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Single vs. Twin Bed Size: What’s the Difference?

Single vs. Twin Bed Size: What’s the Difference?

Mattress Comparison
Read Time: 14 minutes
FAST FACTS
  • The terms “twin” and “single” are used interchangeably to refer to the same mattress size, typically measuring 38 inches wide by 75 inches long, making it an ideal choice for small spaces such as dorm rooms or shared bedrooms.
  • Twin mattresses offer an affordable option, providing ample comfort for children or single adults with limited space, and they can be easily accommodated in small rooms, with the recommended space allowance being around two feet on three sides of the bed.
  • While the twin size remains a practical choice, individuals taller than six feet may find the twin XL, measuring 38 inches wide by 80 inches long, to be more suitable, and those seeking additional personal space might consider the full, queen, king, or California king mattress sizes based on their individual needs and room dimensions.

The smallest of the bed sizes, the twin mattress might not be the most glamorous or luxurious bed on the planet, but it still has its place. From college dorm rooms to multi-kid bedrooms to studio apartments, the twin bed is the king of small spaces.

However, you might’ve heard the term “single bed” or “single mattress” and wondered if there was a difference between the single and the twin. Below, we’ll talk about what those terms both mean and which bed size could be right for you.

Twin Mattress vs. Single Bed

Twin mattresses are actually the same thing as single mattresses. The two terms are interchangeable, though twin is the more commonly used term for a mattress that’s 38 inches wide by 75 inches long.

For instance, most of the time you’ll see twin size mattresses listed on mattress store websites rather than single size mattresses.

Twin Mattress Size Variations

Twin mattresses are versatile and come in a few variations to suit different needs, from accommodating taller people to maximizing space in small rooms.

Small Single

As its name implies, a small single is a narrower version of the standard twin mattress, measuring 30 inches in width and 75 inches in length. This size works well in very tight spaces but offers limited room to move, making it more suitable for specific purposes.

Some parents may choose a small single over a toddler bed for their young child. While toddler beds typically measure 27 inches by 52 inches, a small single provides a bit more room as the child grows. Unlike standard mattress sizes, small singles aren’t as widely available, so custom orders may be necessary.

Twin XL: Extra Length for Added Comfort

For taller sleepers, a Twin XL mattress—measuring 38 inches by 80 inches—provides the extra length needed to avoid feet hanging off the edge. Ideal for adults over six feet tall, this mattress size is frequently found in dorm rooms for its balance of compactness and comfort.

Twin XL mattresses are also commonly compatible with adjustable bed bases, unlike standard twin sizes. Those looking to compare regular twin and twin XL sizes in greater detail can find helpful resources in a Twin vs. Twin XL mattress guide.

Who Benefits Most from a Twin Mattress?

A twin mattress is a flexible choice that suits solo sleepers looking for a compact and budget-friendly option. They’re ideal for bedrooms as small as 7 feet by 10 feet (about 70 square feet) and typically cost between $300 and $600. This makes them popular for smaller rooms and for those trying to make the most of their space and budget.

In family homes, twin mattresses are often the next step for children moving from a crib or toddler bed. They’re frequently used in kids’ rooms, especially when paired with bunk beds to save space. Twin mattresses also work well in guest rooms, although some hosts might prefer a Twin XL for taller guests.

Almost every mattress type is available in a twin size, from foam options to innerspring designs. Those who enjoy a mattress that contours closely to the body may prefer memory foam. Latex foam provides a similar feel but is often more durable and eco-friendlier, though it comes at a higher price point.

What to consider when choosing a single or twin-size mattress 

Choosing the right mattress size requires careful evaluation of your room’s layout, the number and body size of sleepers, individual height needs, furniture fit, and budget considerations. By thoroughly assessing these aspects, you can create a sleeping setup that’s both comfortable and tailored to your lifestyle.

Let’s discuss each of these factors to simplify the mattress-buying process and help you make the ideal choice:

1. Best Room Size

Twin mattresses are best for either very small rooms or shared rooms with multiple beds. Generally speaking, it’s best to have about two feet of space around three sides of the bed.

