Full vs. Queen: What’s the Difference?

When it comes to choosing the right mattress size, the decision between a queen and a full (also known as a double) can be a tough one. Both sizes offer their own unique advantages and disadvantages, and the choice ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences.

In this comprehensive guide, our team at Anne de Solène will explore the key differences between queen and full-size mattresses, their pros and cons, and help you determine which one is the best fit for your lifestyle.

Getting a Better Grasp of Mattress Dimensions

Before diving into the comparison, let's first understand the dimensions of these two mattress sizes:

Full Size (Double) Mattress

Dimensions: 54 inches (137 cm) wide x 75 inches (190 cm) long
Ideal for: Single sleepers, teenagers, and smaller bedrooms

Queen Size Mattress

Dimensions: 60 inches (152 cm) wide x 80 inches (203 cm) long
Ideal for: Single sleepers, couples, and master bedrooms

As you can see, the queen size mattress is wider and longer than the full size, providing more sleeping space and accommodating a wider range of sleepers.

Advantages and Particular Considerations of a Full Size Mattress

Advantages of Full Size Mattresses

Space-saving: Full-size mattresses are ideal for smaller bedrooms or apartments where space is limited. They take up less floor space than larger mattress sizes, making them a practical choice for tight living quarters.
Budget-friendly: Generally, full-size mattresses are more affordable than larger sizes, making them a cost-effective option for those on a tighter budget.
Easy to move: Due to their smaller size, full-size mattresses are easier to maneuver through doorways, hallways, and staircases during moves or rearranging furniture.

Considerations for Full Size Mattresses

Limited space for couples: While it's technically possible for two adults to share a full-size mattress, the sleeping surface may feel cramped, leading to disrupted sleep and potential discomfort.
Not ideal for taller individuals: The 75-inch length of a full-size mattress may not provide adequate legroom for taller sleepers, causing them to feel cramped or have their feet hanging off the edge. Less room for active sleepers: Those who tend to toss and turn throughout the night may find a full-size mattress too confining, potentially leading to restless sleep.

Advantages and Particular Considerations of a Queen Size Mattress

Advantages of Queen Size Mattresses

Ample space for couples: The queen size mattress provides sufficient sleeping space for most couples, allowing them to move freely without disturbing their partner.
Suitable for single sleepers: If you're a single sleeper who enjoys having extra room to stretch out or co-sleeping with a child or pet, a queen size mattress can accommodate your needs.
More room for active sleepers: The additional width and length of a queen size mattress allow for more freedom of movement, making it a comfortable choice for combination sleepers or those who toss and turn frequently.

Considerations for Queen Size Mattresses

Higher cost: Queen size mattresses are typically more expensive compared to full-size mattresses, which may be a consideration for those on a tight budget.
Requires more space: A queen size mattress takes up more floor space in your bedroom, potentially leaving less room for additional furniture or walking space.
Difficulty moving: Due to their larger size and weight, queen size mattresses can be more challenging to move, especially through narrow doorways or staircases.

Room Size Considerations

For a full-size mattress, the recommended minimum room size is 10 feet by 12 feet to accommodate the bed and allow for adequate walking space around it.

For a queen size mattress, a room size of at least 10 feet by 14 feet is recommended to ensure a comfortable fit and sufficient space for additional furniture.

It's important to note that these are general guidelines, and your specific room layout and furniture placement may impact the ideal room size for your chosen mattress.

Other Mattress Size Options

While the queen and full sizes are among the most popular choices, there are other mattress size options to consider:

Twin (38 inches x 75 inches): Ideal for children's rooms, bunk beds, or single sleepers in small spaces.
Twin XL (38 inches x 80 inches): Provides extra length for taller individuals while maintaining a compact width.
King (76 inches x 80 inches): Offers ample space for couples and is essentially two twin XL mattresses combined.
California King (72 inches x 84 inches): Slightly narrower but longer than a standard king, making it a great choice for taller individuals or couples who prefer to sleep closer together.

Choosing the Right Mattress Size

When deciding between a queen or full-size mattress, consider the following factors:

Number of sleepers: If you'll be sharing the bed with a partner, a queen size mattress is generally recommended for optimal comfort and space.
Sleeping habits: If you're a restless sleeper or tend to toss and turn frequently, the extra space provided by a queen size mattress may be more suitable.
Room dimensions: Measure your bedroom and ensure that the mattress size you choose will fit comfortably while leaving ample space for other furniture and walking areas.

Remember, choosing the right mattress size is a personal decision that should be based on your individual needs, preferences, and lifestyle. Don't hesitate to seek guidance from mattress experts or try out different sizes in person to find the perfect fit.

Your Mattress and Bed Linens: Blending Style and Comfort

Whether you opt for a queen or full-size mattress, the key is finding the option that provides you with the comfort, support, and sleeping space you need to wake up feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

By considering factors such as room size, sleeping habits, and budget, you can make an informed decision and invest in a mattress and additional bedding accessories such as flat sheetfitted sheet, and duvet covers that can potentially contribute to your overall well-being and quality of sleep for years to come.