Whether you’re shopping for a new mattress, buying sheets for your bed, or planning a move, there are times when you need to know a few key mattress dimensions. Keep reading to learn more about why you should measure your mattress, get tips on how to measure a mattress, and find answers to your most frequently asked questions.
Why you should measure your mattress
Let’s walk through four essential mattress measurements and why they’re important.
Mattress height
Measuring the height of the mattress will help you figure out how deep-fitted your sheets need to be. Most standard mattresses are eight to 12 inches thick—however, it’s common to find mattresses that are 14, 16, and even 18 inches thick these days. (Note: Because Saatva mattresses are handcrafted, sometimes height measurements may not be exact and can be off by about an inch.)
If you have a mattress that’s thicker than the average then you’ll want to choose deep-pocket or extra deep-pocket sheets, which range from 15 to 22 inches. A fitted sheet should cover the sides of the mattress completely and tuck underneath it. Make sure your fitted sheet is one or two inches deeper than your mattress for optimal fit.
Mattress length and width
Measuring the length and width of the mattress—and the dimensions of the bedroom you plan to put it in—will help you determine if the mattress will comfortably fit inside your space.
Here’s a handy chart that shows the minimum recommended room size for each standard mattress size:
Mattress Size Mattress Dimensions Min. Recommended Room Size Twin 38″ x 75″ 7′ x 10′ Twin XL 38″ x 80″ 7′ x 10′ Full 54″ x 75″ 10′ x 10′ Queen 60″ x 80″ 10′ x 10′ King 76″ x 80″ 12′ x 12′ Cal King 72″ x 84″ 12′ x 12′
Bed height
Measuring the full height of the bed setup—which includes the mattress, foundation, and frame—will help you determine how easily you’ll be able to get in and out of bed.
When it comes to foundations, you have a standard option (8.75 inches) and a lower-profile option (4.75 inches). These are critical measurements because the combination of a thick mattress with a standard foundation can be too high for some people.
Doorways, hallways, and stairways
Measuring the dimensions of doorways, hallways, and stairways will help you figure out if a mattress will fit inside your home. If a king-size bed is too large for your space, consider a split king, which is made up of two twin XLs, instead.
How to measure a mattress
1. Take sheets, pillows, and blankets off your bed
Your measuring tool must lie flat against the mattress, so start by stripping the mattress bare to get accurate measurements. The only exception? If you’re someone who uses a mattress topper or protector, then you should keep those items on the bed when measuring the height to help you figure out sheet depth when those items are on the bed.
2. Measure the height of your mattress
To measure mattress height, you’ll want to measure up toward the center of the bed, not from the bottom corner or top corner. This will ensure you get an accurate measurement that includes the pillow top in the height. Remember to leave your mattress topper or protector on the mattress if you use either of those items.
3. Measure the length and width of your mattress
To measure mattress length and width, measure from right to left across the center of the mattress. This will ensure the most accurate measurement.
4. Write down the measurements
Record the measurements as you go. The traditional pen-and-paper route works for most. Alternatively, you can tap the measurements into the notes app on your phone. Either way, you’ll need these precise measurements when shopping for your new mattress or new bedding or deciding whether the bed will fit into a new space.
Improve your sleep with these Saatva mattresses
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.
Contour5 Mattress
Luxurious body-hugging feel and pressure relief with 3” of ultra-premium, high-density 5-lb memory foam.
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.)
FAQs
How do you measure a mattress for fitted sheets?
To measure a mattress for fitted sheets, you’ll need to measure the mattress height. Do this by measuring up toward the center of the bed, not from the bottom or top corner. If you use a mattress topper or protector, keep that on the bed to get the most accurate measurement for your sheets.
How do you measure mattress height?
The best way to measure mattress height is by measuring up toward the center of the bed. This will help you get an accurate measurement that includes the pillow top in the height.
How do you measure a mattress with tape?
Use a retractable measuring tape to stretch the tape across the length and width of the mattress from left to right, moving across the middle of the mattress. Next, measure from the head to the foot of the bed, stretching across the center of the mattress, to get the mattress height.
What is a standard mattress size?
The standard mattress sizes are twin (38 x 75 inches), twin XL (38 x 80 inches), full (54 x 75 inches), queen (60 x 80 inches), king (76 x 80 inches), and California king (72 x 84 inches).
Find the right mattress size at Saatva
Saatva offers a full range of high-quality mattresses in various sizes from twin to California king. All of our mattresses are handcrafted and made to order.
Plus, you’ll have a full 365-night home trial to try out your mattress before deciding if you want to keep it. Once you decide on a mattress, you can enjoy our lifetime warranty.
Take our mattress quiz to find the right mattress for you.
