Dr. Barry Jarvis
When it comes to your main bedroom bed, deciding between a double or queen size can be a dilemma. What are the key differences, pros and cons of each to consider? This detailed guide covers all the essential factors in selecting between these two common bed sizes.
Read on to ensure you choose the perfect double or queen bed tailored to your space, preferences and lifestyle.
Key Dimensions
The variances in the physical double and queen mattress dimensions account for the differing pros each offers:
Double Bed
- Width: 54 inches
- Length: 75 inches
- Total surface area: 40.5 square feet
Queen Bed
- Width: 60 inches
- Length: 80 inches
- Total surface area: 48 square feet
While a double bed offers a cozy setup, the queen size delivers significantly more width and length, making it better for most adult couples. The pros and cons below provide added context.
Pros of a Double Bed
What advantages does choosing a double bed present?
Compact Footprint
At just 54 inches wide, a double bed fits well in smaller bedrooms or spaces with limited square footage. This makes doubles ideal for kids’ rooms, guest rooms, studio apartments or anywhere space constraints exist.
Lower Cost
Due to their simple standard sizing and smaller amount of materials needed, double beds are typically the lower priced option compared to larger sizes like queens.
Easier to Maneuver
Double beds are lighter and have a narrower frame, which allows easier movement through tight spaces, corners and stairwells during delivery and set-up. This also simplifies rearranging or changing bedroom layouts.
Cozy for Couples
While tight for many, some couples find sharing the cozy confines of a double bed romantic. Just be sure you’re both good sleepers in confined quarters!
Maximizes Bedroom Layout Options
The compact double size may allow furniture configurations and space usages not possible with a wider queen bed.
Cons of a Double Bed
What potential drawbacks come with selecting a double bed?
Tight Quarters
The main complaint about double beds is that the limited width doesn’t provide much extra room. This can be problematic for couples or those who like to spread out to sleep.
Outgrown Quickly
Double beds are a common starter bed for kids but most outgrow its confines rapidly. Adults too may find it quickly feels cramped.
Hard to Add Co-Sleepers
Only small children can periodically squeeze into a double bed with parents. As kids grow, they will not comfortably fit sharing a double for reading stories or weekend movie nights.
Limited Bedding Options
Due to reduced popularity, finding a wide selection of attractive bedding from sheets to duvets in a double size can be difficult compared to more standard sizes.
Can Cause Sleep Disruption
The tight quarters of a double make it easier to be woken up by a partner shifting positions, getting in and out of bed, or even just breathing deeply!
Pros of a Queen Bed
What unique perks can a queen size bed provide?
Roomy for Couples
With 60 inches of width, a standard queen provides plenty of personal sleeping space for couples along with room for intimate closeness. This is why queens are the most popular choice for master bedrooms.
Allows Spreading Out
The added 6 inches of width versus a double allows freedom to spread arms without encroaching on a partner. And there’s space to lounge comfortably when reading or watching TV in bed.
Accommodates Kids or Pets
Queens easily accommodate kids crawling in for story time or pets sleeping at the foot of the bed comfortably without disruptions.
Guest-Friendly
For hosting family or friends, a queen-sized bed allows sharing without anyone feeling squeezed. This makes an ideal guest bed.
Abundant Bedding Selection
Queen beds are ubiquitous. As a result, every retailer offers sheet sets, duvet covers, blankets and other linens in countless colors, prints and styles to dress a queen bed beautifully.
Simplifies Rearranging
With room to spare on either side, it’s easier to access and move around a queen bed for cleaning and rearranging furniture.
Cons of a Queen Bed
Are there any disadvantages or downsides to selecting a queen size?
Takes Up More Space
The wider footprint means a queen bed requires several more inches of open floor space on each side to allow walking around the bed. This impacts furniture arrangements.
Can Be Pricey
Due to increased materials, specialty options, and being highly sought after, queen beds tend to cost significantly more than double beds of comparable quality.
Heavy and Cumbersome
The larger size and weight of a queen mattress makes delivery, setup and moving a queen bed through doorways and tight spaces more challenging.
Not Great for Small Rooms
While a narrow double bed can fit well even in compact quarters, a queen is wider and feels oversized for very small bedrooms and spaces.
Hard to Adapt Over Time
Once accustomed to the sprawling comfort of a queen, it’s tough to downsize to a double bed or smaller if life circumstances ever require.
Pros and Cons Summary Table
| Double Bed | Queen Bed | |
|---|---|---|
| Pros | Compact size fits small spaces
Lower cost Easy to move and rearrange Cozy for some couples |
Roomy for couples
Space to spread out Accommodates kids/pets Ideal for guests Abundant bedding choices Easy furniture access |
| Cons | Too tight for many
Outgrown quickly Hard to co-sleep Limited bedding options Can disrupt sleep |
Requires more space
Higher cost Heavy and hard to move Not great for small rooms Hard to downsize from |
Double vs Queen: Comparing Key Uses
Determining whether a double or queen better suits your needs often comes down to how you intend to use the bed:
For Kids’ Rooms
Start kids with a double to save space and money. Later transition to a queen for pre-teens or teens who need room to study, lounge with friends, etc.
