Measuring the dimensions of your mattress
- Remove any sheets, blankets or pillows from your mattress. You will receive the most accurate measurements when your mattress has nothing on it. If you are measuring your mattress for sheets or duvets and you have a mattress cover lined with your mattress, leave it on when measuring.
- Measure from the left side to the right side of your mattress to get the width. Use a tape measure or cloth ruler to take your measurement. The mattresses can bend outwards sideways, so make sure you measure from the widest point on each side of the mattress.
- Write your measurements on a piece of paper as you go so you don’t forget them!
- Measure from the back to the front of your mattress to get the length. If your mattress is curved outwards at the back and front edge, measure from the farthest point at each edge.
- Measure from the bottom to the top of your mattress to get the height. If you are measuring to place sheets or duvets and have a mattress cover, include the top of the mattress in your measurement. Otherwise, measure only the height of the mattress itself.
Using your measurements
- Use the width and length of your mattress to determine its size. There are 6 standard mattress sizes: double, double XL, full, queen, king and California king. Knowing the size of your mattress will help you choose the bed that fits. Different mattress sizes are based on how wide and long a mattress is.
- Double mattresses are 97 cm wide and 190 cm long.
- Measure the doors and hallways in your home before buying a new mattress. This measurement is important because you need to know if the new mattress will fit through them when you bring it home. Choose a mattress wider than the smallest door or hallway you will need to carry it.
- Check for low suspension fixtures that may obstruct when moving your new mattress.
- Measure the width and height of any stairs you will use when moving the mattress.
- Measure a bed frame before you buy it to see if the mattress fits you. Bed frames are the same size as mattresses, but the size may vary between manufacturers. When you find a bed frame that you like, measure the width, height and length of the part of the bed frame on which your mattress will be placed.
- If the width or length is less than the width and length of your mattress, your mattress will not fit properly on the bed frame.
- If the width or length is less than the width and length of your mattress, your mattress will not fit properly on the bed frame.
What bed size is best for me?
If it’s time for a new mattress, you may be wondering what size is right for you. There are many things to consider, such as who will sleep in bed, how much space you will need, how much space there is in your bedroom, and any specific health or sleep problems you may be experiencing.
Buying a new mattress is not a one-size-fits-all situation, so it is important to evaluate your individual needs. If you have a history of back pain or sleep problems, you need to make sure you feel comfortable with your new mattress.
Here are some other important factors that you will want to consider when choosing a mattress.
Who will sleep in bed
Will you share the bed with a partner? Do your children or dogs usually sleep with you? These are questions you need to ask yourself before deciding on the size of the mattress.
If you are going to sleep with another person, think about how close you like to sleep and your usual sleeping positions. If you both love to stretch out while you sleep, the extra space offered by a King or California King mattress will be appreciated.
The size of your room
The space available to you should also be considered. A larger mattress will take up more space in your bedroom, so you should plan accordingly.
The size of your body
You need to consider your height and width when choosing a mattress. For those who want more space on both sides of their body, a full, queen or king bed will be the most comfortable.