Full/Double vs. Queen Mattress
In this guide, we look into similarities and differences between full/double and queen sizes, to help you make a less stressful and more informed decision once you decide it is the time to get a new mattress.
In this guide, we look into similarities and differences between full/double and queen sizes, to help you make a less stressful and more informed decision once you decide it is the time to get a new mattress.
Picking up the right mattress for your bedroom can be stressful. You need to take several factors into account such as the size of your bedroom, your usual sleeping position, price, type of mattress, and whether you are sleeping alone or sharing your bed. Most mattresses today come in six standard sizes: twin, twin XL, full/double, queen, king, and California king. You can find and order some custom sized models, but these are the standard ones that you can find in almost any shop.
In this guide, we look into similarities and differences between full/double and queen sizes, to help you make a less stressful and more informed decision once you decide it is the time to get a new mattress.
| Size | Full/double | Queen |
| Standard width | 54” | 60” |
| Standard length | 75” | 80” |
| Bedroom size | Minimum: 8 ½’ x 10 ¼’
Maximum: 10 ½’ x 10 ¼’ |
Minimum: 9’ x 11’
Maximum: 11’ x 11’ |
| Price | $550 to $800 | $800 to $1200 |
| Sleeping arrangement | Single sleepers of average height who prefer some extra sleeping space | Single sleepers who prefer plenty of space, or couples that don’t need much space. |
Full size beds are usually 54 inches wide and 75 inches long. It is a middle between standard twin size that is 39 inches wide and 75 inches long, and queen size that is 60 inches wide and 80 inches long. It is most commonly used in commercial accommodations, such as dorm rooms, healthcare facilities, and double bed hotel rooms.
Pros of full/double size beds:
Cons of full/double size beds:
Queen mattresses are the most popular ones, and they account for 40% of all mattress sales. Queen is considered an industry standard, and the manufacturers often use this size for display and default prices on their promoting product pages. You can find hotel rooms with a queen size bed universally around the country.
Pros of queen size beds:
Cons of queen size beds:
There are several questions to ask yourself before deciding:
Are you a solo sleeper or do you share a bed with your partner?
This is very important when buying a new mattress. If you sleep alone, you need less space, so going for a smaller bed seems like a reasonable option. However, if you are sleeping with your partner, anything less than a queen is not suitable for couples. Even queen size is only right for those couples that don’t take too much space; otherwise, it might seem cramped.
You want to keep in mind that buying a new bed or a mattress is a somewhat long term investment. We change only a few beds in our lifetime, and the average lifespan of a mattress is somewhere around 7 to 8 years. Consider your lifestyle changes in the future, so even if you are a single sleeper at the moment, that can easily change. If you are frequently moving, you should consider getting a smaller size, as they are lighter and easy to move, and they can also fit in most bedrooms.
How much bedroom space do you have?
Whether you live in a small apartment or a large house, your bed should fit comfortably in your sleeping space. Other larger pieces of furniture can take up a lot of space in your bedroom, so if this happens to be the case, going for a smaller model might be appropriate. You also want to account the layout of the room, the position of the entrance, windows, closet doors, and if the bigger size doesn’t seem to fit with all of these factors included, go for the smaller one.
Even though it doesn’t seem like there is too much of difference between full and queen sizes, everybody with a smaller bedroom know how important those several inches can be. These are the standard mattress size and the appropriate square footage of a bedroom:
Do children or pets frequently share your bed?
Children can get scared during the night, and they might want to crawl up in your bed. If you are a pet owner, you know that your furry companions love cuddling up next to you until they fall asleep. Double size mattress means less room for everyone, so if you know your bed will be occupied, maybe a smart idea will be going for a queen size mattress. Children grow quickly, and cosleeping with them may become a little cramped. For everyone to get a good night sleep, you need a comfortable bed with enough space for everybody.
What is your usual sleeping position?
Sleeping position can be a huge factor when deciding between full and queen size mattress. Whether you prefer sleeping on the side, back, or stomach, your bed should provide you enough room to achieve this position and turn around if needed comfortably. If you are sharing a bed, consider their needs and sleeping position as well. You both might like to sprawl out, turn around and change positions during the night. In that case, extra width and length can be crucial for a good night’s rest.
Another factor to take into consideration is your body size. While double beds can support most people, some heavier individuals might have a problem. Also, keep in mind that if you are over 6’2” tall, you should go for a queen size so that your feet are not hanging from the bottom of your bed.
What is your sleeping budget?
For most shoppers, the decision usually comes down to the price. Double size models are generally $100 to $400 cheaper than queen size ones, so those on a tighter budget may go for this option.
Since mattress shopping is a long term investment, you shouldn’t settle down for a lower quality model. Start saving ahead of time, and search for retail sales around the holidays. You can also get a reasonable price on a less known brand without sacrificing quality. Once you’ve decided on what size you want, put the budget into an equation, and find the perfect mattress for both your needs and pockets.
Full/double size mattresses are suitable for single sleepers who are not over 6’2” tall, and like a little additional space that standard twin doesn’t provide. While they are not ideal for couples, they are perfect for guest rooms and temporary residential places such as motels and dorm rooms.
On the other hand, queen size beds are great for single sleepers who are a little bit taller, but not over 6’7”, and they require even extra sleeping space. They can also be a good fit for couples who like snuggling during the night and don’t mind a narrow sleep surface.
Of course, these are all subjective parameters, and the best way is to go to a shop and to check what size suits you best. Most of the retailers provide a free sleeping trial, where you can return your mattress if it doesn’t feel good during the initial trial period. The trial period can last up to 90 days for some manufacturers. Keep in mind that your bed should offer you excellent lumbar support and that it plays a huge role in musculoskeletal pain you might feel after resting inappropriately. Read up the online reviews, consider all of the mentioned factors, use that free trial period, and you’ll get your perfect mattress.
Dusan is a biologist, a science enthusiast and a huge nature lover. He loves to keep up to date with all the new research and write accurate science-based articles. When he’s not writing or reading, you can find him in the kitchen, trying out new delicious recipes; out in the wild, enjoying the nature or sleeping in his bed.
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