Twin XL Mattress And Twin Size Bed Dimensions

When it comes to a practical, affordable, and versatile bed, a twin size is the best option. Although twin mattress sizes are not the most popular size, they run a close second after queen size beds.

Found in dorm rooms, small city apartments, and children’s rooms across the country—twin beds are a great space saver. Plus, they come with several other surprising benefits.

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Twin Size Bed Dimensions

Twin size bed dimensions measure 38 inches wide by 75 inches long. Twin mattresses are one of the smallest sizes available after children’s sizes, such as a crib or toddler bed. Small single mattresses measure slightly smaller than a twin (30 inches wide by 75 inches long). However, small singles are not as readily available as twin beds.

The depth of a twin bed dimensions will vary depending on the mattress size and type. Most mattress size and dimensions are between 9 to 16 inches thick, but this depth could increase with additional comfort layers or pillow tops.

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How Do Twin Size Beds Compare to Other Sizes?

Compared to a full mattress, or double bed, twin beds have the same length—75 inches. So, you won’t have to sacrifice length when opting for a twin bed. However, twin beds are 16 inches narrower than a full.

The following mattress size chart shows how twin beds compare to other standard size mattresses.

Benefits of a Twin Size Bed

Twin beds are not built for two people, but for solo sleepers with limited space, a twin is a great option. Read on to discover more advantages of a twin  bed.

Great for Growing Children

Twin beds are ideal for kids of all ages. When young children outgrow their crib mattress or toddler bed, they may not be quite ready for a full size bed. Plus, their bedroom may not accommodate a larger bed or it may take up too much living space.

Twin beds are the perfect mattress size for any child’s room. This mattress size allows kids to sleep comfortably in a more spacious bed. Plus, a twin bed won’t encroach on their play area or the available living space in their bedroom. If you have two children that share a room, two twins will leave extra space in the room, so kids won’t feel cramped.

Older children may start to feel confined when sleeping on a twin bed. Throughout their teen years, kids may prefer a mattress size that offers them a bit more space spread out and more leg room as they grow. In this case, a full or queen size bed may be the best option.

However, if these mattresses are too big for their bedroom, you can opt for a twin XL. Twin XL mattresses are particularly helpful for taller teens since they are 5 inches longer than a regular twin. See also our guide to the best mattresses for teenagers.

Suitable for Single Adults

Twin beds are not just comfortable for children; most adults can sleep comfortably on a twin bed. If you are a single sleeper with limited space, a twin bed can be a big space saver—this is especially true if you rent a room or if you live in a loft or studio apartment.

If you are taller than 6 feet, a twin XL size may be the best choice since these beds are 5 inches longer than a twin bed. However, if you frequently toss and turn during the night, a full size bed will offer more space so you won’t have to worry about rolling off the bed. Our guide to mattresses for tall people has more information and recommendations.

Economical

Twin beds may be one of the smallest mattress sizes available, but they are also the more affordable option. If you are looking for a cost-effective option for a child’s bedroom, guest room, or vacation house, twin beds are a popular choice. Two twin beds can also be used in a standard size bedroom to accommodate guests.

Practical and Easy to Move

Unlike queen and king size beds and even California king mattress beds, twin beds are lightweight and easy to move. If you move frequently, these beds can be easily fit in most vans, trucks, or storage spaces. Twin beds can also be quickly lifted up staircases or into apartment building elevators.

Twin size mattresses can even be used as couches on a futon style frame or daybed frame. This versatility allows those in small living spaces to maximize their space even more.

The trundle of a daybed can be pulled out for guests, and futons can function as a couch during the day and a bed at night. Twin beds offer sleepers more creative ways to utilize their space.

Easy to Accessorize

Every mattress needs the right accessories. Items such as bed frames, mattress foundations, sheets, comforters, and duvet covers can enhance both the bed’s look and feel. When shopping for a larger mattress, such as a California king mattress, accessories may be limited.

With a twin mattress, you won’t have to worry about this issue. Twin bedding and foundation options are widely available in several different styles. With such a wide selection, you won’t have any trouble finding accessories that fit your room decor.

Perfect for Small Spaces

In the United States, most bedrooms measure 10 by 12 feet. However, older homes can have rooms as small as 7 by 10 feet. Spaces can become even more confined when living in a small city apartment. The great thing about a twin bed is that it will fit comfortably even in a smaller room, especially if you look at options like futon mattresses that can be put away during the day.

