So you've decided it's time to upgrade and replace your mattress. Selecting a new mattress for your home is a BIG decision financially, but also physically. Beyond finding a mattress that meets all of your requirements i.e. price point, materials, delivery method, softness, firmness, etc. you’re probably asking yourself “what size bed do I need?”
It can be challenging to determine the right dimension of mattress for your height and weight and the best fit for your bedroom. We know there are a lot of questions to answer when buying a mattress. The frustration can be real!
Common Mattress Sizes
The easiest way to pick the right mattress for your lifestyle and needs is to view a mattress size chart. This lets you visualize the differences and how they’ll affect your bedroom’s flow — and your sleeping comfort.
If you feel overwhelmed by all the options, fret not! We’ll cover the important factors for each of these mattress sizes so you can make the best choice.
Queen Mattress Dimensions
The size of a queen mattress runs at 60" X 80" X 13". The most popular size mattress, a queen is ideal for a sleeper that likes to spread out or for couples. A queen is seven inches wider and five inches longer than a full – a substantial difference! A very functional and practical choice, a queen should fit in most rooms comfortably.
Twin Mattress Dimensions
Twin mattress dimensions are 38" X 75" X 13". This is the ideal size for children, bunk beds, single sleepers or for a day bed. It’s a great choice for saving space, but can be outgrown quickly depending on the circumstances. Plus, we offer twin bedding in percale, sateen and linen. To find what bedding is right for you check out The Parachute Fabric Guide.
Full Size Mattress Dimensions
The Parachute Mattress in full is sized at 53" X 75" X 13". We like to think of this as a good starter mattress. It’s great for growing children, a guest bedroom, a single person with limited space or a duo that likes to spoon. A full is often referred to as a double bed and is 15 inches wider than a twin. A full isn’t the best choice for couples who like their space or those who plan to invite pets and kids into bed. However, it’s a great mattress for a first apartment or for those who have an extra bedroom for overnight stays.
King Size Mattress Dimensions
A king size mattress is 76" X 80" X 13". A large piece of furniture for your bedroom, this size is best for couples who like to have space or share their bed with pets and/or kids. 16 inches wider than a queen, a king size mattress is a big upgrade so make sure to take careful measurements of your room.
Crib Mattress Dimensions
A crib mattress is designed to accommodate your baby from right after birth until they’re big enough for a toddler bed. Some cribs even convert into toddler beds so you can get a few more years out of your mattress and bed frame.
The Natural Dual Firm Crib Mattress measures 28”W x 52”L x 5”D and fits into most traditional-sized cribs.
What Size is a Twin XL Mattress?
Our twin XL mattress dimensions are 38" X 80" X 13" making it five inches longer than a twin. This mattress suits children and teenagers and is most commonly found in college dorm rooms. A split king can also be created with two twin XL mattresses for greater adaptability based on sleep preferences.
California King Mattress Dimensions
The longest mattress available, a California king's dimensions are 72" X 84" X 13". At 84 inches in length, this mattress suits taller individuals or those just looking for ample space. The cal king provides a luxurious sleep experience that will give you hotel vibes. Because of the great length of this mattress it is best for spacious rooms, so again make sure to put your measuring tape to work!
How to Choose the Right Mattress?
It’s important to think throughhow and where your new mattress will be used before you make your selection. Are you shopping for a new mattress for the guest room, or finally upgrading to the bed of your dreams? Ideally, the bed you choose will tick every box, fit seamlessly into your home and start providing restful sleep from the very first night.
Here are the most important factors to help you decide what size bed you need:
What size room are you getting a mattress for?
Is this new mattress for an expansive main bedroom with plenty of room on all sides? (Think about walkways and furniture like bedside tables and dressers.) Or — are you shopping for a new bed for a small bedroom in an apartment building?
Old-construction buildings often have small bedrooms with architectural elements to work around. Unless your bedroom is a big open box, you’ll need to be creative about your furniture configuration. That way the room will flow well and you’ll have plenty of space on all sides. Try to leave at least 30 inches of clearance on the left, right, and foot of the bed.
