If you’re shopping for a new bed, one of the most common questions is what size is a queen mattress in inches. Knowing the exact dimensions is the first step to ensuring it fits your room and meets your needs.
A standard queen mattress measures 60 inches wide by 80 inches long. That gives a single sleeper plenty of room to spread out, and it’s a comfortable fit for two adults, making it the most popular mattress size sold today. But there’s more to consider than just the numbers on a tape measure. Let’s look at everything you need to know.
What Size Is A Queen Mattress In Inches
The definitive answer is 60 inches in width and 80 inches in length. This is the standard across the United States and Canada for a standard queen mattress, sometimes called a “full queen.”
To visualize it, that’s 5 feet wide by 6 feet, 8 inches long. It offers 4,800 square inches of sleeping surface. Compared to a full mattress (54″ x 75″), a queen gives you an extra 6 inches in width and 5 inches in length, which is a significant upgrade for couples.
Comparing Queen Mattress Dimensions to Other Sizes
It’s helpful to see how a queen stacks up against other common sizes. This comparison can prevent the common mistake of buying a bed that’s too small or too large for your space.
- Twin: 38″ x 75″. A queen is 22 inches wider and 5 inches longer.
- Twin XL: 38″ x 80″. Same length as a queen, but much narrower.
- Full/Double: 54″ x 75″. A queen is 6 inches wider and 5 inches longer.
- King: 76″ x 80″. A king is 16 inches wider than a queen, but the same length.
- California King: 72″ x 84″. A Cal King is narrower but longer than a standard queen.
Room Size Recommendations for a Queen Bed
Just because the mattress fits in the room doesn’t mean the room fits the mattress. You need space to walk around and for other furniture. A cramped room can feel uncomfortable, no matter how comfy the bed is.
Interior designers typically recommend a minimum room size of 10 feet by 10 feet for a queen bed. This allows for:
- The bed frame (which is often 2-5 inches wider/longer than the mattress).
- Nightstands on either side.
- At least 24 inches of walking space on the sides and foot of the bed.
- Space for a dresser or other furniture.
In a smaller room, like 9′ x 9′, a queen might still work if you use a simple bed frame without a footboard and opt for wall-mounted nightstands. Always measure your room carefully before you commit.
How to Measure Your Room for a Queen Mattress
- Clear the area where the bed will go.
- Using a tape measure, find the length and width of the floor space.
- Mark the planned bed location with painter’s tape on the floor, outlining the full dimensions of the bed frame (add at least 2 inches to mattress dimensions for the frame).
- Ensure there are outlets where you need them for lamps and phone chargers.
- Don’t forget to measure doorways, hallways, and stairwells to ensure the mattress can be delivered!
Queen Bed Frame and Headboard Dimensions
The mattress isn’t the only thing with size. The bed frame and headboard add to the overall footprint. A typical queen bed frame will extend slightly beyond the mattress.
Most queen headboards are between 60 to 65 inches wide. Footboards, if you have one, will be similar. Platform beds or those with substantial side rails might make the entire structure 62 to 63 inches wide and 82 to 83 inches long. Always check the manufacturer’s specifications for the exact “overall dimensions.”
Special Queen Mattress Variations
Not all queens are created equal. While the standard 60″ x 80″ dominates the market, you might encounter a couple of special types.
- Olympic Queen: This is a slightly wider variant at 66 inches wide by 80 inches long. It’s not as common, but it offers a nice middle ground between a standard queen and a king.
- RV Queen/Short Queen: Designed for recreational vehicles and campers, these measure 60 inches wide by 75 inches long. They are shorter than a standard queen to fit in compact spaces.
- Split Queen: This is two separate mattresses, each 30 inches wide by 80 inches long, placed side-by-side on a specialized bed frame. They are perfect for adjustable bases where each sleeper can control their own side.
Choosing the Right Foundation for Your Queen Mattress
A good foundation is crucial for support and longevity. Your queen mattress needs proper support from below.
You have several good options:
- Box Spring: The traditional choice. It elevates the bed and provides a firm, even surface. Ensure you get a queen-specific box spring.
- Platform Bed: These have a built-in slatted base, eliminating the need for a box spring. The slats should be no more than 3 inches apart for memory foam mattresses.
- Adjustable Base: These allow you to elevate your head or feet. They are sized specifically for queen mattresses and are a great choice for those with acid reflux or circulation issues.
