You've finally decided that it's time for a new mattress, but you don't know what to choose. A lot of people get confused when the words "Double" and "Full" are used interchangeably, or they think that a "Double" bed is actually twice the size of a "Twin" bed. Though both double and queen sizes are popular, if you choose the wrong one, you might have a hard time sleeping or feel like your bedroom is very cramped.
The Real Size Differences Between Double and Queen Beds
It is helpful to look at the hard numbers before thinking about how the bed feels. The comparison of double bed vs queen bed dimensions reveals exactly how much extra sleeping surface you gain by going up a size.
| Feature | Double (Full) Bed | Queen Bed |
| Width | 54 inches (137 cm) | 60 inches (152 cm) |
| Length | 75 inches (191 cm) | 80 inches (203 cm) |
| Surface Area | ~4,050 sq. inches | ~4,800 sq. inches |
| Best For | Single adults, teenagers, guest rooms | Couples, tall adults, master bedrooms |
| Minimum Room Size | 10 x 10 feet | 10 x 10 feet (10 x 12 preferred) |
How Much Space Each Person Needs
The six-inch difference in width might not sound like much, but it changes everything when two people share the bed. On a Double mattress, two adults each get only 27 inches of personal space, which is roughly the width of a baby crib. A Queen mattress increases this to 30 inches per person and adds five inches of length for your feet.
By comparing these sizes next to each other, you can see that the Queen gives you a lot more room to move around, which is important if you or your partner likes to shift positions during the night.
Comparing Comfort Levels for Singles and Couples
Choosing the right size is not just about fitting the bed into a room; it's also very important that you sleep well at night. How comfortable you are will depend on your height, whether you sleep alone, and how much space you need to unwind.
For Single Sleepers
A Double bed is often the "Goldilocks" size for a single adult. It provides plenty of room to stretch out diagonally without taking up the entire bedroom floor. If you are a single sleeper who loves luxury, a Queen offers even more rolling room. You might also consider adding a plush mattress topper to either size to enhance the feel, but remember that a topper adds height, not width or length.
For Couples
Sleeping partners often find the Double bed challenging. While it is cozy for cuddling, it lacks the space needed for deep, uninterrupted sleep. If one person moves, the other feels it almost immediately. The Queen size is the standard recommendation for couples because that extra width reduces sleep disturbances.
For Tall Sleepers
Height is the deciding factor that many people overlook. A Double bed is 75 inches long, which can be too short for anyone over 5'9". If you find your toes hanging off the edge of your current mattress, the Queen's 80-inch length is a necessary upgrade. No amount of high-quality bedding or accessories can fix a mattress that is physically too short for your body.
Comfort is subjective, but physical dimensions are facts. If you share a bed or are tall, the Queen size almost always wins in terms of daily usability.
Considering the Room Size and Layout in Your Space
Your bedroom needs to be a sanctuary, not an obstacle course. Placing a large bed in a small room kills the vibe and makes simple tasks like opening a dresser drawer frustrating.
Ideal Room Size for a Double
This size works perfectly in smaller spaces, such as apartments, guest rooms, or older homes with smaller bedrooms. A room measuring 10 feet by 10 feet allows for a Double bed and standard furniture. It is also a favorite for student housing and studio apartments where every square inch counts.
Ideal Room Size for a Queen
Because a Queen is both wider and longer, it demands more floor space. Ideally, you want a room that is at least 10 feet by 12 feet. This ensures you can place nightstands on both sides and still walk around the foot of the bed without turning sideways.
Walking Space
Designers recommend leaving at least 24 to 30 inches of walking space around the three accessible sides of the bed. If a Queen size eats into this walkway, the room will feel cluttered and chaotic.
The best thing you can do is measure the room before you buy. Making sure there is enough space for doors and drawers is just as important as the size of the bed.
Budgeting for Your Bed and Bedding Accessories
The price difference between these two sizes extends beyond just the mattress price tag. You need to think about frames, sheets, comforters, and protective covers too. Knowing what each size costs helps you plan your budget realistically.
Mattress Prices Comparison
A queen mattress typically costs $100-300 more than a double in the same quality range. If you're watching every dollar, that difference might push you toward a double bed. However, since queen is America's most popular mattress size, stores run sales on them more often. You might catch a deal that closes the price gap.
