- Nursery Articles -
Bunk Bed Mattress Sizes:
How to Choose Yours
Bunk beds are a stylish and space-saving sleeping arrangement, and kids love them. Choosing the right bunk bed mattress size helps promote safer sleep for children, especially those on the coveted top bunk. Read on to learn the basics of bunk bed mattress sizes and how to choose the right mattress.
Bunk Bed Mattress Size Basics
Here’s the good news: Bunk beds are made to accommodate the length and width of standard mattress sizes. However, you’ll want to consider mattress height. Top bunk bed mattresses are usually thinner, since the guardrail must rise above the mattress.
The most common bunk bed mattress sizes are Twin, Twin XL and Full (also called Double). Bunk beds rarely have Double XL or Queen mattresses.
Consult this simple table to find common bunk bed mattress sizes:
| Bunk Bed Size | Correct Mattress Size | Mattress Dimensions (inches) |
|---|---|---|
| Twin | Twin | 75'' L x 38'' W x 8'' D |
| Twin XL | Twin XL | 80'' L x 38'' W x 8'' D |
| Full (or Double) | Full (or Double) | 75'' L x 53'' W x 8'' D |
| Double XL | Double XL | 80'' L x 53'' W x 8'' D |
| Queen | Queen | 80'' L 60'' x W x 8'' D |
When choosing a bunk bed mattress, make sure to find one that fits snugly in the frame. A mattress that is too large will push out over the guardrail, while one that is too small will leave gaps between the mattress and the railing.
Remember that the mattress on the top bunk may need to be thinner than the one on the bottom bunk. A bunk bed mattress always needs to sit lower than the guardrail for safety.
Additionally, many bunk bed mattresses are GREENGUARD Gold Certified, which means they are free of many harmful chemicals that can negatively affect indoor air quality.
If you haven’t purchased a bunk bed yet, learn more about the different options to consider when choosing the best one for your little ones.
Choosing the Best Bunk Bed
Bunk beds come in many different sizes and styles. When choosing a bunk bed, consider which features are most important to you.
Twin or Full
The first choice to make when buying a bunk bed is what size you want. Many of us are familiar with bunk beds that have two twin mattresses (called “twin-over-twin”), but there are other options.
Bunk beds also come in “twin-over-full” arrangements, with a twin mattress on top and a full mattress on the bottom. There are even “full-over-full” bunk beds, which can accommodate children as they grow. Whatever frame you choose, make sure to get the right bunk bed mattress size by using the table above.
Ladder or Stairs
Another consideration when choosing a bunk bed is how kids are going to get up to the top bunk. Two common options are ladders and stairs.
Trundle
Bunk beds may include a trundle on bottom bunk, or you can purchase a trundle separately to add to the bed. Having a trundle underneath the bottom bunk provides extra storage for toys and clothes.
Theme
Some bunk beds are themed to inspire the kids’ creativity and imaginations. Whether they love whimsy or prefer a classic design, there are plenty of unique bunk bed themes to choose from.
With all of this in mind, you’re ready to find the perfect bunk bed, get the right mattress size and help your child enjoy a night of comfortable and safe sleep.