Twins are only a little over three feet wide by a little over six feet long. That means you could stuff them in a room as small as seven by eight feet. If you want a chest of drawers or vanity to go along with the bed, eight by ten would be better.

You can squeeze a twin mattress into a tiny room. However, if you want to have two twin beds in the room, you’ll need a lot more square feet.

If you push both beds against a wall, you could have the same size room as you would with a king (10 by 10 feet). Those who want both the beds away from the wall will need to add an extra two feet on top of that (12 by 10).

Of course, you can accommodate two beds in a small space by using a bunk bed frame. Just be careful when choosing mattresses for a bunk bed that their weight won’t overload the frame.

2. Cost Range

Twin size beds are the cheapest standard size option. If size is no problem, budget shoppers can get a very high-quality mattress for as little as a few hundred dollars. Twin and twin XL sizes can put even hybrid and latex mattresses in reach for sleepers on a budget.

3. Ideal Sleepers

This is a great bed for kids or adults who don’t have a lot of space. A twin is one of the best mattresses for kids, providing an excellent alternative for a toddler bed because it allows tots to grow into their mattresses and won’t need to be upgraded for a long time (if at all). It’s also a good option for multi-kid rooms, either with both beds on the floor or bunk beds.

A twin mattress is also a good choice for single adult sleepers with limited space. If you’re sharing a room or living in a tiny apartment, a twin might not just be your best option for good sleep. It could be your only option.

4. Personal Sleeping Habits and Comfort Needs

When selecting a mattress, consider your personal sleeping habits. If you tend to move a lot during sleep or prefer a more expansive position, a twin mattress may feel too confining.

This can be particularly relevant for those who sleep on their back or side, where a wider surface might be necessary for comfort.
Additionally, sleep quality is often influenced by the space you have to stretch out or reposition. Those who sleep with a partner or a pet might also find a twin bed restrictive, as the limited width can affect both comfort and quality of rest.

Taking your specific needs and movement patterns into account can ensure that your mattress choice supports restful, uninterrupted sleep.

5. Height Requirements

Height is a significant factor in mattress selection. Standard twin mattresses are typically 75 inches long, which may be insufficient for taller individuals. If you or your child is over six feet tall, opting for a twin XL, which measures 80 inches long, can provide the necessary legroom.

This additional length helps accommodate growing children and ensures that the mattress remains usable as they age.
Not only does the extra length prevent discomfort, but it also allows for a more natural sleeping posture, minimizing the likelihood of awkward positions that can strain muscles or joints.

Ensuring adequate mattress length is essential for maintaining comfort over the years, particularly for those experiencing growth spurts or anticipating any changes in sleep patterns.

6. Mobility Needs

Mobility is another consideration, especially for those who frequently move or rearrange their living spaces.

Twin mattresses are generally lighter and easier to maneuver compared to larger sizes, making them a practical choice for those in rental situations or small apartments. Their portability allows for effortless adjustments in room layout.
Besides being easy to relocate, twin mattresses are also simpler to store, which is ideal for those who may need an extra bed occasionally but don’t want it occupying space full-time.

Whether for frequent movers, dorm rooms, or temporary housing, the flexibility of a twin mattress can make room transitions much smoother without sacrificing sleep comfort.

7. Future Needs and Room Versatility

Thinking about future needs can help guide your decision. If the mattress will be used in a guest room or as a daybed, a twin offers versatility for various setups.

Furthermore, if purchasing for a child, a twin or twin XL can provide a long-term sleeping solution, ensuring the mattress can grow with them rather than needing frequent replacements.
For those designing multipurpose rooms, a twin bed is an ideal choice as it can easily serve multiple functions. For instance, it can be transformed into a lounging or reading nook during the day.

Its adaptability helps optimize space, particularly in rooms where different activities take place throughout the day or in homes expecting to host guests.

8. Available Mattress Types

The market offers a variety of mattress types in twin sizes, including memory foam, innerspring, latex, and hybrid options. Each material offers different levels of support, pressure relief, and comfort, so it’s essential to explore which type best suits your needs.

