There are consumers that might not even know that there is a twin XL mattress size. Twin vs twin XL mattresses are quite similar but obviously, the XL size adds to the overall size of the mattress. The decision depends on who is buying the mattress as a teen that of average size could be fine on a twin XL. A small child could utilize a twin mattress due to the need to share their room with a sibling.
In a studio apartment, an adult might want to increase living space and opt for a twin XL rather than a queen or full bed. Twin mattresses are used widely for children and those with restricted space in a room. Below will help outline the differences between the mattresses and who the primary people that will be sleeping in these different size mattresses.
What is a Twin bed?
The twin bed is the first step up from a toddler bed and is a popular choice for children and people around the world. Dorms across the country and world utilize these to save space. For anyone that has stayed in a hostel, you were likely sleeping on a twin mattress of a certain brand. These are usually the mattresses that are put on bunk beds as well.
Dimensions
The dimensions of a twin mattress are 75 inches in length and 38 inches in width.
Pros
- This bed will be easy to find sheets for as it is extremely common around the entire world.
- This mattress will likely be the most affordable due to it being the smallest size above a toddler bed/crib.
- There is potential to fit multiple beds in a room if children/people are sharing a room.
- Twin mattresses can be easily moved around to other rooms or to flip the mattress after a period of time.
- Can fit in an area if a person is visiting without a designated guest room.
Cons
- Trying to have multiple people sleep in the bed is nothing short of impossible. The narrow nature of the bed will not be able to fit two people shoulder to shoulder sleeping on their backs in most cases. This is dependent on sleeping without a limb hanging over the side of the bed.
- Those that are taller might have a foot hanging off the edge. This can impact body position while sleeping in a negative fashion by putting the body out of alignment.
Who is it for?
The traditional twin mattress can be for an adult of average height or a child. Most people can fit comfortably on a twin mattress although couples will not be able to fit. An option for a couple with two twin mattresses could be to push these together which is a common practice. Guest rooms having multiple twin beds can also increase the rental value of a property which is something to keep in mind.
What is a Twin XL bed?
Many people have not heard of a twin XL bed before, but this adds length that some people might require. The added 5 inches will allow even the tallest sleepers to be comfortable. This will still lack in width for couples which should be kept in mind.
Dimensions
The dimensions of a twin XL mattress are 80 inches in length and 38 inches in width.
Pros
- The extra 5 inches to the length make this perfect for a taller person or someone that just wants more room.
- The price is still reasonable as it is not a huge difference in materials used for the additional length.
- Easy to transport and move throughout a home without assistance.
Cons
Requires more space in a small room but it will be barely noticeable to most.
Who is it for?
This bed is for those that want tend to slide down their bed over the course of the night along with the taller population. If you do not want to take up too much space with a full or queen size mattress but still require length, then this mattress is for you.
Twin vs Twin XL size bed comparison
Below are the details compared that can help you with your decision in buying a twin or twin XL mattress.
Dimensions
Twin and twin XL mattresses are both 38 inches in width.
A twin XL mattress is 80 inches in length.
Twin mattresses measure in at 75 inches in length.
Width per person
The width per person will be 19 inches for both beds which makes it nearly impossible for couples to sleep comfortably together. 38 inches can be enough for a person of average size that doesn’t sprawl out too wide when sleeping.
Weight
The weight of the mattresses differs by a little with some beds having just a 3-pound difference. This will vary depending on the type of mattress or the material that the mattress is made of. A twin mattress averages around 45 pounds while a twin XL averages 48 pounds.
Comfort
The only difference between the two beds is that of length. For a taller person, the twin XL is going to be more comfortable. Mattress pads and the material that the bed is made of will impact the comfort far more than the size though.
Price
The twin vs twin XL will differ very little in terms of price with the twin XL being a bit more expensive. Purchasing a latex mattress will be more expensive than a memory foam mattress due to durability. Type of material used will have more of an impact on the price than the difference between a twin and a twin XL mattress.
Size of room required
The size of the room required is around the same for both mattress sizes. Unless your bedroom is the size of a small closet then you will be able to fit it in a room.
Accessories
Finding sheets or mattress covers for a twin XL is simply going to be more difficult than a traditional twin. The twin XL is not as common so it could be a struggle to find the right accessories in-store. Luckily, there are plenty of online shopping websites that include twin XL accessories for a large number of products.
Quick comparison
The comparison between a twin and a twin XL is very little when compared to other larger sizes. This might be the answer if you want a longer bed but cannot fit a full or queen mattress in your current abode.
| Twin size bed | Twin XL size bed | |
| Dimensions | 75 inches long and 38 inches wide | 80 inches long and 38 inches wide |
| Weight | 45 pounds | 48 pounds |
| Popularity | Very popular | Less common |
| Pros | Takes up less space | Adds length for taller sleepers |
| Cons | Can be too short for some sleepers Too narrow for couples | A little more expensive Can be tough to find accessories Too narrow for couples |
In conclusion
The twin vs twin XL mattress decision is not as large of a jump as a twin to a king size bed. The affordability of both is top of the line with the XL being more expensive as it simply requires more material. Measure out the place where the mattress will be located as this can provide a better idea of the best option for your home/room. For a family that is a bit taller than others, you could already have multiple twin XL mattresses in your home already.
