All Things Snooze

Is A Double Bed The Same As A Full?

February 18, 2021 | Casper Editorial Team

As you look for the mattress that’s just right, you want to consider every option. This leads many people to wonder, is a full or double bed bigger?

This is actually a trick question. Both a full size memory foam mattress and a double mattress have the same bed dimensions— 54” wide by 75” long.

In this short guide, we’ll explain how the full size bed got its two names and how you can determine if it’s the right sleep surface for you so you can find your happily-ever-after bed.

Full vs Double Mattress: What’s the Difference?

You might be pondering the question, why are there two different names for mattresses that are 54” by 75”?

After all, there’s no other difference when it comes to a full vs double bed.

Both names stem from this mattress’ size in relation to a twin-sized bed. Here’s a quick history of how one mattress size got two names:

Mattress manufacturers began standardizing their sizes shortly after the Civil War. In the late 19th century, people were limited to only two mattresses sizes: “single” (what we now call twin) and “double.”

While the name “double” suggests that this mattress is twice as large as a twin bed, it’s just 16” wider than a 38” by 75” twin size mattress.

“Full” or “double” mattresses are thus named because they can sleep two people rather than one.

The double or full bed size was the standard for couples up until the 1950s. At that time, manufacturers began to make the standard king and queen bed dimensions longer to accommodate a taller population.

Full sized beds are only 6’4” long, which means that taller people may find them uncomfortable.

Choosing Your Mattress Size

You may be wondering if a full size mattress is right for you? Or is a full bed big enough for two?

As we’ve already noted, a full size mattress is not a single sleeper. It definitely has the extra space available to fit two people. After all, couples slept in beds of this size for most of the 20th century.

However, it’s worth weighing the pros and cons of this bed size.

Benefits of the full size mattress include the following:

Less bed means more room in the bedroom – If you have a small living space, you definitely want as much extra space as possible to move around. With a standard king or queen sized bed, you might find it challenging to open your closet doors, make room for your bureau, and generally give your bedroom a spacious, uncluttered feel. In cases like these, a double mattress can be ideal. You’ll save at least six inches in width along with five inches in length.

Great for one person – A twin bed doesn’t give an adult much room to toss, turn, and spread out. On the other hand, a full size mattress provides more than enough sleeping space for a single person—yes, even if you like to sprawl out on your back like a sleepily content starfish.
Cost – Because a full size memory foam mattress requires less material to manufacture, it’s usually less expensive than a queen and king size mattress.

Compatibility with headboards and frames – Love vintage and antique furniture? Purchasing a full size single mattress could open up your options for decor. Since most beds were full size until 1950, you’ll find that a Victorian, shaker, and art deco bed frame is ideal for your mattress. An important question would be, can a full size mattress fit a queen headboard? Yes! While there is a difference in size when comparing a full vs queen, you can still pass with a queen headboard or bed frame. There are plenty of ways to adjust a queen headboard to a full size mattress.

Although, there are some cases where you might want to opt for a bigger mattress.

Potential cons of double mattresses include:

Less length – If you’re well over six feet tall, you may find yourself hitting your head on your headboard or struggling to find room for your feet. In this case, an 80” long king or queen size mattress could be ideal.

Length space to toss and turn – While many couples find full size beds comfortable, some prefer more sleeping space so that they can change positions without elbowing each other in the middle of the night. Likewise, couples who sleep with their pets or their kids might enjoy having a 60” wide queen mattress or a 76” wide king mattress.

Choose Your Own Adventure With Casper

Are you looking for the perfect full size mattress for your double bed? Well, Goldilocks, look no further. Casper carries the mattress sizes and materials to suit every sleeper. Choose between our six mattress sizes and four mattress types to find the perfect mix of space and support. With a 100 night risk-free trial, you can try out our mattress until you’re sure you’ve found your “just right” bed!