Be aware that twin mattresses often have thinner comfort layers than their larger counterparts, which can affect overall comfort, especially for heavier sleepers.
Considering your preferred sleep feel—whether firm, plush, or in-between—can help guide your choice of material. Additionally, different types have distinct longevity and durability, so understanding how each one holds up over time will ensure your mattress remains supportive without early sagging or discomfort, especially if you rely on it daily.

9. Bed Frame Compatibility

Compatibility with bed frames is crucial when choosing a mattress. If you’re considering a twin mattress for a bunk bed, trundle, or loft bed, ensure that the mattress height and weight comply with the frame specifications to ensure safety.

Selecting a compatible mattress will help prevent any potential issues with the bed’s structural integrity.
Along with structural compatibility, checking frame aesthetics is helpful as it enhances room design.

Some twin frames offer additional features like storage drawers or headboards, which can add convenience and style to a room, especially in limited spaces. Ensuring that the mattress pairs well with the frame’s function and appearance can make the setup both visually cohesive and practical.

10. Budget Planning Beyond the Mattress

Budget considerations should extend beyond the mattress itself. Twin-sized bedding, including sheets, mattress protectors, and comforters, are typically more affordable than those for larger sizes.

However, if you opt for higher-quality materials or specialized accessories, the costs can accumulate. It’s essential to factor in these additional expenses to stay within your overall budget.

Some shoppers overlook expenses like bed frames, pillows, or seasonal bedding, which can impact the total cost significantly. Planning for these items upfront allows for a smoother budgeting process, ensuring that your entire sleep setup—from the mattress to finishing touches—meets both quality and budget expectations without surprises.

11. Room Aesthetics and Design

Finally, consider the room’s aesthetics. A single or twin-size mattress can help make a small bedroom feel larger due to its smaller footprint, allowing for more open floor space and additional furniture.

If you are setting up a multi-bed room, using two twin beds, either side by side or bunked, can create a coordinated and visually appealing layout, enhancing the room’s overall design.
With a twin bed, there’s often more freedom to experiment with room layout and incorporate storage solutions, decorative items, or a workspace that might otherwise feel cramped.

The right arrangement can transform a simple room into a well-organized, inviting space, whether it’s for a child’s room, a guest suite, or even a minimalist studio setup.

12. Size Variations

The twin XL is the same width as the twin, but it adds five inches of length. That makes it 38 by 80 inches. A small or narrow twin bed is 30 inches wide by 75 inches long. This size is too narrow to be comfortable for many adults. But it could be a good option for you if you have a teeny tiny space.

Pros and Cons of Twin Bed Size

Pros 

  • Space-Saving: Twin beds are compact (typically 38 x 75 inches), making them ideal for small bedrooms, dorm rooms, or guest rooms where floor space is limited.
  • Budget-Friendly: Twin mattresses and bed frames are often more affordable than larger sizes, making them great for budget-conscious buyers.
  • Easy to Move: Due to their smaller size, twin beds are lighter and easier to transport, making them convenient for temporary setups or frequent movers.
  • Ideal for Kids or Single Sleepers: Perfect for children or solo sleepers who don’t need much sleeping space.
  • Variety in Styles: Twin beds come in various styles, like bunk beds, trundles, and daybeds, which adds versatility, especially for children’s rooms.

Cons 

  • Limited Sleeping Space: Twin beds are too narrow for couples or people who prefer to sprawl while sleeping.
  • Not Ideal for Taller People: At 75 inches (6 feet 3 inches) long, it may not be comfortable for people over 6 feet. A twin XL (80 inches long) might be a better alternative for taller sleepers.
  • Limited Longevity for Kids: Kids may outgrow twin beds relatively quickly, especially as they grow into teenagers or adults.
  • Less Comfort for Restless Sleepers: People who move around a lot in their sleep may find the space restrictive.

Narrow Twin vs. Twin Mattress

The primary distinction between a narrow twin and a standard twin mattress is their width. While both types are 75 inches in length, the narrow twin is typically 5 to 6 inches slimmer than the standard twin, making it an ideal choice for more compact spaces.

