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Last Updated May 15, 2025
College dorm rooms are not as luxurious in size as we would like them to be, which means the amount of stuff we can fit into them is limited. This is where the eventual question arises - "What size is a dorm bed?" It can't be too big that it takes up the entire room, nor can it be too small that you feel like you're sleeping in prison. So, what is the size where a dorm bed becomes perfect? What can you expect to be sleeping on for the duration of college? That's what we're here to discuss in this article. We'll cover each size in detail, including twin XL - the most common one - and we'll also take you through everything you need to know about making your dorm bed comfortable.
Key Takeaways:
Twin XL is the most popular dorm bed size. It's 38 inches wide and 80 inches long, which makes it 5 inches longer than a standard twin bed and perfect for tall sleepers above 6 feet.
However, a twin XL size isn't the only one that can fit in a dorm room. You've also got the standard twin bed and the full-size bed. Here's how each mattress size compares against the other, and how much space is needed to accommodate them:
| Dorm Bed Size | Dimensions (W x L) | Room Space Required |
|---|---|---|
| Twin | 38 x 75 inches | 7 x 10 feet |
| Twin XL | 38 x 80 inches | 7 x 10 feet |
| Full-Size | 54 x 75 inches | 9.6 x 10.6 feet |
When it comes to dorm beds, the difference between a twin and a twin XL mattress might seem small, but it can make a big impact, especially if you're tall. A twin mattress measures 38 inches wide by 75 inches long. It's more common in kids’ rooms or older dorms that haven’t been updated in a while. While it works fine for shorter students, it can feel cramped if you're over 5'10", especially since your feet can hang off the end.
A twin XL mattress, on the other hand, is 38 inches wide by 80 inches long. That extra 5 inches of length doesn’t sound like much, but it’s the standard in most modern college dorms. It offers more comfort for taller students without taking up much more floor space. The only catch? Twin XL beds need twin XL sheets—regular twin sheets won’t fit correctly.
When comparing a twin XL mattress to a full mattress, the biggest differences are in width and personal space. A full-size mattress, sometimes called a double, measures 54 inches wide by 75 inches long. That’s 16 inches wider than a twin XL, giving you more room to stretch out or roll over. However, it’s 5 inches shorter, which is going to be a downside for taller students.
Full mattresses are usually found in apartment-style dorms or off-campus setups, where there’s more room to spare. In a freshman dorm, twin XL is the norm.
Dorm mattresses are usually medium-firm to firm by default. This is because schools aim to provide a durable surface that suits a wide range of students. While this firmness level offers solid support, it might feel too stiff for some. That’s why many students add a 2-inch mattress topper, or even a 3-inch mattress topper in some cases, to soften things up and make the bed more comfortable.
Most dorm mattresses are about 6 to 8 inches thick. They're thinner than regular mattresses to save space, especially on lofted or bunked beds. While this thickness is manageable, it can feel a bit basic or too firm on its own. A mattress topper not only adds comfort but also a few inches of height, bringing the total thickness to around 9 to 11 inches, which is typically more comfortable for daily sleep.
Yes—bedding is absolutely necessary for a dorm bed. As tempting as it might be to skip the extras to save money or avoid decision fatigue, a properly set-up bed can make a huge difference in how well you sleep, study, and feel overall. Dorm mattresses are usually thin, firm, and not exactly luxurious, so having the right bedding is more than just about comfort; it’s about making your dorm feel like home.
Here’s what you’ll need:
Dorm mattresses are known for being stiff and worn down. A mattress topper (2-4 inch thick) or a mattress pad (1-2 inch thick) adds a much-needed layer of comfort and support. Aim for at least 2-4 inches of thickness, made of memory foam, latex, or a quilted pad.
At least one good pillow is essential for sleep, and you might want an extra for lounging. A standard-size pillow (20 x 26 inches) works best.
You’ll need a fitted sheet (twin XL in most dorms), a flat sheet, and ideally a backup sheet set for laundry day. Go for breathable, easy-care fabrics like cotton or microfiber.
Dorm beds have seen a lot of use. A waterproof mattress protector helps keep things cleaner and more hygienic.
Choose a comforter that fits your climate—lightweight for warmer areas, thicker for colder ones. Twin XL size is best for coverage.
Blanket throws are nice to have for extra warmth or lounging outside of bed. They also add a personal touch to your space.
When you're shopping for dorm bedding, size matters a lot. Getting the right fit means your sheets won't pop off at night, and your comforter will actually cover your bed (and maybe even hide some under-bed clutter).
Here's a quick table to help you find the right size sheets, comforters, and pillows based on your dorm bed size:
| Dorm Bed Size | Fitted Sheet Size | Flat Sheet Size | Comforter/Duvet Size | Pillow Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Twin | 39-40 x 75-76 inches | 60-75 x 90-102 inches | 68 x 86 inches | Standard (20 x 26 inches) |
| Twin XL | 39-40 x 80-81 inches | 60-75 x 102-114 inches | 68 x 90 inches | Standard (20 x 26 inches) |
| Full-Size | 54-55 x 75-76 inches | 84-90 x 90-102 inches | 86 x 86 inches | Standard or Queen |
Notes:
A twin XL dorm bed, measuring 38 by 80 inches, is the bed size you can expect to find in most college dorms. Adorn it with some standard or decorative pillows, twin XL sheets, a twin XL comforter, a twin XL mattress topper, and a twin XL mattress protector - and you're pretty much ready to tackle some good night's sleep all the way through college!
Most college dorm beds are twin XL. They’re the same width as a regular Twin but 5 inches longer, making them better suited for adult and taller students.
The majority of dorm beds measure 38" x 80", which is the standard size for a twin XL mattress. Some schools may use regular twin (38" x 75"), but twin XL is much more common.
You’ll need twin XL sheets for most dorm beds. Regular twin sheets won’t fit properly on a twin XL—they’ll come up short and pop off at the corners.
A typical dorm room for one student is about 7 x 10 feet to 9 x 12 feet. Shared rooms will be a bit larger, but space is still tight, so efficient furniture and storage are key.
The best college dorm mattress topper is an organic latex mattress topper. A high-quality twin XL one will cost you somewhere around $100-$200. It's breathable, durable, and eco-friendly, so you won't have to worry about it breaking down quickly or dispersing harmful chemical particles around the room.
College students should aim for 7 to 9 hours of sleep per night, as getting less, especially before exams, can significantly reduce academic performance. Research shows that students who sleep more tend to perform better on tests, and even a short night of sleep before an exam can lower scores.
Related blog posts:
1. Dorm Room Decor Ideas: Make Your Space Feel Like Home
2. College Dorm Room Essentials Checklist
3. Snooze or Lose: The Student's Dilemma
4. Do Bed Risers Work? Let's Find Out!
5. ADHD and Sleep: Why Rest Can Feel Impossible and What to Do About It
Disclaimer: What is said in this article has been referenced from multiple sources and is intended only for educational and informational purposes. Please note that no content in this article is a substitute for professional advice from a qualified doctor or healthcare provider. Always consult an experienced doctor with any concerns you may have regarding a health condition or treatment, and never disregard any medical suggestions or delay in seeking treatment because of something you read here.