For Guest Bedrooms
Opt for a queen for guest room comfort. But doubles work well for kids’ sleepovers or limited space.
For Studio Apartments
In very compact spaces like studios, a double maximizes square footage. But those wanting to lounge in bed may still prefer a queen.
For Master Bedrooms
For main bedrooms, adult couples strongly favor queens for the extra room to relax and recline.
For Senior Living
Seniors sometimes downsize from queens to doubles to save space and money. But verify a double provides needed comfort.
Mattress Shopping Tips
When purchasing your ideal double or queen mattress, keep these tips in mind:
Pick Your Firmness
Determine whether you prefer softer or firmer support. Side sleepers often choose softer; back and stomach sleepers firmer.
Test Drive In-Store
Spend at least 10-15 minutes trying out mattresses in-store to evaluate comfort and support. Have your partner test too.
Consider Your Budget
Prices range widely – from $300 to $3000+. Determine how much you can reasonably spend before falling in love with an expensive bed.
Understand Warranties
Most mattresses come with at least 10 years of warranty coverage. Higher quality beds may offer 20-25 year warranties – check before purchasing.
Allow 30 Days for Adjustment
It can take up to 30 days for your body to adjust to a new mattress. Make sure to take advantage of return periods to swap out if discomfort persists.
Choose Delivery Date
Factor in 7-10 days for manufacturing once ordered. Schedule delivery for a convenient time when you can be home to inspect the new bed.
Style and Design Recommendations
Double Bed Style Tips
- Daybeds and trundles maximize space with doubles
- Add pretty canopies for a whimsical feel
- Use bright, colorful bedding for youthful vibe
- Choose neutral bedding to expand visual space
- Float a double in center of room instead of against walls
Queen Bed Style Tips
- Elevate with an upholstered headboard in your style
- Up the elegance with a queen bed frame with footboard
- Enable adjustment with motorized bases and massage
- Add drama with a tall platform frame
- Opt for low-profile platform frame for modern look
Double vs Queen Bed: The Verdict
In summary, when deciding between a double and queen bed, consider:
- Do you (and your partner) need space to fully spread out at night? Queen.
- Is the room compact with limited square footage? Double.
- Will kids or pets want to pile on periodically? Queen.
- Do you hope to regularly host overnight guests? Queen.
- Is your priority to decorate on a budget? Double.
For most adult couples, a queen bed provides the best balance of comfortable personal space along with cozy intimacy. But doubles work great for tight quarters, kids’ rooms, and guest spaces. Carefully weigh your needs, space and budget to choose a double or queen bed tailored precisely to your lifestyle.
FAQs About Double and Queen Beds
Below are answers to some common questions about sizing, usage and more when it comes to double and queen beds:
Is a double bed the same as a full bed?
Yes, a double bed and a full bed are different names for the same mattress dimensions – 54 inches wide by 75 inches long. Full became more common in North America.
Is a double or queen bed better for a small room?
Due to its compact footprint, a double bed is the better choice for maximizing space in a smaller bedroom. But some still prefer the extra room of a queen.
Which is better for couples – a double or queen bed?
Most couples prefer a queen bed because the extra width provides each partner more personal sleeping space. But some enjoy the enforced coziness of a double!
What is the standard height of a double or queen mattress?
The majority of double and queen mattresses today range between 10 and 14 inches thick. But heights can vary from ultra thin to extra plush pillowtops over 18 inches thick.
Can you use two twin extra long mattresses on a queen frame?
Yes, two twin extra long mattresses placed side-by-side on a queen frame will fill the 60” width. But you’ll have a gap between mattresses which some don’t prefer.
What size are double and queen bed frames?
Double frames are generally 54” wide x 75” long while queen frames are 60” wide x 80” long. Exact dimensions can vary slightly by frame style.
Final Thoughts on Choosing Double or Queen Beds
When shopping for the perfect size bed for your needs, closely consider the pros, cons and usage scenarios between double and queen beds. Measure your space, understand your sleeping habits and honestly evaluate your priorities whether space, budget or pure comfort to make the smartest decision between these two great options.
Originally posted on September 20, 2021 @ 2:16 am
Author
Dr. Barry Jarvis
Dr. Barry Jarvis is a renowned sleep specialist, dedicating their illustrious career to the intricate world of sleep medicine. Holding a medical degree from a prestigious institution, Dr. Jarvis has cultivated a deep understanding of the complex mechanisms that govern sleep and its pivotal role in overall health and well-being. With a compassionate approach and a meticulous eye for detail, Dr. Jarvis has helped countless individuals reclaim restful nights and vibrant days. Beyond their clinical expertise, they have contributed to groundbreaking research in sleep medicine, unraveling the mysteries of sleep disorders and pioneering innovative treatments that stand at the forefront of the field.