Comparing Narrow Twin and Twin Mattresses

  • Space Optimization: A narrow twin takes up less floor space, which can be beneficial for smaller rooms.
  • Comfort Level: The extra width of a standard twin may offer slightly more comfort, especially for adults.
  • Versatility: Narrow twin mattresses are particularly suited to compact and multifunctional environments, fitting seamlessly into limited areas.

Advantages of a Narrow Twin Mattress

  • Space-Saving Design: Ideal for tight spaces like small apartments, dormitories, or guest rooms.
  • Affordable Option: Generally, narrow twins are more budget-friendly than standard twins.
  • Easy to Transport: Thanks to its compact size, a narrow twin mattress is simpler to move or relocate.

Where a Narrow Twin Mattress Fits Best

The versatility of a narrow twin mattress makes it suitable for a variety of settings.

  • Kids’ bedrooms
  • College dorm rooms
  • Small guest rooms
  • Temporary accommodations for guests
  • RVs and camping setups

The narrow twin mattress is an adaptable option for those who need to maximize their space without compromising on quality rest.

Other Standard Bed Sizes

In addition to the twin/single bed, there are five other standard mattress sizes to choose from. Your ideal choice depends on a combination of your individual needs, your room size, and how many people are sleeping in the bed.

Twin XL

Taller sleepers with smaller rooms will appreciate the 38 by 80-inch twin XL size mattress. Twin XL beds don’t take up that much extra space, but they’re more accommodating to sleepers over six feet tall.

If you want an in-depth comparison of twin and twin XL sizes, see our guide Twin VS. Twin XL Size Mattresses: What’s the Difference?

Full

The full or double bed is the perfect choice for single sleepers who need more personal space. At 54 by 75 inches, it will offer active sleepers under six feet tall extra room to roll around.

Full size mattresses also fill out larger rooms than twin and twin XL mattresses.  Despite their relatively expansive size, we only recommend full beds for single sleepers and not couples.

Queen

A staple of the guest room, the queen size mattress comes in at 60 by 80 inches. The queen bed is the most popular mattress size because it’s large enough to accommodate most couples but easier on the budget than king or California king mattresses. Plus, a queen mattress fits in most bedrooms while leaving space for other furniture.

King

The king size mattress (also called the standard or eastern king) is 76 by 80 inches.

The standard king mattress is the perfect size for couples who need the most space, though it’s important to make sure that

An Eastern king bed offers each partner the exact same amount of sleeping space as a twin XL mattress. King size beds also fills out large rooms like masters.

California King

The California king size mattress is a longer, narrower mattress than the king size mattress, coming in at 72 by 84 inches. The California king bed is the longest of the standard mattress sizes and is a better option for extra-tall sleepers or those with large master bedrooms.

FAQs

Is a twin size mattress suitable for an adult?

That depends on the adult. If you’re under six feet tall, an average 38 by 75-inch twin will probably work for you. If you’re over six feet tall, you’ll likely need to upgrade to the 80-inch long twin XL mattress to have enough legroom.

Single adults who are active or combo sleepers might find this mattress size doesn’t have enough width to accommodate their tossing and turning. Active single sleepers may want to consider an upgrade to either a full size bed (for those under six feet) or a queen size bed (those over six feet).

What if I’m too tall for a twin size mattress?

If you find your feet dangling over the edge of a twin, you’ll need an 80-inch mattress. Twin XL beds are the narrowest 80-inch bed. If you have a small space but need extra length, this may be the size for you.

Tall active sleepers may want to consider a queen bed if they have the space. The queen’s extra width will accommodate more tossing and turning. The tallest sleepers may need to go even longer, either with the 60 by 84-inch California queen or the 72 by 84-inch California king.

Is a Twin Bed Suitable for One Person?

Yes, a twin-size bed can be a good choice for a single sleeper. Twin beds typically offer enough space for children and most average-sized adults to move comfortably throughout the night. However, individuals who are over 6 feet tall or weigh more than 230 pounds may find a larger bed size more comfortable.

Why Is a Single Bed Referred to as a Twin?

