Bedroom

How to measure a mattress

When investing in a new mattress, knowing what size to order is a simple but critical decision. Even if you are fairly sure about your mattress size, measuring it before you begin shopping will add confidence to your decision. If you are preparing to order a custom-size mattress for a specialized application, knowing how to accurately measure your mattress or future mattress foundation will ensure you achieve the most accurate fit possible. This guide includes clear instruction on how to measure like a pro, along with diagrams and photo examples.

Traditional Mattress Sizes

If you are ordering a mattress for your home, it is helpful to know the standard measurements available in most mattress retailers. If your measurements are not within a 1.5 inch tolerance of these traditional sizes, you may need to order a custom size. Please see our Mattress Custom Services page for a list of commonly ordered custom sizes and more details. The traditional mattress sizes are as follows:

Twin/Single: 38” x 74” Twin XL: 38” x 80” Full/Double: 53” x 74” Queen: 60” x 80” Eastern King: 76” x 80” California King: 72” x 84”.

Measuring

To determine the dimensions of your mattress there are two points of reference. The first is measuring your existing mattress, and the second is to measure the space or bed frame the new mattress will fill. We recommend enlisting someone to help you hold one end of the measuring tape for the most accurate results. If you would prefer the Square Deal team to take the measurements for you, we will schedule a house call. There is a $35 minimum fee for this service that can be credited toward your account once the order is placed.
Measuring the Existing Mattress
Placing the measuring tape on top of the mattress surface is the best way to acquire the length and width. Simply hold one end of the tape to the seam or bead of the quilt and measure the distance to the opposite end. If the surface of your mattress seems especially worn or misshapen, feel for the edge of the innerspring and measure from that reference point instead. Do this for the length and width.
For the thickness it is important to measure from the mattress base to the crown, not just stopping at the seam. Lay a yardstick or similar long flat object in the center of the bed and position it so the end extends past the edge of the mattress. Measure from the boxspring or slats to the bottom of the yardstick to acquire the thickness (Method 1). Alternatively, hold the bottom of the tape against the boxspring or slats and wrap the tape over the seam until it reaches the true level surface of the quilt (Method 2).
Measuring the Frame
If you only have the frame to reference, there is still enough information to determine an accurate size. Place the tape inside the frame and find the lip that the mattress or foundation will rest on. Measure from the head/headboard bracket to the opposite end. Move toward the center and measure the width from one inside wall to the other. It can be helpful to note whether this space is enclosed on two or three sides (such as a headboard/footboard or day bed).
If your frame has a side rail you would like the mattress to rise above, measure from the bottom lip inside the frame to the top of the side rail. If you have an enclosed area that causes a height restriction, measure from the bottom lip inside the frame to the top of the enclosure. This number will be helpful to reference in proportion to the final thickness of the mattress.
Another useful measurement to have on hand is the distance from the floor to the bottom lip of the frame. Knowing this distance will help us accurately calculate how tall your bed set will sit when complete.
When using these measurements to inform what size to order your mattress, there are some convenience factors to consider. Some customers prefer to make their bed about a half-inch smaller than the frame on all sides to make it easier to change the bedding. Others may need additional flexibility to install the bed in tight spaces. Please mention any convenience factors like these to your salesperson during your showroom consultation.

Related Posts