Bedroom

Published January 26, 2022

9 min

Bunk Bed Mattress Sizes and Dimensions Guide 2023

Bunk beds are great space savers and ideal for dormitories, hostels, or small rooms. Bunk beds occupy very little space and can accommodate multiple sleepers at once.

Nectar Editorial Team

Table of contents

Bunk Bed Mattress Sizes ChartTwin Bunk Bed Mattress SizeTwin XL Bunk Bed Mattress SizeFull/Double Bunk Bed Mattress SizeFull XL Bunk Bed Mattress SizeQueen Bunk Bed Mattress SizeKing Bunk Bed Mattress SizeTypes of Bunk BedsHow to Choose the Right Mattress for Bunk Beds?Frequently Asked Questions

Bunk beds are great space savers and ideal for dormitories, hostels, or small rooms. Bunk beds occupy very little space and can accommodate multiple sleepers at once.When we think of a standard bunk bed, we think of a bunk with two twin beds. But, many customize it to fit various mattress sizes. In this guide, we discuss what size is a bunk bed mattress, along with the factors affecting the purchase of the right mattress for a bunk bed. All these will help you make an informed decision.

Bunk Bed Mattress Sizes Chart

Various mattress sizes like twin XL, full, king, and queen, can be modified into bunk beds.Following are the bunk bed mattress dimensions:

Mattress Size	Dimensions (In)	Dimensions (CM)
Twin	38" X 75"	95.5 X 188.0 cm
Twin XL	38" X 80"	96.5 X 203.5 cm
Full	54" X 75"	134.5 X 190.5 cm
Full XL	54" X 80"	137 X 203.5 cm
Queen	60" X 80"	152 X 203.5 cm
King	76" X 80"	192 X 203.5 cm

Twin Bunk Bed Mattress Size

The standard mattress used in bunk beds is the twin mattress . The twin bunk bed mattress measures 38 x 75 inches. Twin size is appropriate for toddlers, children, teenagers, and young adults. As per standard rule, bunk beds for children must not have sharp edges.

Twin XL Bunk Bed Mattress Size

The twin XL bunk bed mattress is 5 inches longer than the standard twin mattress. The standard size of twin XL is 38 x 80 inches. The extra height makes it a good fit for growing children or tall teenagers.

Full/Double Bunk Bed Mattress Size

Usually, the full-size mattress is usable as the bottom bunk accompanied by a twin mattress on top. A Full bunk bed mattress dimensions are 54 x 75 inches. A double mattress is ideal for a single sleeper who needs ample sleeping space.

Full XL Bunk Bed Mattress Size

Full XL bunk bed mattress measures 54 x 80 inches. The full XL mattress is perfect for tall sleepers and can accommodate two people. It can be used both as a top and a bottom bunk and is the largest available size for the top bunk.

Queen Bunk Bed Mattress Size

A queen bunk bed mattress is a good fit for master bedrooms because of its size. The large size of the queen makes it an uncommon bunk bed size. A bunk with a bottom queen mattress and a single on top is perfect to fit in three sleepers.

King Bunk Bed Mattress Size

King Bunk bed mattresses are rare to find because they are enormous in size. The king mattresses measure 76 x 80 inches. Usually, people prefer bunk beds to save space, while king beds need a lot of space. A possible arrangement can be a bottom king mattress with a standard twin or twin XL on the top.

Types of Bunk Beds

The standard image of a bunk bed is of two twin beds hinged at a perpendicular distance. There are various other creative arrangements possible. Some of the types of bunks are standard, triple, triple loft, futon, and more.

Standard

The standard bunk bed has two twin beds placed vertically on top of each other. Other mattresses can also be used, like a queen, full size, or twin XL.

Triple

Three beds stacked on top of each other form a triple bunk bed. All three levels usually have twin mattresses. Since there are three levels, the height of this bunk bed is between 75-82 inches tall.

Triple Loft

Triple loft bunk beds form a cozy corner in the room. The top two bunk beds align at an angle of 90 degrees. The bottom bunk is below any one of the top bunks. The space left underneath the other top bunk can have a table, shelf, or couch.

Shorty

Here the bunk bed height is kept low. The bottom bunk is usually only a few inches above the floor. They suit the best in rooms with low ceilings.

Trundle

Trundle bunk beds are safe-saving beds with accommodation for three. A third bed is below the bottom bunk that slides out for use. It can be opened during the night and kept compact during the day.

L-Shaped

The L-shaped bunk beds are a set of two bunk beds placed perpendicularly. The bottom bunk is placed vertically like a usual twin bed. The top bunk is placed horizontally, usually alongside the wall.

Futon

Futon bunk beds are multifunctional beds. The top bunk is a standard bed. The bottom bunk is a futon that is a couch in the regular course. The futon can be slid open into a mattress. Futon bunk beds are ideal for dorms or rooms which require a greater seating area.

RV

A recreational van may be an exciting experience. But not so much if the bed is not comfortable. Bunk beds are ideal for RVs because they optimally utilize space. Usually, the size of bunk beds in an RV is the same as the standard twin.

How to Choose the Right Mattress for Bunk Beds?

Yes, selecting the perfect mattress for a bunk bed may be tricky. It is primarily because a bunk bed has two levels. The mattresses must cater to both the top and bottom sleepers.You can evaluate the following parameters to make the best choice.

Thickness

You must be cautious while choosing the mattress for the top bunk. It is likely that the sleeper may fall off and get hurt. The top bunk mattress should be thin. The top bunk also has railings around the circumference. If the mattress is too thick, it will cross the height of the guard railing. The ideal thickness of the mattress should be less than the height of the railing. We recommend a bunk bed mattress thickness between 4-6 inches for the top bunk.

Non-Creaky Mattress Model

Some people are used to turning positions and tossing throughout the night. It usually disturbs the partner if they have an unsound sleep. It is best to use a memory foam mattress that absorbs sound to ensure a peaceful sleep.

Lightweight Mattress

For the top bunk, you must select a lightweight mattress. The weight of the top mattress must be within the prescribed limits of the model. It will keep both the top and bottom sleeper safe and anxiety-free.

Cooling Mattresses

As per the law of science, hot air rises above the top. Hence the top sleeper may feel warm and humid. A cooling mattress with a temperature regulator can come to the rescue. It will ensure that both the top and bottom sleeper sleep comfortably.To conclude, bunk beds are a great option if you want to maximize space. There are many interesting permutations and combinations that can make a customized bunk. There are a variety of mattresses that can be used for bunks. Your usage, preferences, and number of sleepers are some factors that will determine the best choice for you.This article is for informational purposes and should not replace advice from your doctor or other medical professional.

Frequently Asked Questions

How thick should a bunk bed mattress be? A bunk bed mattress should measure between 6’’ to 8’’ in thickness. Low thickness is preferred for more safety. Irrespective of the thickness, the bunk bed mattress should provide comfort. How deep should a bunk bed mattress be? Ideally, the bunk bed mattresses shouldn’t be thicker than 15 cm as the deeper ones can risk safety since they prevent the side guards from doing their job properly. Can I use a memory foam mattress on a bunk bed? Yes, as long as it fits the mattress, it can be used. However, if you’re a hot sleeper, you should prefer using cooling gels. Can adults sleep comfortably in a bunk bed? Yes, most bunk beds are safe for adults to sleep on. Choose the one that allows about 500 pounds of weight.