The budget advantage of a double bed matters most if you're furnishing a guest room or buying for a teenager. For your primary bedroom, spending a bit more on a queen usually makes sense for the comfort you gain.
Sheets and Bedding
Both sizes have plenty of bedding options, but queen selections tend to be larger. You can grab a full-size bed in-a-bag set for a double bed, which includes sheets, pillowcases, and a comforter in coordinated colors. A queen size bed in a bag gives you the same convenience in the larger size.
If you'd rather pick individual items, cotton sheets come in both sizes at similar price points. Adding a cooling comforter helps regulate temperature during warm months. Just make sure it's sized correctly so it drapes nicely over the edges.
Weighing the Pros and Cons of Double Bed and Queen Bed
Sometimes the easiest way to decide is to look at a direct breakdown of the benefits and drawbacks. This helps you identify which compromises you are willing to make.
Double Bed Pros:
- Space-Saving: Fits comfortably in smaller bedrooms and studio apartments.
- Cost-Effective: Lower price point for mattresses and accessories.
- Lighter Weight: Easier to move up stairs or around corners.
- Cozy for One: Provides ample space for a single sleeper to stretch out.
Double Bed Cons:
- Short Length: At 75 inches, it may leave tall sleepers with cold feet.
- Tight for Two: Generally too narrow for couples to sleep comfortably long-term.
- Resale Value: Less desirable if you plan to sell the bed frame later.
Queen Bed Pros:
- Couples Friendly: The standard size for shared sleeping arrangements.
- Extra Length: Accommodates taller individuals comfortably.
- Availability: Massive selection of bedding styles and mattress types.
- Resale Value: Easier to sell or repurpose into a guest room later.
Queen Bed Cons:
- Larger Footprint: Can overwhelm small rooms (under 10x10 feet).
- Heavier: More difficult to move, especially for one person.
- Higher Cost: More expensive initial investment for mattress and sheets.
The Double bed is the champion of small spaces and solo sleepers, while the Queen reigns supreme for couples and those who refuse to compromise on legroom.
Upgrade Your Sleep Experience with GentleSoft Today
Making the final call requires honesty about your current life and your future plans. You are not just buying a rectangle of foam and springs; you are investing in the next eight to ten years of your rest.
Consider Your Sleep Habits
Ask yourself how you actually sleep. If you are a restless sleeper who tosses and turns, or if you share your bed with a partner (or a large dog), the extra width of a Queen is invaluable. Conversely, if you sleep like a rock and need to save floor space for a desk or yoga mat, the Double might be your best practical option.
Measure Your Room
Instead of guessing, use a tape measure to map out the footprint of the bed on your floor. Use painter's tape to visualize the corners. Make sure you can open your closet doors fully. If a Queen leaves you with less than two feet of walking space, the daily annoyance will outweigh the nightly comfort.
Think About Long-Term Use
Are you staying in this home for a while? If you think you might move to a larger place or have a partner move in within the next few years, buying a Bedsure GentleSoft® Queen mattress now saves you from having to upgrade too soon. Quality bedding lasts a long time, so buying the right size today prevents wasted money tomorrow.
In the end, the right bed balances your need for good sleep with the limitations of your living area. If you want to get a better night's sleep, measure twice and buy once.
FAQs
Q1: Is a Double bed big enough for two people?
Even though two people could fit on a Double bed, it is rarely comfortable enough to use every night. Everybody only gets about 27 inches of width. That's fine for cuddling, but if one person moves or gets hot, it makes the other person uncomfortable. It is better for occasional guests than permanent couples.
Q2: How much bigger is a Queen bed compared to a Double?
A Queen bed is 5 inches longer and 6 inches wider than a Double bed. The extra space is about 750 square inches, which may not seem like much. For people taller than 5'9", the extra length is very important because it keeps their feet from hanging off the end, which can happen with a shorter Double mattress.
Q3: How much space does a Queen bed need?
The room you want to put a Queen bed in should be at least 10 feet by 10 feet. This makes room for the bed and some extra area for walking. A room that is at least 10 feet by 12 feet is ideal because it has enough room for nightstands and a dresser without feeling crowded.
Q4: Should I upgrade from a Double to a Queen?
If your bed will be shared with a partner or pets, or if you are taller than most people, you should move up. Most of the time, the extra room is worth the cost because it improves sleep quality. You should stick with the Double, though, if your bedroom is very small, so that the room stays functional and breathable.