In a master bedroom that measures 14 by 16 feet, one twin bed will not fill the space completely. In this case, it may be best to opt for two twin size beds.

Variations of a Twin Size Bed

For the most part, a twin mattress size is fairly standard in their dimensions. You may come across mattresses labeled as “small singles,” but it is important to note that singles are 8 inches narrower than a true twin bed.

The only other variation you may come across is a twin XL. Below, we outline the differences between twin XL and twin, so you can determine which is right for you.

Twin XL

Twin XL beds measure 38 x 80 inches—5 inches longer than a standard twin mattress. These two mattress sizes have the exact same width—38 inches. Our twin vs twin XL guide discusses their differences in depth.

For adults that require a bit more leg room, but don’t have enough space for a full or queen mattress, a twin XL size mattress is a great option. Many college dorm rooms utilize twin XL beds to accommodate taller sleepers without taking up too much space in the small room (Read more about best mattresses for college students here).

If you plan to purchase a twin XL, be sure your bed frame can accommodate the extra length. If you have a standard twin size frame, it may be compatible with side panel extension. These extensions allow you to lengthen the sides of the frame to fit a twin XL size mattress.

Two twin XL mattresses also make a split king, which can work well with king size beds. The idea of a split king or even split California king size bed is that each partner can set up their side of the bed to their liking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size room works best for a twin-size bed?

A twin bed can fit in most bedroom sizes. As long as the room is at least 7 by 10 feet, a twin should fit comfortably. With a twin size bed, you will still have plenty of room for bedroom furniture, such as nightstands and dressers. Plus, twins leave more living space in the bedroom.

What are a California king mattress size dimensions?

The California king size bed dimensions are 72 inches wide by 84 inches long. A California king size mattress is best suited for taller people, or for more narrow bedrooms where a standard king size mattress will not fit as well.  Aesthetically, California king mattress size beds tend to be more popular.

Do two twin beds make a queen size bed?

No. Many companies offer a split queen bed, which is two 30 x 80 inches mattresses. When placed side by side, these beds equal 60 x 80 inches, the mattress size of a standard queen size mattress. But, this size is not the equivalent of two twins since twins measure 38 by 75 inches.

Split king mattresses are the equivalent of two twin XL mattresses, which measure 38 inches by 80 inches each. When placed side by side, two twin XLs beds measure 76 x 80 inches, the mattress size of a standard king size mattress.

Are twin size beds the same size as a single bed?

Although twins are sometimes referred to as “single beds,” twin and single beds have different dimensions. Twin beds measure 38 inches wide by 75 inches long. But, small singles beds measure 30 inches wide by 75 inches long. Singles are not as common as twins and can be difficult to find.

Can a twin size bed fit two adults?

Twin beds are designed to accommodate one sleeper. Two sleepers may fit on a twin bed, but they will be cramped and forced to sleep in awkward sleep positions that cause morning aches and pains. Depending on each sleeper’s size, adult couples typically sleep most comfortably on a queen or king size mattress, or even California king mattress size.

Can twin fitted sheets fit a twin XL mattress?

No. A standard twin fitted sheet will only measure 75 inches long. This length won’t accommodate the  80-inch length of a twin XL. Although color selections may be limited, twin XL sheet sets are readily available on the web, and some may be bundled with online mattresses.

What size is a twin blanket?

Twin blankets and comforters typically measure between 66 to 68 inches wide by 90 inches long. This mattress size should also fit a twin XL mattress.

To account for depth, you can add the width of your mattress and the height on both sides to determine how wide your blanket or comforter should be. For example, most twin mattresses measure 38 inches wide. If your bed sits 12 inches high, you would need a blanket that is at least 62 inches wide to fit your bed. This quick measurement will ensure the blanket fully covers the mattress and hangs down far enough on each side.

Conclusion

Twin size beds are a practical choice when you are limited on space. They are suitable for both children and most adults. Plus, they can be used in a variety of living spaces—including dorm rooms, lofts, and small city apartments. With a twin bed, you can make the most out of your small space and still sleep comfortably. With many modern mattress in a box brands, comfortable and supportive twin size mattresses can be shipped right to your doorstep. Twin bed frames are also functional, lightweight, and can be used in a variety of ways.