between a full and full XL mattress?
A full-size mattress measures 54 x 75 inches, while a full XL mattress is 54 x 80 inches. A full XL is 5 inches longer and is much less common than a standard full mattress.
What’s the difference between a full XL and queen bed?
A full XL mattress measures 54 x 80 inches and a queen mattress measures 60 x 80 inches. A full XL is slightly narrower than a queen.
What’s the difference between a queen-size bed and full-size mattress?
A queen size bed measures 60 x 80 inches and a full size measures 54 x 75 inches. A full mattress is slightly narrower and shorter than a queen.
What’s the difference between a full-size mattress and a twin-size mattress?
A full-size mattress measures 54 x 75 inches, while a twin measures 38 x 75 inches. A full is 16 inches wider than a twin.
How wide is a full-size bed frame?
A standard full-size bed frame is 54 inches wide.
What room size is best for a full-size bed?
At a minimum, you’ll want to place a full-size bed in a room that measures 10 x 10 feet. If you go any smaller than that, your room may feel too cramped. Ideally, you’ll place a full-size bed in a room that’s 10 x 12 feet.
Why choose a full-size mattress?
It’s a good option for solo sleepers since it offers plenty of room for individuals and is less expensive than a queen or king. A full mattress is also a smart pick for growing children since it should comfortably fit into a child’s bedroom.
Buying a high-quality full-size mattress
After you’ve determined if a full-size bed is right for you, it’s important to buy your mattress from a high-quality, trusted brand. If you’re in the market for a new bed, Saatva carries a large selection of high-quality mattresses that can easily fit into any lifestyle.
Whether you’re looking for the perfect mattress for your children or a full-size bed to save some valuable floor space, we’re a one-stop shop for all of your bed and mattress needs. Try a new full-size Saatva mattress for 365 nights to see if it’s right for you.
Explore other mattress sizes
Decided a full-size mattress isn’t right for you? Learn more about other common mattress sizes on the market to find your perfect fit.
- Mattress dimensions guide
- Crib bed dimensions
- Twin bed dimensions
- Queen bed dimensions
- King bed dimensions
