Short Queen Vs. Queen: Choosing the Right Mattress Size for Your Needs
- Short Queen mattresses are 5 inches shorter than standard Queens, perfect for RVs and campers, providing the same width but in a more compact size.
- Short Queen mattresses generally cost between $600 to $1,500, whereas standard Queens are priced between $1,000 to $2,000, offering a more budget-friendly option.
- While Short Queens fit smaller spaces and are easier to transport due to their lighter weight, standard Queens accommodate taller individuals and are more widely available with matching accessories.
When choosing the right mattress size, most people are familiar with the standard queen size. However, there is another variation of this classic size known as the short queen, also referred to as the RV queen or camper queen. This mattress shares the same width as a standard queen but is five inches shorter, perfect for compact spaces like RVs and campers. In this article, we will compare the short queen and the standard queen mattresses, highlighting their differences, pros and cons, and which one might best fit your needs.
Size Matters: The Differences Between Short Queen and Queen Mattresses
The most apparent difference between the short queen and the standard queen mattresses is their size. While both mattresses are 60 inches wide, the short queen is five inches shorter than the standard queen. A typical queen mattress is 60 inches wide and 80 inches long, whereas a short queen measures 60 inches wide and 75 inches long. This difference in length translates to a variation in the total sleeping surface area, with the standard queen offering 4,800 square inches and the short queen providing 4,500 square inches.
Price: Comparing the Cost of Short Queen and Queen Mattresses
Price is another vital factor to consider when choosing a mattress. Generally, the shorter length of the short queen mattress means that it requires less material, making it more affordable than the standard queen. On average, a short queen mattress falls within the price range of $600 to $1,500, while a standard queen mattress is usually priced between $1,000 and $2,000. It’s important to note that mattress prices can vary depending on features, manufacturing, and materials used.
Weight: Lighter or Heavier?
The shorter length of the short queen also means that it is lighter in weight compared to the standard queen. While the weight of a mattress depends on the materials used, the short queen is generally about 25 pounds lighter than the standard queen. This lighter weight can be beneficial when it comes to transportation, especially for those who frequently move or rearrange their rooms.
Pros and Cons: Short Queen vs Queen Mattresses
Let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of both the short queen and the standard queen mattresses.
Short Queen Bed Pros
- Fits into smaller spaces: The shorter length of the short queen makes it perfect for smaller areas such as RVs and campers.
- Great for unique room layouts: If you have a bedroom with a non-standard layout, the short queen can be a good option as it can fit into unconventional spaces.
- Easy to transport: The lighter weight of the short queen makes it easier to transport, making it ideal for those who frequently move or travel.
Short Queen Bed Cons
- Can be uncomfortable for taller individuals: The shorter length of the short queen may pose a problem for taller people, as they might find themselves hanging off the edge of the mattress.
- Limited availability: Short queen mattresses are not as typical as standard queen mattresses, so you may have difficulty finding a specific mattress feel or material in this size.
- Finding sleep accessories can be challenging: Since the short queen is a unique size, finding matching sleep accessories such as sheets, bed frames, and mattress toppers can be more difficult compared to the standard queen.
Queen Bed Pros
- Accommodates tall individuals: The standard queen mattress provides extra length, making it more comfortable for taller people.
- Easy to find: The standard queen is the most common mattress size, making it widely available at major mattress retailers.
- Suitable for couples: The spacious dimensions of the queen mattress make it ideal for couples, providing enough space for two adults to sleep comfortably.
Queen Bed Cons
- Heavier weight: The standard queen mattress is, on average, about 25 pounds heavier than the short queen, making it more challenging to transport and potentially increasing fuel consumption in RVs or campers.
- Higher price range: Despite having the same width as the short queen, the standard queen mattress is generally more expensive, so it may not be a good choice for those on a tight budget.
- May not fit in all spaces: Some RVs or campers may not have enough room to accommodate the length of a standard queen mattress.
Which Mattress Size is Best for You?
Now that we’ve covered the benefits and disadvantages of both the short queen and the standard queen mattresses let’s explore some factors to consider when choosing the best mattress size for your needs.
Uses
The short and standard queen mattresses can comfortably accommodate two adults. However, the standard queen may provide better legroom if you are over six feet tall. Additionally, if you like sleeping with a pet, the standard queen may offer more space for a small pet to join you. Remember that the short queen might not have enough room at the end of the bed for a pet.
Room Size
The short queen is a better fit for smaller living spaces, such as RVs and tiny homes, as it requires a minimum room size of 9.6 by 10 feet. On the other hand, the standard queen needs a slightly larger room, with a minimum size of 10 by 10 feet. Consider the available space in your room or RV when deciding on the mattress size.
Accessories
If convenience is a priority for you, the standard queen is the way to go. It is a standard size and can be easily paired with matching sleep accessories such as sheets, bed frames, comforters, and mattress toppers. However, finding accessories for the short queen might be more challenging due to its unique size.
Budget
If you are on a budget, the short queen may be a more cost-effective option while still providing the same width as the standard queen. However, be sure to check for any deals or discounts available, as mattress prices can vary. Consider exploring budget-friendly mattress options or utilizing coupons to get the best price.
Comfort
Comfort is subjective and depends on your body type and sleep position. If you are taller than six feet or tend to gravitate towards the end of the bed during the night, the short queen may not provide enough length for you to sleep comfortably. Additionally, remember that finding a specific type of mattress, such as one designed for back pain relief, might be more challenging in the short queen size.
Other Non-Standard Queen Mattress Sizes
In addition to the short queen and the standard queen, other non-standard queen mattress sizes are available in the market. These include the California queen and the Olympic queen.
California Queen
The California queen mattress is the same length as the standard but four inches wider. Its dimensions are 60 inches wide and 84 inches long, offering extra width for those who prefer more space while sleeping.
Olympic Queen
The Olympic queen mattress is the same length as the standard queen but is six inches wider. It measures 66 inches wide and 80 inches long, providing additional width for enhanced comfort.
Here is a quick comparison of the various queen mattress sizes:
| Mattress Size | Dimensions (inches) |
|---|---|
| Standard Queen | 60 x 80 |
| Short Queen | 60 x 75 |
| California Queen | 60 x 84 |
| Olympic Queen | 66 x 80 |
If you have specific space or body type requirements, these alternative queen mattress sizes might be worth considering.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does short queen mean?
A short queen is a queen-sized mattress that is five inches shorter than the standard queen size, making it a suitable choice for smaller spaces such as RVs and campers.
What size is a short queen RV bed?
A short queen RV bed measures 60 inches wide and 75 inches long, providing a compact and comfortable sleeping surface for those on the road.
Can I put a regular queen mattress in my RV?
Whether you can use a regular queen mattress in your RV depends on the available space in your RV. A standard queen mattress typically requires a minimum room size of 10 by 10 feet to fit comfortably.
Is an RV queen the same as a queen?
No, an RV queen is not the same as a standard queen. An RV queen mattress is five inches shorter than the standard queen size.
Will a short queen fit on a queen bed frame?
Yes, a short queen mattress can fit on a queen bed frame, but there may be some extra space on the frame as the mattress will be slightly smaller. This may cause the mattress to shift as you move during the night.
Conclusion
When choosing between a short queen and a standard queen mattress, it’s essential to consider your specific needs and preferences. The short queen is ideal for smaller spaces and offers cost savings, while the standard queen provides extra length and is more readily available. Consider factors like your height, room size, budget, and sleeping preferences to make an informed decision. Remember to explore alternative queen mattress sizes if they suit your requirements better. Happy mattress shopping!