Don’t be afraid to measure, take pictures and map out where your mattress will fit in your room.
Where is the bedroom located?
Keep in mind that you need to get the mattress safely into your home, so consider what size will best fit through the door, up the stairs and down the hall.
Who’s using the bed?
Consider if this mattress will be just for you or, for you and a partner. If it's for two of you, try to thinkor talk through your individual needs. If you have children or pets who sometimes sleep in your bed, it's a good idea to size up if you can.
If you’re shopping for a mattress for a child who just graduated from a convertible crib or toddler bed, choose a big enough bed for them to use for the next few years as they grow.
What’s your body type?
Perhaps a longer bed is a better option for you if you’re tall or a wider bed to better support your frame. Make sure your mattress fits you!
What position do you sleep in?
Take notice of the positions you fall asleep in and wake up. Do you spread out like a starfish or do you curl up like a cat? Knowing your sleep style will help you to determine what size mattress is best for your needs. For more on the unique ergonomic zones in The Parachute Mattress read here.
Selecting a Bed Frame to Complement Your New Mattress
Once you pick the right mattress for your needs, you should also consider upgrading your bed frame.
If you’ve changed mattress sizes, you’ll definitely need a new bed frame since your old one will no longer fit. Even if you stay with the same mattress measurements, it can be nice to invest in a new bed frame to complete the package for a full bedroom redesign.
Fabric Bed Frames vs Classic Wood or Metal
Style and design factor significantly when choosing a new bed frame. Many classic bed frames made of wood or metal may fit in well with your existing decor. Fabric-covered bed frames provide a cozier feeling that blends well with luxurious bed linens and other soft furnishings.
Footboard or No Footboard?
Once upon a time, footboards were a very common stylistic choice for bed frames. They provide a nice element of symmetry when paired with a matching headboard. If you tend to prefer a clean look without draping fabrics, a footboard is a good choice. However, if you prefer lush beds with cascading blankets or duvets, then it's best to skip the footboard.
Complete Your Dream Bed With the Right Accessories
No king size bed or queen size bed is complete without a few key accessories. Step up your bedtime relaxation game with elements designed to protect your mattress investment and maximize comfort.
Use a Mattress Protector for a Longer Lasting Mattress
A mattress protector keeps your mattress fresh and free from stains and odors so you can sleep better in a cozy-clean bed. When shopping for a mattress protector, look for a natural fabric like cotton for breathability and durability.
Customize Your Mattress with a Mattress Pad or Bed Topper
Even if you use a mattress protector, it’s nice to have a mattress pad or topper on your bed for a touch of added softness.
The main difference between mattress pads and mattress toppers is that most pads are a bit thinner and feature elastic hems just like a fitted sheet. Mattress pads come filled with down or down alternative to suit your preferences.
Bed toppers add up to three inches of extra cushioning to your bed. Placed under the fitted sheet, a down mattress topper or down alternative mattress topper will make you feel like you’re sleeping on a cloud.
Picking the Right Size Pillows for Your Mattress
Until you’ve slept on a king size mattress, you may not realize that bigger beds require bigger pillows! Smaller mattresses like twins, full beds and queen beds work well with standard pillows or euro pillows, but wider beds like king beds and California king beds need king pillows to cover the full width of your bed.
Add the Finishing Touch with New Sheets and Blankets
Don’t forget to adorn your dreamy new bed with the perfect sheet set and blanket to match. Choose linen sheets if you want an elegant, temperature-regulating material. If you prefer cotton, look for a brushed cotton sheet set for a buttery soft finish like you’ve never felt before. Pair your new sheets with a duvet insert and duvet cover to complete the look.
Fill Your Bedroom With Luxury
Designing your perfect bedroom doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Parachute Home makes it easy to choose a mattress, find the perfect accessories for your ideal bed and complete your bedroom’s style with a luxurious bed frame and soft, comfortable linens to match.
No matter what colors, fabrics or styles you prefer, Parachute has something to please every sleeper!