Bedding Size Guide: How to Find the Perfect Fit Every Time
We’ve all been there: you buy a new set of sheets, excited for a bedding refresh, only to find that the fitted sheet is a struggle to get on the mattress or, even worse, the duvet cover is too small for your comforter. Finding the right fit for your bedding can be frustrating, especially with all the different sizes and styles on the market. But it doesn’t have to be a guessing game. This simple guide will demystify standard mattress and bedding dimensions, helping you find the perfect fit every time.
Standard US Mattress Sizes: A Quick Reference
The first step to finding the right bedding is knowing your mattress size. Here are the standard dimensions in the US.
- Twin: 38" x 75" (97 cm x 191 cm) - Perfect for children's rooms or small spaces.
- Twin XL: 38" x 80" (97 cm x 203 cm) - The go-to for college dorm rooms.
- Full / Double: 54" x 75" (137 cm x 191 cm) - A good option for a single adult or a teen.
- Queen: 60" x 80" (152 cm x 203 cm) - The most popular mattress size, great for couples.
- King: 76" x 80" (193 cm x 203 cm) - Offers the most space for two people.
- California King: 72" x 84" (183 cm x 213 cm) - Longer and narrower than a standard King, ideal for taller individuals.
The Crucial Difference: Deep Pocket Sheets
Once you know the length and width of your mattress, there’s one more measurement you can't forget: the depth, or height. A standard fitted sheet is designed to fit a mattress up to about 12 inches deep. But with today’s pillow-top, memory foam, and extra-thick mattresses, a standard sheet often won't fit.
That's where deep pocket sheets come in. These sheets are specifically designed for mattresses that are 15 inches deep or more. Before you buy, a quick measurement of your mattress’s depth can save you from a lot of frustration.
A Note on Duvets and Comforters
While sheets are designed to fit your mattress precisely, duvet covers and comforters are typically a bit larger to ensure they hang over the sides of the bed, providing ample coverage and a cozy look. When shopping for a duvet cover, simply match it to your mattress size (e.g., a King duvet cover for a King bed).
Here are the general dimensions for duvets and comforters:
- Twin/Twin XL: 68" x 86" (173 cm x 218 cm)
- Full/Queen: 90" x 90" (229 cm x 229 cm)
- King/California King: 104" x 90" (264 cm x 229 cm)
Pillowcase Sizing Demystified
Just like with mattresses, pillows and pillowcases also have standard sizes. Most people use a Standard (20" x 26") or Queen (20" x 30") pillowcase. If you have a King-sized bed, you’ll want a King (20" x 36") pillowcase to match the larger pillow size and balance the scale of your bed.
How to Measure Your Mattress for a Perfect Fit
If you're not sure what size your mattress is, it’s easy to find out.
- Measure the Width: From left to right.
- Measure the Length: From top to bottom.
- Measure the Depth: From the bottom seam to the top seam of the mattress (without any bedding on it).
With these three numbers, you can confidently choose sheets and duvet covers that will fit your bed like a glove.
Conclusion: Shop with Confidence
Navigating bedding sizes can be confusing, but it doesn't have to be. By understanding the standard mattress dimensions and, most importantly, measuring the depth of your mattress, you can eliminate the guesswork. Take a few minutes to check your measurements, and you’ll be on your way to a perfectly made bed that looks great and stays put.
Ready to find your perfect fit? Browse our collection and use our size guide to make the right choice today!