Selecting the right size bed for you or your teen can be an undertaking. Not only do you have to consider your current needs, but you should also think about aesthetics, comfort, and the ease of buying bedding.
Consider:
Are you a single adult wondering if a twin is big enough?
Do you have a teenage child you’re buying a new bed for?
Are you married, but wondering if it’s “weird” to sleep in separate beds?
In this article, we’ll cover every difference between twin and full beds to guide you on your search. Informed, you’ll be able to balance comfort and affordability while looking forward to a restful sleep.
Twin vs Full Beds: What’s the Difference?
Twin beds and full beds are the same length, but twin beds are much narrower than full or double beds. Most often used as children’s beds, twin beds measure 38 inches wide by 75 inches long. Full beds typically measure 53 inches wide by 75 inches long and work well for solo-sleeping adults.
Some adults do choose to sleep in a twin or twin XL bed, but there are a few things to consider before you make that choice.
Comparing Dimensions for Full vs Twin Size Beds
Deciding between a twin and a full-size bed often comes down to size. Twin mattress sizes aren’t as wide as full mattresses, so it’s a good idea to review the dimensions of twin beds and full beds carefully.
So — how long is a twin bed? How wide is a twin bed compared to a full bed? Let’s take a look.
Choosing the Right Mattress Size
Now that we’ve covered the dimensions, it’s time to look at the pros and cons of each mattress size so you can make a decision you’ll rest easy with.
What Is a Twin Bed?
Unless you’re in the market for a crib mattress, a twin mattress size is the smallest you’ll find. Most children’s bed frames are designed for twin mattresses, but some adults with smaller bedrooms prefer twin beds too. Twin beds are 5 inches shorter than full-size beds or queen-size beds.
Pros for Twin Beds
Twin beds are smaller and easier to move
Twin beds are very affordable
Toddlers and children are most comfortable in twin beds
Cons for Twin Beds
Narrow width may be too small for some teenagers or adults
Your child may outgrow their twin bed measurements in a few years
Not very useful once your child leaves home
Who Is a Twin Bed Best For?
A twin bed is best for kids, teens and adults under six feet tall. Some single adults prefer a twin bed, while others are embarrassed when friends see they use a twin. Some couples choose twins (or twin XLs) for better sleep, though it can be harder to find quality bedding for a twin XL bed.
If you’re taller than six feet and you want to sleep alone, your best bet is a Twin XL. These are the same width as twin beds, but 5 inches longer.
Twin Beds Are Best For
First big-kid beds
Bunk Beds
Daybeds
Adults shorter than six feet
What Is a Twin XL Bed?
Most American colleges and universities offer their students twin XL beds for dorm rooms. Measuring 5 inches longer than twin beds, twin XL dimensions are perfect for taller kids and teenagers or even adults. Many single-sleeper adults in small apartments prefer a Twin XL bed to other sizes.
Pros for Twin XL Beds
Perfect for taller people who don’t mind a narrow bed
Children will outgrow them more slowly than regular twin beds
Cons for Twin XL Beds
Twin XL bed frames are less common
Not as useful once your child leaves home
Twin XL Beds Are Best For
Taller children and teens
Smaller studio apartments
Bringing your own mattress to the college dorm
What Is a Full Bed?
A full bed is the same length as a twin-size mattress but with an extra 15 inches of width. It’s the same as a double bed, but narrower than a queen. Whether you’re shopping for an older child, a teenager or an adult, a full bed provides plenty of space and comfort, and is easy to buy bedding for.
If you’re wondering if a double bed is the same as a full bed, the answer is yes. The two terms are used interchangeably.
Pros for Full Beds
Very comfortable for solo sleepers of any age and for couples who like to snuggle
Sheets for full beds are very easy to find in a range of materials and colors
Full beds fit better in smaller bedrooms than larger beds like queen-size or above
Cons for Full Beds
Harder to move than twin beds
More expensive than twin beds
Full Beds Are Best For
Recent graduates
Small main bedrooms
Large studio apartments
Guestrooms
What is a Full XL Bed?
Full XL beds are the same width as full beds or double beds but they’re 5 inches longer. This makes them ideal for taller teens or adults who need a bit more room than a twin XL. These beds are a bit less common than full-size beds or twin beds, so buying bedding is a bit more difficult.
Pros for Full XL Beds
Plenty of legroom
Great for stretching out in a smaller bedroom or apartment
Cons for Full XL Beds
Mattresses, bed frames and sheets are far less common than other standard sizes
Bedding is often more expensive because there are fewer options available
Full Beds Are Best For
Tall solo sleepers who can’t accommodate a queen-size bed
Common Differences Between Full and Twin Beds
Room size, price, and intended use may help you decide between a full or twin-size bed.
Price
Twin mattress sizes are less expensive up front. However, if your child outgrows them quickly, you’ll end up paying for another bed. If you have more than one child, twin-size beds make great hand-me-downs.
As with any mattress, the better the quality, the higher the price. Try to remember how much time we each spend asleep in our beds. The extra comfort is always worth the price of admission!
Room Size
If your bedroom is smaller than 10x10, a full-size bed is more difficult to accommodate comfortably than a twin. For the smallest bedrooms, a twin bed provides more room for other furniture and maneuvering.
Common Uses
Twin beds are the best choice in children’s rooms, offices with daybeds and in bunk beds. Full beds work well for teenagers’ rooms, guest rooms and smaller main bedrooms.
Accessories
Sheets, comforters and other bedding for twin beds use less material, so they’re always less expensive than bedding for full-size beds. Twin beds also need fewer pillows than full beds.
Twin and full beds are both common, so it’s easy to find accessories in a range of materials, colors and price points. However, you’ll find more high-quality bedding options in the full-size range.
Think you need something bigger than a full or twin bed? Check out our article on double beds vs queen beds.
FAQ: Twin and Full Beds
If you’re still wondering which size bed is best for your circumstances, you’re not alone! Here are answers to the most commonly asked questions about full and twin-size beds.
Is a twin bed good for adults?
At 38 inches wide, twin beds are very comfortable for children. However, larger teenagers or adults may have trouble stretching out in them. If you’re an adult and you prefer to sleep on your side, you may find that twin beds don’t provide enough space for you to sleep comfortably.
Is a full or a twin better?
Choosing between full and twin-size mattresses depends on your size and sleeping style. If you prefer more room to spread out, a full-size bed is better than a twin. If you don’t need much room, a twin bed saves space and money. Single-sleeper adults in small bedrooms often prefer twin XLs.
Is a twin bed big enough for two people?
Twin beds are generally too narrow for two adults to sleep in comfortably. If you’re looking for a bed for two adults to share frequently or even occasionally, it’s a good idea to invest in a full-size bed. Some couples do choose to sleep in separate twins or twin XL beds.
Is there a bed size between twin and full?
Twin XL beds are the same width as twin beds but 5 inches longer than both twin beds and full beds. Twin XL beds are perfect for taller teenagers to sleep in comfortably.
Is a full bed the same as two twins?
Full beds are 53 inches wide, while twin beds are 38 inches wide, so two twins are wider than a full-size bed.
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