What Size Is A Short Queen Mattress

If you’re shopping for a new bed, you might be wondering, what size is a short queen mattress? It’s a common question, especially for those with unique bedroom layouts. This specific size is a fantastic solution for many spaces, offering the width of a standard queen but in a shorter length.

Let’s clear up the confusion right away. A short queen mattress, sometimes called an RV queen or a mobile home queen, measures 60 inches wide by 75 inches long. That’s 5 feet by 6 feet 3 inches. It’s the same width as a regular queen mattress, but it is 5 inches shorter in length.

This makes it a perfect fit for spaces where a full-length queen just won’t work. We’ll cover everything you need to know, from who it’s best for to where to find sheets.

As we mentioned, the definitive dimensions of a short queen mattress are 60″ W x 75″ L. To put that into perspective, let’s compare it to other common mattress sizes.

Short Queen vs. Standard Queen

A standard queen mattress measures 60″ x 80″. So, the only difference is the length. The short queen is exactly 5 inches shorter. This might not sound like much, but it can be the difference between a mattress fitting in your RV or not.

Both sizes share the same width, so they offer identical sleeping space side-to-side. The trade-off is in legroom.

Short Queen vs. Full/Double

A full-size mattress (also called a double) measures 54″ x 75″. Notice the length? It’s the same 75 inches as the short queen. However, a full is 6 inches narrower.

This means a short queen gives you more width to spread out than a full bed, which is great for couples or solo sleepers who like extra space.

Short Queen vs. Twin XL

A twin XL mattress is 38″ x 80″. It’s long but narrow. Two twin XLs placed side-by-side actually make a standard king bed (76″ x 80″). A short queen is wider than a twin XL but shorter in length.

Who is a Short Queen Mattress Best For?

This unique size isn’t for everyone, but it’s a lifesaver for specific situations. Here are the primary users:

RV and Camper Owners: This is the most common use. Most modern RVs and motorhomes are designed with bunkhouse or bedroom spaces that can only accommodate a 75-inch long mattress. A standard queen is simply too long.
Mobile Home Residents: Many manufactured or mobile homes have smaller bedroom footprints. A short queen allows for a spacious queen-width bed while ensuring you have enough room to walk around it.
Small Bedroom Dwellers: If you have a compact bedroom in an apartment or older home, a short queen can free up crucial floor space. The saved 5 inches can make a room feel less cramped.
Guest Rooms: For a dedicated guest room that doubles as an office or craft room, a short queen provides comfortable sleeping for two without dominating the entire space.
Individuals of Average or Shorter Height: If you are under 6 feet tall, a 75-inch length is usually perfectly sufficient. It provides plenty of room to stretch out comfortably.

Potential Drawbacks to Consider

Before you commit, it’s wise to think about the limitations.

Length for Taller People: The most obvious drawback is for individuals over 6 feet. Your feet may hang off the end, which can be uncomfortable.
Sheet Availability: While not impossible to find, short queen sheets are less common than standard sizes. You’ll often need to shop at RV supply stores, online specialty retailers, or some bedding websites.
Mattress Selection: You won’t find as many models or brands offering short queen sizes compared to standard queens. Your options for firmness, material, and price point may be somewhat limited.
Resale Value: Because it’s a niche size, reselling a short queen mattress locally might be more challenging than a standard size.

Where to Buy a Short Queen Mattress

You typically won’t find these on the main floor of a regular mattress store. Here are your best bets:

RV Dealerships and Supply Stores: This is the most reliable source. They carry mattresses specifically designed for the RV market.
Online Mattress Brands: Many bed-in-a-box companies now offer “RV sizes” or will do custom cuts. Always check their size charts carefully.
Specialty Bedding Websites: Numerous websites cater to the RV and mobile home community and stock a variety of short queen mattresses, from memory foam to innerspring.
Custom Mattress Makers: For a higher budget, you can have a mattress made to your exact specifications, including the 60″ x 75″ dimensions.

Finding Bedding for Your Short Queen

This is one of the biggest practical challenges. Standard queen sheets will be too long. Here’s how to manage:

Buy “RV Queen” or “Short Queen” Specific Sheets: This is the easiest solution. Search for these exact terms. Many come in convenient sets that include a fitted sheet, flat sheet, and pillowcases.
Use Deep-Pocket Full Sheets: A clever workaround is to use a full-size fitted sheet (54″ x 75″) with deep pockets. It will fit the length perfectly and might stretch to fit the 60-inch width, especially if it’s made from a stretchy material like jersey knit.
Consider Separate Components: You might have better luck buying a short queen fitted sheet and then using a standard queen flat sheet. The flat sheet will just have extra material at the foot of the bed, which you can tuck in.
Mattress Protectors and Pads: Always ensure these are also labeled for short queen/RV queen size to get a proper, secure fit.

