What Is the Size of a Full Bed?

February 20, 2023 | Casper Editorial Team

In a perfect world, finding the right bed would be like plucking a perfect four-leaf clover: you’d know it when you see it. While finally discovering the right mattress size can sometimes feel just as serendipitous, you’ll likely also have to consider more practical factors along the way—like your budget, your sleeping habits, and what bed size you need. You may even find yourself studying a mattress size guide and wondering, what are the dimensions of a full-size bed?

It’s your lucky day—we have all the answers you need to that question and more.

Typically measuring 54 inches wide by 75 inches long (157 x 191 cm), a full bed can be a versatile choice that works well in various  living situations, whether it’s a studio apartment or a child’s bedroom. The mattress dimensions of a full-size bed have plenty of advantages, like fitting well in small spaces or allowing you to have more space in your room for other things like chairs, tables, and rugs. 

If you’re wondering whether a full bed is the right mattress size for you, we’ve compiled a detailed guide to help you navigate the mattress-buying process, including how to choose the proper sheets and bedding for the mattress of your choice. 

Is a Full Bed Different from a Double Bed?

In a nutshell, no—the size of a full bed is the same as a double bed. A double bed is the name often used in Europe to refer to a full-size bed. Despite their name differences, both mattresses are 54 inches by 75 inches. 

Full beds are sometimes called double beds because they can sleep two people. The name makes sense compared to a twin bed, which generally sleeps one (unless you perform some Tetris-like maneuvering). 

Who is a Full Bed Good For? 

While a full bed was the standard for most couples until the mid-twentieth century, most people now might prefer a little more personal space and comfort, opting for a queen or king mattress instead. 

If you want enough sleeping space to sprawl across your bed like a starfish, a full bed is a good option for a single sleeper or child. That said, if a full-size bed is the only option due to space constraints or other factors, it can still work for some couples. 

A full-size bed can allow for more cuddle time for couples who like to sleep close together. For couples who don’t prefer this closeness, it can still be a good option if each of you remains on your side of the bed. After all, for most of modern mattress history, couples slept in beds of this size or smaller. 

Advantages of a Full Bed

A mattress should be uniquely suited to your lifestyle. A bed can be one of your most important purchases, as it’s where you will spend a significant portion of the nighttime hours (and possibly daytime hours, if you’re prone to afternoon napping). 

Depending on your unique sleeping needs and preferences, a full bed can offer several benefits:

  • Saves space – A full bed can be a great choice in smaller rooms or shared living spaces. Its compact size will also allow you to showcase other furniture in your space, like that handcrafted vintage armoire or collectible velvet armchair you’ve grown so fond of. 
  • More intimate – A full bed can be a splendid choice for couples who like to sleep close together. This smaller-sized mattress can create a cozy sleeping space that encourages lots of cuddles. 
  • Easy moving – If you move often (and take your mattress with you), a full bed can be an excellent choice. These smaller mattresses are much easier to maneuver down steep stairs and through tight doorway.

How to Dress a Full Bed

If you decide to purchase a full bed, choosing the right sheets and bedding for your new bed can be an exciting experience. With a myriad of choices to choose from – including sheet color, material, and style—you have the power to create an inviting and stylish sleep environment. 

To choose the right bedding that fits your comfort and style needs, we’ve made a list of a few things to consider: 

  • Material – Common bedding materials include cotton, linen, silk, flannel, microfiber, bamboo, or polyester. Consider your personal preferences when choosing this important factor, as certain materials may be more soft, breathable, or affordable than others. 
  • Quality – High-quality bedding can provide more comfort as you sleep and will be made from more durable materials than their lower-quality counterparts. 
  • Breathability – Depending on your climate (and how many other people or pets share your sleeping space), you want to ensure your sleeping temperature doesn’t prevent sweet slumber. Consider buying lightweight and breathable sheets if you live in a a 

warmer environment. Likewise, if you live in a colder climate, consider buying heavier sheets to keep you warm.

  • Size – If you have a full-size mattress, you should make sure you have sheets that properly fit its bed dimensions. Standard sheet sizes for full or double beds will be 54 inches wide by 75 inches long, just like the mattress itself. However, a duvet cover will range from 80 to 90 inches wide by 89 to 94 inches long.

Get a Full Night’s Rest with Casper

A full-size mattress, also known as a double bed, provides mid-sized comfort for a single sleeper and couples alike, primarily when constructed with breathable materials that provide long-lasting support.

At Casper, you can sleep soundly on memory foam mattresses—of all sizes—including a twin, full, queen, and king size. And we’ve got you covered with duvets, quilts, blankets, and throws to help you sink into a sweet slumber each night. 

Sources: 

  1. Sleep Foundation. Mattress Sizes. https://www.sleepfoundation.org/mattress-sizes 
  2. Sleep Foundation. Bed Sheet Sizes. https://www.sleepfoundation.org/bedding-information/bed-sheet-sizes