The term “twin” originated from the use of these beds in pairs, such as in hotel rooms where two single beds were often provided as an alternative to a larger bed like a king or queen. Over time, “twin” became the preferred term within the mattress industry and is now widely used to describe this bed size. Though twin beds are still occasionally sold in pairs, single options are now common.

Can I use two twin mattresses to make a split king?

No. Standard twin mattresses are 38 by 75 inches long, while a traditional king mattress is 76 by 80 inches long. That means two twin mattresses will be wide enough to make a split king, but they won’t be long enough. A split king size mattress requires two twin XL mattresses and two twin XL bed bases for adequate width and length.

There are lots of reasons why you might want to make a split king. Partners who want to sleep in the same bed but need different firmness levels could both get the mattress firmness they want. Those with different adjustable base settings may also consider two twin XL bases and mattresses. Split king beds are also much easier to move than standard kings.

Can a Twin Mattress Fit a Full-Size Bed Frame?

While you could technically place a twin mattress on a full-size (double) bed frame, it may not be the most effective choice. Full-size frames are designed for larger mattresses, so a twin mattress may not be adequately supported or look proportionate on this frame. For the best support and aesthetic fit, it’s recommended to use a bed frame specifically designed for a twin mattress.

Will my kids grow out of their single beds?

It’s possible. Tall, lanky teenagers’ feet might start dangling over the bed sometime in high school, unless they have a longer mattress for teenagers. However, the height of the average human is under six feet. That means, statistically speaking, your kids may never need a bed longer than a twin.

Your own height is another good indicator of whether your child will outgrow their bed. If one or both parents are tall, you may be springing for a twin XL. If both parents are short, a twin XL likely won’t be necessary. It’s just a matter of genetics.

Is a twin or twin XL best?

That depends on your height and your room size. Taller people may not be comfortable on a standard twin, meaning they’ll need a twin XL no matter what. Shorter people can get away with a regular twin size mattress. And they may have no other option if their rooms are not long enough to take a twin XL.

One area where twin mattresses objectively beat twin XL mattresses is relocation. Twin mattress dimensions make moving them a little easier than moving a twin XL. The additional length of a twin XL can sometimes make getting around corners or up and down stairs more difficult. This is something you should consider if you move a lot.

Do Two Twin Beds Equal a King?

No, placing two standard twin beds side-by-side will not create a king-size bed. Standard twins are 38 inches wide and 75 inches long, while a king-size bed measures 76 inches in width and 80 inches in length. However, combining two twin XL (extra-long) mattresses can effectively create a king-size bed. Twin XLs have the same width as standard twins but are 5 inches longer, measuring 80 inches in length, making them a closer match to the dimensions of a king bed.

Bottom Line

The twin is an excellent bed for a variety of situations. From multipurpose guestrooms to studios to children’s rooms, these beds provide full comfort to most sleepers without taking up a ton of space.

Maybe the best part of a twin size mattress is it puts luxury mattresses in reach for shoppers on even the tightest budget constraints. Not bad for the humble little twin!

Dorothy Chambers is our in-house sleep expert and a firm believer in the benefits of a daytime nap. With a background in psychology, Dorothy is fully aware of the impact sleep has on our brain, mood, and overall well-being. In an effort to help readers lead happier, more productive, and healthier lives, Dorothy spends her time researching the best sleep habits to help you fall asleep, stay asleep, and wake up feeling rested.

Dorothy Chambers spent years studying clinical psychology before joining us to promote a deeper understanding of sleep, along with some cursory research into biology and physiology. She’s particularly interested in the effects that different sleep positions have on the body. Later on in her career, she plans on pursuing a doctorate degree in behavioral sleep medicine.

Dorothy wakes up at 7 a.m. every day after a full night’s rest to better tackle a full day of work. After a session of morning exercise, she catches up on the latest sleep news and research before writing. She’s a fan of watching academic lectures, listening to scientific podcasts, and testing new sleep theories firsthand. Dorothy Chambers has written dozens of articles in her tenure with Sleep Junkie.

Her work has been featured on Home & Gardens, House Beautiful, Real Simple, Apartment Therapy, CNBC, Bustle, Yahoo! Finance, Fox 17, and even AARP.org.

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