Measuring Your Space: A Step-by-Step Guide

Before you buy, accurate measurement is crucial. Here’s how to do it:

Clear the Area: Move any furniture or items away from where the bed will go.
Measure the Length: Using a tape measure, find the exact distance from the head of the space to the foot. Remember to account for any baseboards, trim, or slide-outs in an RV.
Measure the Width: Measure the space from one side to the other.
Consider Clearance: Don’t forget to leave room for walking, opening doors, and using furniture. Aim for at least 24 inches of walkway space on at least one side of the bed.
Check the Path: Also measure hallways, staircases, and doorways to ensure the mattress can actually be delivered to the room.

Types of Short Queen Mattresses Available

You’ll find several construction types, each with pros and cons for mobile or small-space living.

Memory Foam

Very popular for RVs because they are lightweight and conform to the body. They also resist motion transfer, which is great if one person moves around alot. However, some lower-quality foams can sleep hot.

Innerspring

Traditional coil mattresses offer firm support and good airflow. They can be heavier and may not be ideal for uneven RV platforms that flex during travel.

Hybrid

Combines coils with foam or latex layers for a balance of support and comfort. A good middle-ground option that is becoming more common in RV sizes.

Air Beds

Adjustable air mattresses in short queen sizes are available. They let you customize firmness on each side, which is a huge benefit for couples with different preferences.

Cost Comparison: Short Queen vs. Standard Queen

Generally, a short queen mattress may cost slightly more than a comparable standard queen. This is due to lower production volume and niche manufacturing. The price difference isn’t usually dramatic, but it’s something to budget for. You might pay anywhere from $500 to $2000 or more, depending on the brand and materials.

DIY and Adaptation Tips

In a pinch, you might consider adapting an existing mattress.

Cutting a Mattress: Some foam mattresses can be professionally cut down to size. This is generally only safe and effective with solid foam cores, not innersprings or complex hybrids. Never try to cut a mattress yourself unless you are certain of its construction.
Using a Mattress Topper: If you already have a full-size bed (54″x75″), you can’t make it wider. But you can improve comfort with a topper. For a short queen, you’ll need a custom-cut topper.

Making the Final Decision

Ask yourself these final questions before purchasing:

Who will sleep on it regularly, and how tall are they?
Is the primary use for an RV, mobile home, or small bedroom?
Have I accurately measured my space, including all clearances?
Have I budgeted for specialty bedding (sheets, protector)?
Am I comfortable with a potentially more limited selection of mattress models?

If the answers align with the strengths of a short queen, it can be the perfect space-saving solution without sacrificing the comfort of a queen-width bed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use a regular queen mattress in my RV?

Probably not. Most RV bedroom spaces are built to exactly fit a 75-inch long mattress. A standard 80-inch queen will be too long and will not fit properly, potentially blocking aisles or cabinets. Always measure your RV’s specific space.

Are short queen and RV queen the same thing?

Yes, for all practical purposes, “short queen” and “RV queen” refer to the same 60″ x 75″ mattress size. You might also see it called a “mobile home queen.”

Where can I buy short queen sheets?

The best places are online retailers (like Amazon, Walmart.com, or bedding specialty sites), physical RV supply stores, and sometimes camping goods stores. Always check the product dimensions before ordering to confirm they list 60″ x 75″.

Is a short queen good for a couple?

Yes, it can be. It offers the same 60-inch width as a standard queen, so two people have the same amount of horizontal space. The sucess depends on the couple’s height. If both partners are under 6 feet tall, the 75-inch length is usually comfortable.

What is the depth/thickness of a short queen mattress?

There is no standard depth. They come in various thicknesses, just like regular mattresses, typically ranging from 8 to 14 inches. When buying sheets, pay attention to the “pocket depth” to ensure they fit your mattress’s thickness.

Can two adults sleep comfortably on a short queen?

Comfort depends on personal space preferences and height. Two average-height adults can sleep comfortably width-wise. The main consideration is if either person is tall enough to need the extra legroom of a standard 80-inch length.

Do I need a special bed frame for a short queen?

You need a frame or foundation that supports the 60″ x 75″ dimensions. An adjustable base or standard queen frame designed for 60″ x 80″ will have an overhang at the foot, which isn’t ideal. Look for an RV queen frame or a customizable platform bed.

How much does a short queen mattress weigh?

Weight varies widely by material. A memory foam short queen is generally lighter (50-90 lbs) than an innerspring model (70-120 lbs). This is an important factor for RV owners, as weight impacts fuel efficiency.