Having the right mattress size and thickness is crucial for a good night’s sleep. Mattresses come in various sizes because people need different beds to accommodate their needs depending on their height and weight. Whether you’re buying for yourself, your kids, or a teen, there’s a mattress size for everyone. You can use these tips to help you navigate the mattress buying process.
Mattress Thicknesses and Firmness
Mattresses come in various thicknesses and firmnesses. That’s because people have different needs based on a plethora of factors, including age, height, weight, and chronic health issues. Nonetheless, most companies use soft to firm scale to help you find the right mattress for you.
No matter your age, though, the average person will benefit from a mattress that’s 10–12 inches. The average person also usually have a medium-firm thick mattress that offers support but is still easy on necks and backs.
However, younger children may benefit from a thicker mattress that provides more support for growing bodies. Individuals with chronic health issues, such as arthritis or back pain, may benefit from a softer mattress that’s thicker, such as a 14-inch, which will provide more support.
Adult Mattresses
Adults by far have the most mattress options. Nonetheless, the smallest recommended mattress size for an adult is a full, which still is better suited for tweens and teens, according to most research.
Below are the recommended mattresses for adults:
- California King- A California king is 72 by 84 inches. This is the longest mattress size available, making it suitable for tall couples. If you have pets or children who often sleep with you, the extra inches on this bed will help everyone sleep more comfortably.
- King- A king is 76 by 80 inches. If you still want extra room on your bed but may be limited by room space or budget, a 12-inch king mattress size may be right for you.
- Queen- This bed runs 60 by 80 inches and is the most commonly purchased bed size. The average couple will have enough personal space on this mattress without sacrificing as much room space as a king requires.
- Full- Full mattresses are 54 by 75 inches. A single adult is most suited for a full since the smaller mattress size may make it uncomfortable for you and your partner at night. Nonetheless, this is still a popular option for young couples on a budget or limited room space.
Teen and Tweens
Here are the recommended mattresses for teens are tweens:
- Full- While suitable for taller tweens, the full will be the best option for teens, especially if they’re taller than their peers.
- XL Twin- This mattress runs 39 by 80 inches and is common in dorm rooms. Tall tweens and most teens will be comfortable on an XL twin. However, if your teen is tall or moves around in their sleep, a full may be a better option.
- Twin- Twins are 39 by 74 inches.Since they’re shorter than an XL twin, note that this is still more suited for older or taller children than teens. Shorter tweens with low body weights can use twins, though.
Kid Mattresses
Children’s mattresses should be sturdy, fairly thick, and made from a durable material. Kids tend to be rough on beds, so be sure to pick one that will survive being jumped on, spilled on, and played on. Again, twins are best suited for kids who have graduated from their crib mattress but aren’t yet ready for an XL twin.
Infants and Babies
Infants and babies will have crib mattresses and twins. Generally, crib mattresses are 27 by 52 inches. When kids are this young, you’ll want to determine whether you want to invest in a more expensive mattress. They won’t be used for very long as the child grows. However, if you plan on having more kids or sharing it with a friend or relative who’s expecting, it may be worth investing in a higher-end mattress to ensure it lasts until you’re ready to use it again.
Additionally, it’s crucial to research the materials used in crib mattresses because babies need breathable beds for various reasons.
Mattress Sizes and Your Needs
When you’re looking for a new mattress, it can be tricky to navigate which size is best for you or your family. While you’re shopping, ensure that the mattress size will work with your room space and your height. If you’re buying for a child who’s still growing, consider having them shop with you so you can determine together if it makes sense to buy a twin, XL twin, or full, depending on their sleep needs and how long you expect them to “fit” that mattress size.