Twin XL beds are a popular choice for some specific situations and spaces, such as college dorms and guest rooms. But how big is a twin XL, really?
This article will break down everything you need to know about twin XL bed sizes, including their dimensions, pros, and cons. We’ll also compare them to other bed sizes, especially the standard twin, to help you decide if a twin XL is the right fit for you.
When choosing a bed, there are a few key factors to keep in mind: the size of your room, your height, your budget, and what kind of bedding you’ll need. We’ll cover all of these aspects to help you make an informed decision.
Twin vs. Twin XL: A Detailed Comparison
The main difference between a twin and a twin XL mattress is in the length. Here’s a more detailed look:
Dimensions: The Key Difference
- Twin mattress: 38 inches wide x 75 inches long. Twin mattresses are great for kids and smaller adults and fit nicely in smaller bedrooms.
- Twin XL mattress: 38 inches wide x 80 inches long. The extra 5 inches of length makes this mattress a good choice for taller folks. Twin XL mattresses are a very common choice in college dorms.
Pros and Cons of Twin Beds
- Pros: Twin beds are generally more affordable than twin XLs. They also fit more easily in smaller rooms, and bedding tends to be cheaper and more widely available.
- Cons: If you’re a taller adult, you may find a twin bed too short. Some adults may find them a little too cramped in general.
Pros and Cons of Twin XL Beds
- Pros: Twin XLs are a great choice for taller people. The extra legroom means you can stretch out and get comfortable. They’re also a popular choice for college dorms.
- Cons: Twin XLs are a little pricier than twin beds, and you may find bedding is a bit less common and a bit more expensive.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Twin XL Bed
If you’re thinking about buying a twin XL bed, here are a few things to keep in mind before you click “add to cart.”
Height and Comfort
The most important consideration is the height of the person who’ll be sleeping in the bed. The twin XL is a good choice for anyone over 6 feet tall.
Think about how the person likes to sleep. Do they stretch out? Curl up? Sleep position can also play a role. Side sleepers might like the extra length so their feet don’t dangle off the edge, and back sleepers might like the added space to move their arms around.
Room Size and Layout
To comfortably fit a twin XL bed, you’ll want a room that’s at least 80 square feet, or 11 feet by 11 feet. This will give you enough room to move around the bed.
Think about what other furniture will be in the room. You’ll want to make sure there’s enough space for dressers, desks, and walking areas. A good rule of thumb is to leave at least 24 to 27 inches of walking space around the bed.
Budget Considerations
Twin XL beds tend to cost a bit more than standard twin beds. While a twin bed might run you anywhere from $100 to $700, a twin XL could cost you $100 to $900.
Don’t forget to factor in the cost of bedding and accessories. Twin XL sheets and comforters might be a little pricier than standard twin sizes.
How big is a twin XL compared to other mattress sizes?
Mattresses come in a few standard sizes. Here’s a quick look at how the twin XL stacks up:
- Full: A good size for single adults who want more room to stretch out than a twin bed offers.
- Queen: The most popular size for couples.
- King: Provides tons of space for couples and even small families who like to pile into bed.
- California King: Longer than a regular king, making it a good choice for very tall people.
A full-size bed is wider than a twin XL, so you’ll have more room to sprawl. However, the twin XL is longer. If you’re tall, a full-size bed might feel too short.
Of course, if you have the space and the budget, going bigger than a twin XL will almost always give you more comfort and flexibility. Couples or anyone who shares a bed will definitely want at least a full-size mattress.
Bedding and Accessories for Twin XL Beds
If you’re buying for a twin XL, remember that size matters! Twin sheets won’t fit a twin XL mattress. Using the wrong size will be uncomfortable and the sheets will slip off.
Finding twin XL bedding is usually pretty easy. Many retailers carry twin XL sheets, comforters, and other necessities. College dorm supply stores are especially good places to look.
Twin XL bed frames come in tons of styles and materials. To maximize space, you might also think about storage options like under-bed drawers or risers to lift the bed higher.
Key Takeaways
The twin XL bed is a great choice for taller people, college students living in dorms, or anyone trying to maximize space in a small room.
When deciding on a mattress size, consider your budget, room size, height, and personal preferences.
If you need to save space and money but want a bed that’s long enough to stretch out on, a twin XL mattress could be a perfect fit.