- Bunkie Board: A thin, solid platform that sits on a bed frame to provide support if the slats are too wide.
Sheets, Bedding, and Accessories for a Queen
Buying the wrong size sheets is a frustrating experience. Queen-sized bedding is designed specifically for the 60″ x 80″ dimensions.
When shopping for sheets, look for “Queen” or “Standard Queen” on the label. Fitted sheets should have pocket depths to match your mattress thickness (e.g., 12″, 15″). Common mattress depths today range from 10 to 16 inches, so measure your mattress height first.
Other queen-sized accessories include:
- Mattress protectors and pads
- Comforters and duvets (queen sizes are typically around 86″ x 86″ to 90″ x 90″)
- Bed skirts (sometimes called dust ruffles)
- Electric blankets
Pros and Cons of a Queen Mattress
Is a queen the right choice for you? Let’s weigh the advantages and potential drawbacks.
Advantages of a Queen Mattress
- Ideal for Couples: Provides reasonable sleeping space for two adults without dominating a room like a king.
- Great for Single Sleepers: Offers ample room to stretch out for those who sleep alone.
- Widely Available: The most popular size means the most options for mattresses, frames, and bedding, often at competitive prices.
- Fits in Most Rooms: It’s versatile enough for master bedrooms, guest rooms, and larger apartments.
Disadvantages of a Queen Mattress
- May Be Too Small for Some Couples: If either partner is very tall or moves a lot, 60 inches of shared width can feel cramped.
- Not Ideal for Co-Sleeping: Adding a child or pet to the bed can make it feel very crowded quickly.
- Less Luxurious Space Than a King: For those who prioritize maximum personal sleeping space, a king is the better (but more expensive) option.
Who is a Queen Mattress Best For?
A queen mattress is a fantastic fit for a wide range of sleepers. Consider it if you fall into one of these catagories:
- Couples in a standard-sized master bedroom.
- A single adult who appreciates extra space to move.
- Guest room setups, as it accommodates single guests or couples comfortably.
- First-time bed buyers or those furnishing an apartment, due to its balance of size and affordability.
FAQs About Queen Mattress Sizes
Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions.
Is a queen mattress big enough for two people?
For most couples, yes. It provides 30 inches of personal width per person, which is the standard recommendation. However, if one or both partners are larger or are very active sleepers, you might want to consider a king.
What is the difference between a queen and a full?
A queen mattress (60″x80″) is both wider and longer than a full mattress (54″x75″). The queen offers an extra 6 inches of width and 5 inches of length, which makes a noticeable difference for couples.
How much bigger is a king than a queen?
A standard king mattress (76″x80″) is a full 16 inches wider than a queen, while being the same length. That gives each person 38 inches of space, which is a significant upgrade for shared sleeping.
Can I use queen sheets on a full mattress?
No, they will be too big. Queen sheets are designed for a 60-inch wide mattress, and they will be loose and ill-fitting on a 54-inch full mattress. This can be a safety hazard as the excess fabric can bunch up.
Do two twin beds equal a queen?
No. Two standard twin mattresses (38″x75″) placed side-by-side equal 76 inches wide by 75 inches long. This is wider but shorter than a queen (60″x80″). Two Twin XL mattresses (38″x80″), however, do equal a standard king size (76″x80″).
Delivery and Setup Considerations
Getting your new queen mattress into your home can be tricky. Planning ahead saves a lot of stress.
Always measure your path from the street to the bedroom. Check for tight corners, narrow stairwells, and low-hanging light fixtures. Many modern mattresses come compressed in a box, which makes them easier to maneuver, but traditional innerspring queens are large and heavy. Professional delivery is often worth the cost to avoid injury and ensure setup is done correctly.
Making Your Final Decision
Choosing a mattress size is a personal decision with practical implications. The queen mattress’s popularity is no accident—it hits a sweet spot between spacious comfort and efficient use of room space.
Before you buy, spend time lying on mattresses in store if possible. Lie down for at least 10-15 minutes in your typical sleeping position. If you share the bed, both partners should test it together. Remember that the right size is just as important as the right feel. With the standard dimensions of 60 inches by 80 inches, a queen mattress provides a versatile and comfortable solution for countless sleepers, making it a reliable and excellent choice for your home.