Picking the perfect mattress for your room can be a challenge. In your search for the perfect mattress, you might be considering twin vs. twin XL mattresses—especially if you’re looking to use a small space efficiently.
What’s the difference between a twin XL vs twin? The main difference between these two mattresses is their length—a twin XL is 5 inches longer than a twin.
But mattress shoppers should consider more than just size in their search for the perfect night’s sleep. This guide to the twin vs twin XL mattress debate will also break down mattress cost, potential good candidates for each mattress size, frequently asked questions about twin XL mattresses, and a comparison between these two popular sizes and other common mattress dimensions.
Twin vs twin XL dimensions are one of the only discrepancies between these two mattress types:1
While it might not seem like a massive difference in size, that additional five inches in length can make a world of difference, especially if you’re on the taller side. If you’re taller than 6 feet, you might be used to your feet dangling off a twin-size bed, but a twin XL bed could give significant extra room to stretch out.
However, another discrepancy between twin XL vs twin mattresses is cost. Because it’s a slightly larger mattress size, a twin XL will be slightly more expensive than a standard twin mattress. While some shoppers might not see the need to spend more on a mattress that’s only slightly larger, the extra cost may be worth it for some. That additional space can help you get a deeper, more restful sleep if you are taller person, provide additional comfort if you typically share a bed with your pet, or offer other benefits (which we’ll break down in more detail below).
But that doesn’t mean a twin XL mattress is right for everyone. So who are these different twin beds ideally suited for?
A standard twin-size mattress is 38 inches wide and 75 inches in length. Twin mattresses are the most commonly used mattress when it comes to bunk bed mattress size—so if you recently bought a bunk bed frame, you’ll likely need two twin mattresses to complete the piece.
But kids and bunk bed sleepers aren’t the only good candidates for a traditional twin mattress. And while parents of young children typically purchase twin beds once their kids graduate from crib-size mattresses, twin beds certainly offer other valuable applications.2 You might also opt for a twin bed if:
Plus, it might be significantly easier to find sheets for a standard twin bed at a big box store. Since twin beds are more common than twin XL mattresses, it might be easier to find bedding for the former if you don’t have time to order linens online.
But who should consider steering clear of the standard twin mattress?
Technically, this mattress can fit someone 6 feet 2 inches or shorter. However, most people don’t sleep with their heads right at the top edge of the mattress—they need a little extra room to get comfy.
If you’re around 6’2”, you’ll probably be too big for a twin bed. And, as you might imagine, while you may be able to cuddle in a twin, they’re not ideal for couples to share for sleeping. Although it is possible, it’ll certainly be a snug fit.
About 80% of the mattresses provided in typical college dorm rooms are twin XLs.3 But twin XL mattresses are useful in a variety of scenarios—in some, they might even be preferable to a standard twin or a larger bed. Let’s explore who might be a good candidate for the twin XL.
A twin XL mattress has the same 38-inch width as a standard twin mattress. However, its extra 5 inches of length extend the bed to 80 inches in total, meaning it can technically accommodate someone significantly taller than six feet.
This extra length could make all the difference in comfort, especially for a taller sleeper. This is why twin XL-size mattresses are often considered the ideal single bed for college students or adults. Other potential candidates for a twin XL mattress might be people:
All of that said, a twin XL might not be ideal for everyone. It takes up slightly more space than a standard twin—shorter sleepers who don’t need the extra length for comfort might not want to waste valuable inches in a room with limited floor space.
A twin XL mattress also may not be suitable for couples to share—remember, a twin XL is only longer than a standard twin, not wider.
And while a twin XL is one of the longer standard mattresses available—it’s the same length as both queen and standard king mattresses—it might still not be long enough for someone much taller than average. Sleepers bordering on seven feet tall might have to invest in a larger bed (like a California king, which is 7 feet long) or sleep diagonally (in which case a wider bed would provide optimal room).
If the added height of the twin XL mattress is appealing to you, you might have some questions about committing to a new bed size. Let’s break down a few twin XL FAQs.
While some twin flat sheets may fit a twin XL mattress with no noticeable difference, you may need to purchase fitted sheets specifically for a twin XL mattress. In many cases, a regular twin-size sheet is likely to slip off a twin XL bed. Casper’s twin sheets are available in twin and twin XL sizes so you can be sure of the right fit.
Generally speaking, there are two types of bed frames available on today’s market:
The latter are usually rack-style or made with an adjustable metal frame. As long as your modular twin bed frame can extend to the length of a twin XL, it should be able to accommodate one.
If your static twin bed frame can’t be extended, however, you’ll likely have to buy a new one if you choose to size up to a twin XL.
If you and your partner feel too crammed in a standard twin bed, you probably won’t be any more comfortable in a twin XL. As we mentioned above, these two mattresses are the same width.
But if you both like to cuddle and don’t fidget much during sleep, you could make a twin XL work for partner sleeping. Most couples would likely be more comfortable on a full mattress or larger.
If you’re ready to start mattress shopping, pay close attention to:
To put the twin vs twin XL dimensions into perspective, it’s helpful to compare them to other bed sizes. In doing so, you can find the perfect mattress size for your sleep preferences and bedroom.
While there may be some variants, the vast majority of mattresses will come in one of six standard mattress sizes:
If you are a couple or have a pet you like to sleep with, chances are you’ll want to consider a full vs. twin mattress. But what if there was a way to upgrade your sleeping situation with just two twins?
Do you and your partner have different mattress preferences?
If one person likes a stiff mattress and the other prefers a soft one, you may feel like you have to compromise on a middle-ground solution, or just go with either the firm or the soft. But there’s a better way to make both parties happy—one that doesn’t involve an uncomfortable compromise for both of you.
So, what’s the solution?
Instead of buying a king bed, you buy two twin XLs—each with the individual’s preferred mattress type. Then, you just push them together to accommodate both parties. As one, the mattress dimensions of two twin XLs are 76 inches by 80 inches, which would make your ultra bed the same length and width as a standard king size.
Or, if both partners are under 6 feet tall (and you’re looking to save a little money or space), you could also just push two standard twins together to make a large bed. Wondering what two twin beds make when pushed together? While the final product may not be as long as a king-size bed, it will have the same width.
Typically, twin and twin XL mattresses aren’t built to last. They’re often treated as an in-between bed meant for a child, a teenager, or a college student. Additionally, when it comes to bunk bed mattress size, twin and twin XLs are the most common. As a result, many twins are cheaply made and uncomfortable.
But they don’t have to be.
This is where Casper makes all the difference. Casper twin and twin XLs can deliver unbelievably nourishing sleep. The contouring memory foam gives you the perfect blend of comfort and support, ensuring a deep night’s rest. No matter which of our quality, durable models you choose, Casper twins are perfect for a kid’s room, a daybed, a college dorm room, or a studio.
Want to see for yourself? We offer an unbeatable 100-night free trial. If you don’t love your new twin-size mattress, just let us know within 100 days, and you’ll receive a full refund. We’re that confident you’ll love it.
Sources:
