Key Takeaways
- Using the correct bed sheet size ensures a snug fit so you can stay comfortable and keep sheets in place.
- Fitted sheets often have the same dimensions as their corresponding mattress size and elastic corners to hold them in place.
- Flat sheets are longer and wider than fitted sheets, and people typically use them as a layer between the fitted sheet and additional bedding.
Bed sheets are one of the most important comfort factors when building an ideal sleeping space — and for good reason. They can keep you warm or elevate your bed’s aesthetic regardless of mattress size.
Unfortunately, ill-fitting sheets won’t help you achieve any of these things — that’s why finding the correct size is such an important part of buying bed sheets. Learn about standard sheet dimensions and different bedding types to help you find the perfect sheets for your bed.
Between flat and fitted sheets, measurements vary significantly because of their intended functions. When you consider duvets, bed skirts, and pillowcases, it becomes clear that getting the correct bedding size matters.
Before you purchase any bedding, reference the following table of bed sheet sizes in inches to ensure a proper fit.
Mattress Size | Dimensions | Fitted sheet size | Flat sheet size | Duvet cover size | Bed skirt dimensions |
Crib | 28” x 52” | 28” x 52” | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Twin | 38” x 75” | 39” x 75” | 66” x 96” | 72” x 96” | 38” x 75” |
Twin XL | 38” x 80” | 39” x 80” | 66” x 96” | 72” x 96” | 38 x 80” |
Full or double | 54” x 75” | 55” x 75” | 96” x 102” | 93” x 96” | 54” x 75” |
Queen | 60” x 80” | 60” x 80” | 96” x 102” | 95” x 98” | 60” x 80” |
King | 76” x 80” | 76” x 80” | 102” x 112” | 96” x 109” | 76” x 80” |
California king | 72” x 84” | 72” x 84” | 102” x 112” | 96” x 109” | 72” x 84” |
While there may be some slight variations in sheet dimensions, most standard sheet sizes should fit the corresponding mattress size. You may find some sheets are better suited to taller or shorter mattresses, so it’s important to measure your mattress before purchasing.
Crib sheet dimensions:
As the name suggests, crib size sheets are designed for use in cribs. Because babies, toddlers, and smaller children don’t sleep with flat sheets, you only need a specialty fitted sheet.
Crib size beds don’t require duvets or bed skirts due to compatibility issues and safety reasons.
Twin sheet dimensions:
Twin beds are the smallest and one of the most common standard bed sizes. This is because twin size beds easily fit smaller rooms and dorms. As a result, twin size sheets are available in abundance, giving buyers a large selection of colors, styles, and materials to choose from.
Fitted twin sheets are only slightly larger than the mattress, while flat sheets are over a foot wider and nearly a foot and a half longer. Duvet covers are the same length as the flat sheet but half a foot wider since they tend to hover slightly above the ground.
Twin XL sheet dimensions:
Twin XL mattresses and sheets are five inches longer than standard twins. As a result, they require their own sets of fitted sheets to match their length. A twin fitted sheet would be too short to fit a twin XL, and a fitted sheet for a twin XL wouldn’t fit snugly on a twin.
All other bed accessories are identical to their twin counterparts, so the upgrade isn’t too costly; both twin and twin XL beds make use of the same size flat sheet and duvet
Full sheet dimensions:
Double or full size beds are wider than twins but just as long. Meant for single sleepers with a little bit more floor space, full beds are the perfect choice for guest rooms and growing kids.
Full beds need wider fitted sheets than single beds, but both full and queen beds can use the same size flat sheets.
Queen sheet dimensions:
The queen bed is where buyers cross the threshold of single-sleeper mattresses into some of the best bed sizes for couples. Because of this, queen size sheets are significantly larger than double or twin alternatives.
Queen size fitted sheets are identical in size to the mattress and bed skirt measurements. The flat sheet is a bit larger, while the duvet covers are smaller.
King sheet dimensions:
King size mattresses are one of the biggest standard bed sizes available at retailers and have large sheets to match. The mattress, fitted sheets, and bed skirt all share the same measurements as the bed itself, which may seem small compared to its sprawling flat sheets.
Like all other mattress sizes, king duvet covers are slightly smaller than the flat sheet.
California sheet dimensions:
California king beds are almost identical to standard kings, except they’re two inches narrower and four inches wider. These longer kings measure 72-by-84 inches, which is similar in size to the fitted sheets and bed skirts you’ll end up purchasing for them.
Both kings and California kings share the same duvet and flat sheet sizes.
