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Questions about beds and mattresses answered. And some stories told.

Choosing the right mattress size is just as important as picking the right mattress type. Comfort isn’t only about firmness or materials—it’s also about having enough space to sleep comfortably. If you’re debating between a double (also called a full) and a queen mattress, you might wonder if the smaller size will still feel just as good. The answer: it depends on your needs and how you sleep.

Let’s break it down.

Dimensions Matter

A double mattress measures 54 inches wide by 75 inches long. A queen, by comparison, is 60 inches wide and 80 inches long. At first glance, a six-inch difference in width and five inches in length may not seem huge—but in practice, those extra inches can significantly affect how spacious and comfortable the bed feels, especially for couples or taller individuals.

Sleeping Solo? A Double Might Be Enough

If you’re a solo sleeper, a double bed can feel just as comfortable as a queen, especially if the mattress model is the same. You’ll get the same support, cushioning, and material quality. For someone under 6 feet tall who doesn’t move around much at night, a double bed can be perfectly comfortable. It’s also a great fit for smaller bedrooms or studio apartments, where space is limited and every inch counts.

If you prefer a cozier sleeping space or are upgrading from a twin, a double can feel like a major step up in comfort without the larger footprint of a queen.

Sharing the Bed? Go Queen

For couples, however, a queen mattress is almost always the better choice. When two people sleep on a double, each person only gets 27 inches of personal width—about the same as a crib mattress! That’s not a lot of room to turn, stretch, or shift positions without disturbing your partner.

A queen mattress gives 30 inches per person, which can make a big difference in how restful your sleep feels—especially if one or both of you tend to toss and turn.

Height is another consideration. A double bed is 75 inches long, which is just 6’3”. Factor in pillows and a headboard, and it can feel cramped for anyone taller than 5’9” or so. A queen’s 80-inch length gives more breathing room for longer legs.

Room Size and Budget

If you’re trying to decide between the two, think about your room size and budget. A queen mattress (and the bed frame, sheets, etc.) will cost a little more and take up more space. But if you’re planning to keep the mattress for years, that added comfort may be well worth the investment.

Final Thoughts

In terms of material comfort, a double and queen mattress of the same model will feel nearly identical. But in terms of sleep experience, the size difference matters. A double can be plenty comfortable for solo sleepers, especially in smaller spaces. But for couples or taller individuals, a queen-size mattress is likely to feel significantly more comfortable—thanks to the extra room to stretch out and move freely.

Bottom line: choose the size that matches your sleeping style, space, and long-term needs. Comfort isn’t just what’s inside the mattress—it’s also about how much room you have to enjoy it.