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Mattress sizes can be confusing but there is none more confusing than a Single and a Twin. Are they the same? Are they different? Why are they called such? In this article, we cover all that and more so you can make an informed decision when you’re shopping for a new mattress.
Comparison chart: Twin vs Single mattress sizes
| Mattress Size | Single | Twin |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 38" x 75" | 38" x 75" |
| Can fit | Single sleeper | Single sleeper |
| Bed frame availability | Common | Common |
| Bedding availability | Common | Common |
| Mattress types | Innerspring, Hybrid, Latex & Memory Foam | Innerspring, Hybrid, Latex & Memory Foam |
There is literally no difference between a twin mattress and a single mattress. Both mattresses measure 38 inches in width and 75 inches in length.
Some twin and single beds may also be 39 inches in width, depending on the mattress brand.
But why the two very different and quite frankly, very confusing names?
Twin mattresses are called such because they were originally meant to be sold in pairs for use in hotel rooms and homes where sleepers would share a room but prefer sleeping on different beds – hence the term “twin”.
A single bed is called such because, well, it is only meant for one person – just like a twin bed.
Around the world, both terms are used interchangeably. But one thing’s for sure, they both mean the same size bed.
Dimensions of a single bed
A single bed measures 38 inches across and 75 inches long.
Some mattress brands may vary in width by just one inch so some single beds may have the dimensions of 39″ x 75″.
Always check the mattress tag in case you are shopping for a new single bed to ensure that the mattress you will be buying can fit into your current bed frame.
Dimensions of a twin mattress
A twin mattress (also) measures 38 inches in width and 75 inches in length.
Again, some mattress brands may offer twin beds that may vary in width by one inch, making the dimensions 39″ x 75″, just like some single beds.
There is a variation of the twin mattress that slightly longer than a standard twin bed and that is the twin XL mattress. Twin XL mattresses measure 38 inches in width and 80 inches in length, which makes them a good option for taller sleepers.
Who should choose a single mattress?
Just like its name implies, a single mattress is meant for only one person. Sure, you might be able to squeeze in an extra person but sleeping space will be severely limited (or practically non-existent), especially if both sleepers are adults.
A single or twin bed are most often used as a transitional bed for kids and toddlers who are ready to leave their cribs or cots.
Some people also use single beds in guest rooms since smaller beds help maximize living space, especially for those who live in a small house.
If you’re living on a limited budget, choosing a single mattress may also be more cost effective since most single mattresses are pretty affordable. Bed frames and bedding are also very easy to find and depending on the bedding brand, are also fairly inexpensive.
Although most single mattresses come in a wide variety of mattress types such as hybrids and memory foam, a person weighing well over 300 lbs. may not be able to get the support that they need from a smaller mattress.
Single bed pros
- Helps maximize living space
- Acts as a transitional bed for kids and toddlers
- Fairly inexpensive
- Bedding and bed frames are very easy to find
- Great for smaller guest rooms
Single bed cons
- Can only fit single sleepers
- May not be able to support heavier individuals
Who should choose a twin-size mattress?
Just like single beds, twin-size beds are only meant for single sleepers. A twin bed size mattress can fit both kids and adults alike as long as the bed is only used by one person.
Most bunk beds and trundle beds use twin-sized mattresses so if you really need more sleeping space (especially in the case of children’s rooms and dorm rooms), it might be wise to invest in a bunk bed and get two twin-size mattresses.
Again, just like single beds, twin mattresses can be had for a fraction of a price of bigger sized mattresses such as California king beds so if you’re still saving up for the mattress of your dreams, a twin-sized bed can be a more cost effective alternative.
Not only that, twin-size beds are a great jumping off point for young adults who are just starting out and living in studio apartments (definitely beats sleeping on a cheap air mattress on the floor, let me tell you that).
Compatible bed frames and bedding are also very easy to find and inexpensive, depending on the brand you choose.
If you’re a taller individual and would still prefer a twin bed, you might want to try looking into twin XL mattresses.
Twin bed pros
- Helps give extra floor space to those with limited room
- Great for adults and children alike
- Compatible bedding and bed frames are inexpensive and easy to find
- Can be used in bunk beds and trundle beds
- Twin XL mattresses are great for taller sleepers
Twin bed cons
- Can only fit a single sleeper
- May not be supportive enough for heavier individuals
- Some mattress companies may offer twin mattresses that are a bit more expensive
How to decide which mattress size is right for you
There are a few factors to consider when choosing the right mattress size for your needs and preferences. And we discuss them at length below but remember, it all boils down to what you need.
Room size
Both single or twin beds can fit into most rooms because of their smaller dimensions.
That said, placing a single bed in a master bedroom might make the bed look out of place so if you’re into aesthetics and symmetry when it comes to bedrooms, a Queen bed size might be better suited to a master bedroom. Read our guide to Queen vs. Twin mattresses for more info.
Sleeper size
As we’ve mentioned, both single and twin beds can accommodate adults and kids alike as long as they’re single sleepers. But those who are taller or heavier might need a bigger sized bed.
Sleeping with a partner
If you share a bed with a partner, a single or twin mattress isn’t going to cut it for you both. There won’t be enough sleeping space for two people on a twin bed.
Here’s an idea: two twin XL mattresses when put together make up a King-size bed or you can just get either a full or Queen-size bed.
Price
Both single and twin beds are fairly inexpensive although some mattress companies might offer twin-size beds that come at a premium price especially if they are made from materials such as natural latex or are hand-tufted and made to order.
Compatible bedding and bed frame
Compatible bedding and bed frames for both single and twin beds are pretty common and easy to find. Again, some brands may be more expensive than others so that is something to keep in mind.
Thickness
Mattress thicknesses vary depending on mattress brands although most brands these days offer different options for mattress thickness as well as firmness.
You also need to take your bed frame into consideration when choosing how thick your mattress should be.
If you already have a pretty high bed frame, choosing a thick mattress might make your bed too high. The same goes for low lying bed frames and thinner mattresses. Ideally, your bed’s height should reach your knees for it to be comfortable to get in and out of.
FAQs
Technically, two average-sized people can fit in a twin bed but for two people to be sleeping on one comfortably is another matter entirely. Twin beds are best for those who don’t share a bed.
A twin and a single bed are basically the same thing and share the same size and dimensions.
Conclusion
Both twin beds and single beds share the same size and dimensions, even though they are both called two different things. Hopefully, the confusion between a twin and single bed size ends here for you and you can make an informed decision on what mattress size is right for you.
Next step: Read our Nolah mattress review. If you’re looking for a new twin mattress, then Nolah is definitely a brand you should consider. We evaluated all of their different models and rated them on different factors including comfort, durability, and cooling capabilities so you can make your own decision.
Michelline loves nothing more than a cozy bed, with a stack of books at her side. She loves getting lost when she travels, can bake an entire British afternoon tea from scratch, is obsessed with all things analogue and does calligraphy on the side. She currently suffers from mild insomnia and is more than happy to be your guinea pig, so you won’t have to go through all the trouble of finding out what works best for you.
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