Twin VS. Twin XL: What’s the Difference?
If you are looking to buy a new mattress, you may be wondering about the differences between twin and twin XL beds. Both mattresses are great options for individuals with limited space. Not to mention, these beds are an affordable option for growing children and teens. However, twin XL mattresses are 5 inches longer than a standard twin.
In this article, we’ll take a look at the difference between twin and twin XL beds. We’ll also weigh the pros and cons of each bed to make your decision a bit easier.
What’s a Twin Size Mattress?
Twin beds mattresses are the smallest beds on the market, measuring 38 by 74 inches. Often referred to as single beds, twin beds are typically a good fit for small children and teenagers. However, they are also a suitable option for single sleepers and are an excellent choice for guest rooms.
Twin mattresses are perfect for individuals with limited space. It’s best to place a twin bed in a room at least 7 feet by 10 feet. This way, you’ll have enough room to walk around. Not to mention, you can furnish your bedroom without worrying about crowding.
You can also use these mattresses like bunk beds. This is a great way to accommodate children who share a room without overextending your budget. Most individuals gravitate towards purchasing a twin bed because of its affordability. You can buy a quality twin mattress for as low as $200.
Some twin beds may include other sleep technologies like gel memory foam or latex, and you can expect to pay $800 or more for these beds. Twin beds are the most inexpensive mattress due to their compact size.
The Pros and Cons of a Twin Bed
Purchasing a twin size bed is an excellent option if you are a sleeper on a tight budget. Their compact size not only contributes to a low price, but it also makes them easier to move.
You can get a twin mattress up the stairs or around tight corners without struggling. This makes them a more accessible option for those with limited mobility and older individuals.
Twin beds are usually better suited for sleepers under 6 feet tall. If you are a taller sleeper, a twin may not provide enough legroom.
One common complaint amongst individuals with twin beds is that sometimes a sleeper’s arms and legs may hang off the sides of the mattress. For this reason, single sleepers should only use twin beds. Couples or co-sleepers should look at larger mattress sizes such as king or queen beds.
What’s a Twin XL Size Mattress?
Some manufacturers may offer twin xl beds to accommodate sleepers who want more legroom. Twin XL dimensions are 38 inches wide and 80 inches long. Though twin xl beds are the same width as standard twin beds, they offer 6-extra inches in length.
Like standard twin beds, twin XLs are also a fantastic choice for guest bedrooms and studio apartments. Twin XLs beds are a popular choice for college students since they are compatible with most dorm rooms.
Most colleges will provide you with the correct dimensions for you to pair with your bed frame to ensure the best fit.
The Pros and Cons of a Twin XL Bed
Twin XL beds offer extra legroom, providing taller sleepers with a more comfortable sleeping experience. These mattresses are the same length as queen beds, but their prices are a bit more affordable. You can purchase a twin XL bed for around $300.
It’s worth mentioning a twin XL bed is not available at all mattress retailers, so finding accessories for your bed may be difficult. Additionally, bedroom accessories like sheets, bed frames, and headboards are a bit pricier than a standard twin mattress.
Which Twin Size is Best for You?
Standard twin and twin XLs mattresses have a lot of similarities. If you are having trouble deciding between the two, you’ll want to keep a few things in mind. Twin XL mattresses are more expensive than standard twins, but they may offer more comfort for taller sleepers.
Both mattress types take up less space than queen or king beds, so you can place them in small bedrooms. We recommend placing a twin XL in a narrow room to accommodate the extra length. A twin XL bed should be placed in a room at least 9 by 9 feet, while a standard twin size mattress will fit comfortably in a room measuring 7 feet by 10 feet.
If you are looking for a more affordable mattress, it may be better to choose a standard size twin bed. These beds are usually $100 less than a twin XL, and they are available at most mattress retailers. Additionally, it is easier to find bedroom accessories to accommodate a twin mattress.
Other Mattress Sizes
Full
Full sizes are the next step up from a twin size mattress, featuring about 16 extra inches of sprawling space. Measuring 54 inches by 75 inches, the full size bed can accommodate most single sleepers. However, we do not recommend it for sleepers who want to share a mattress.
Queen
Queen size mattresses are wider and longer than a full mattress, measuring 60 inches by 80 inches. They are the most popular mattress size and can comfortably fit into most bedrooms.
King
King size mattresses are the widest standard size mattress, providing a surface that’s 76 inches by 80 inches. This is the best option for couples who want their personal space, although the drawback is that they need a larger bedroom at least 12 feet by 12 feet.
California King
California king size mattresses are deliberately longer than a traditional king bed to better accommodate taller sleepers. Measuring 72 inches by 84 inches, the Cal king bed can keep most people’s feet from dangling over the end.
Conclusion
If you are deciding between a twin and a twin XL mattress, you’ll want to consider your height. Taller sleepers will feel most comfortable on a twin XL bed since they offer additional legroom. However, it may be a bit harder to find bedroom accessories for these beds.
Twin beds are typically a more affordable option for individuals. You can also pair these beds with bunk beds, making them a good choice for small children who share a room.
Frequently Asked Questions
Twin XL mattresses are 6 inches longer than standard twin beds, so their sheets will not be compatible. As you shop for bedroom accessories, it’s best to choose items compatible with your bed size.
Choosing the incorrect sizing could cause your sheets to slide or pop off at night and cause disruptive sleep. We also recommend using tightly fitted sheets to keep them from slipping off your bed.
When you place two twin XL beds side by side, their dimensions will measure 76 inches by 80 inches (standard king size mattress). This is commonly referred to as a split king mattress.
Split king beds give couples the option to sleep independently from their partner. Couples are able to move around and sleep in their preferred sleeping positions without disturbing their partner’s sleep.
Twin beds are best suited for single sleepers. If you are someone who sleeps with a partner or small children, you’ll want to look at other mattress options. Some great choices for co-sleeping include queen, king, and California king size mattresses.
Most colleges provide twin XL mattresses to incoming students. Some dorms may even allow students to bring their mattresses from home to make their room a bit comfier. It’s usually best to contact your school’s resident director to find out the details on your school dorm policies.
Twin beds are not the best option for taller sleepers. We recommend purchasing a twin XL or full mattress if you are a taller sleeper. Twin XL beds offer additional length to keep your feet from hanging off your mattress. Full size mattresses are another great choice because they provide more room for sleepers to sprawl out.