The width and length of your mattress are important when choosing bed sheets, but you should also consider mattress thickness and height.
Depending on how thick your bed is, different sheet depths will fit better. Make sure you measure accurately and double-check the measurements on sheets you’re considering. Mattress thickness and sheet depth may increase with larger bed sizes, as well.
The three most common sheet depths include:
Sheet Depth | Mattress Thickness |
Standard | Up to 12 inches |
Deep pocket | 13 to 17 inches |
Extra deep pocket | 18 inches or more |
When discussing bed sheets, most people think of thin blankets that fit loosely over your bed or are tucked under the mattress. However, there are actually several types of bed sheets on the market, with some serving purposes other than keeping you warm at night.
Fitted sheets are a type of bed covering outlined by a sturdy elastic band that clamps onto the edge of a bed. These elastic edges help hold your sheets in place, and purchasing the wrong size can make it more challenging to change your sheets.
Too-large fitted sheets won’t be able to clamp down properly on your mattress, which results in loose and saggy corners. Likewise, fitted sheets that are too small won’t have enough stretch to cover your bed correctly.
A flat or top sheet is your first line of defense against nighttime chills. These thin blankets are often larger than their fitted counterparts and act as a hygienic barrier between a person’s body and other bedding that may be added for extra warmth or aesthetic purposes.
Because of their size, flat sheets are often tucked under the mattress to avoid brushing against the floor. Some people use flat sheets instead of fitted sheets as a bottom layer, tucking the corners under the mattress, but this comes down to personal preference.
Many sheet sets include pillowcases as a hygienic and comfortable layer between your pillows and your body.
As with other bed sheets, pillowcase sizes vary depending on the size of your bed. It’s important to choose the correct size to ensure a comfortable fit. For example, a king bed pairs best with king size pillows, and smaller pillows take up less space on smaller mattresses.
Duvets are large, plush coverings that sit over your flat sheets. Because of their large size and loft, they’re often confused for quilts or comforters. Duvets may sit neatly over quilts or flat sheets for added warmth and comfort.
Duvet covers not only protect your duvet from stains and dust but also offer an aesthetic advantage. Some duvet covers may be warmer, while others are designed to increase airflow. Likewise, duvet covers come in all colors and designs to suit everyone’s preferences.
Not sure what duvet size is right for you? Check out our duvet size guide.
While you won’t find a bed skirt in many modern bedrooms, they are a mainstay in more traditional homes. Unlike the other sheets in this list, bed skirts are used exclusively for aesthetic purposes. They can cover up bed frames, platform beds, and worn-down legs while elevating a space’s overall look.
Furthermore, their interchangeable nature means you can swap them out for other colors to match different duvet covers and bed sheets. So, while they aren’t an absolute necessity for most bedrooms, they can still pull a room’s look together.
The easiest way to determine the size of a fitted sheet is to measure the width, length, and thickness of a mattress it fits snugly around.
Because of the rounded, elastic edges, measuring a fitted sheet can be challenging and may result in inaccurate measurements, but doing so may give you a good idea of what size sheet you’re using.
To measure a fitted sheet, follow these steps:
The perfect sleeping area isn’t all about the right mattress and pillow size. It’s a delicate balance that includes bedding, sheets, and other sleep-related accessories. Choosing the right bed sheet sizes ensures you can sleep comfortably without worrying about your sheets becoming untucked overnight.
If you’re looking for a better fit or want to upgrade to more luxurious bedding, select sheets that will fit snugly on your mattress and enhance your sleep experience.
FAQ
You can use a full size top sheet on a queen bed but not a fitted sheet. Fitted sheets have the same length and width as the mattress, so it’s important to use the correct size.
If you’re not sure what size mattress you have, start by measuring the length and width with a tape measure. Once you have these measurements, you can reference a bed sizes chart to identify what size you have.
Most sheets are designed for regular use, but cotton and bamboo sheets are often considered some of the softest and most durable options, depending on thread count and quality.
Your sheets may not fit your bed if:
Before you buy sheets, verify that your mattress measurements match the dimensions of the sheets. If you have an especially thick mattress, look for deep pocket or extra deep pocket sheets to ensure a snug fit. Deep pocket sheets are designed to fit thicker or taller mattresses, so they have a longer depth (measuring from the corner to the seam that rests on the top edges of the mattress).
Larger sheets will not necessarily fit a thicker mattress. If your mattress is thicker than the standard 10 to 12 inches, opt for deep pocket sheets that you can stretch around and under the edges.