OMF Blog

The Complete Guide to Full-Size Mattresses: Understanding Your Options and Making the Right Choices

Written by The Original Mattress Factory | Sep 11, 2025 8:34:03 PM

When it comes to choosing a mattress size, Full-size mattresses are often overlooked in discussions that focus on Queen and King sizes. However, Full mattresses serve a crucial role in the sleep market, providing a practical solution for many sleepers. Whether you're furnishing a guest room, accommodating a growing teenager, or working with space constraints, understanding Full-size mattresses—and the unique options available—can help you make the best decision for your needs.

Understanding Full-Size Mattress Dimensions

Let's start with the basic measurements that define Full-size, also known as double, mattresses:

Standard Full Mattress

  • Width: 53 inches (4 feet, 5 inches)
  • Length: 75 inches (6 feet, 3 inches)
  • Surface Area: 3,975 square inches

 

Full XL Mattress (Available at OMF)

  • Width: 53 inches (4 feet, 5 inches)
  • Length: 80 inches (6 feet, 8 inches)
  • Surface Area: 4,240 square inches

 

The Full XL is a specialty size that combines the width of a standard Full with the length of a Queen mattress. This unique option provides an additional 5 inches of length compared to a standard Full, making it ideal for taller sleepers who don't need the extra width of a Queen.

Comparing Full Sizes to Other Mattress Options

To better understand where Full mattresses fit in the sizing spectrum:

  • Twin: 38" x 75"
  • Twin XL: 38" x 80"
  • Full: 53" x 75"
  • Full XL: 53" x 80" (Available at OMF)
  • Queen: 60" x 80"
  • King: 76" x 80"

 

The Full mattress offers 15 inches more width than a twin, providing significantly more sleeping space while maintaining a compact footprint. The Full XL option bridges the gap between standard Full and Queen sizes, offering Queen-length comfort in a space-saving width.

Who Should Consider a Full-Size Mattress?

Full-size mattresses are ideal for several specific situations:

  1. Solo Sleepers Who Want Extra Room

For individuals transitioning from a twin bed, a Full mattress provides substantial additional space for stretching out, changing positions, and overall comfort without requiring the floor space of a Queen.

  1. Guest Room Solutions

Full mattresses strike an excellent balance for guest rooms, providing comfortable accommodation for solo guests while still allowing couples to sleep together when needed, albeit more cozily.

  1. Teenagers and Young Adults

As children outgrow twin beds, a Full mattress provides the space they need while fitting in bedrooms that might not accommodate a Queen.

  1. Space-Constrained Bedrooms

In apartments, condos, or smaller homes where a Queen might overwhelm the room, a Full mattress allows for other essential furniture while still providing a comfortable sleep space.

  1. Taller Solo Sleepers (Full XL)

The Full XL is perfect for individuals who need the extra length of a Queen but don't require the additional width, maKing it ideal for narrow but long bedroom spaces.

The Full XL Advantage: A Unique Option

At the Original Mattress Factory, we recognize that standard mattress sizes don't work for everyone. That's why we offer the Full XL—a specialty size that many retailers don't carry.

Why Choose Full XL?

Perfect for Tall, Single Sleepers: If you're over 6 feet tall but sleep alone, the Full XL provides the length you need without the extra width (and cost) of a Queen.

Space Optimization: In narrow bedrooms or studio apartments, the Full XL maximizes sleeping length while maintaining a smaller footprint than a Queen.

Guest Room Flexibility: The Full XL accommodates tall guests comfortably while still fitting in compact guest rooms.

Transitional Size: For young adults moving out on their own, the Full XL provides grown-up comfort without requiring a larger bedroom setup.

Full vs. Queen: Making the Right Choice

The decision between a Full (or Full XL) and Queen mattress often comes down to several key factors:

Choose a Full or Full XL if:

  • You sleep alone and want to maximize floor space
  • Your bedroom is under 10 x 11 feet
  • You're furnishing a guest room or a teenager's room
  • Budget is a primary consideration
  • You prefer a cozier, more intimate sleeping space

 

Choose a Queen if:

  • You sleep with a partner regularly
  • You have children or pets who join you in bed
  • Your bedroom is 10 x 12 feet or larger
  • You prioritize maximum personal sleeping space
  • You frequently use your bed for activities beyond sleeping

 

The Original Mattress Factory Advantage for Full-Size Mattresses

Whether you choose a standard Full or our unique Full XL option, OMF provides several advantages:

  1. Local Manufacturing

Our Full-size mattresses are built right here in your community, ensuring quality control and supporting local jobs.

  1. Factory-Direct Pricing

By manufacturing locally and selling directly to you, we eliminate middleman markups, making quality Full-size mattresses more affordable.

  1. Two-Sided Construction

Many of our Full-size mattresses feature two-sided design, allowing you to flip and rotate them for more even wear and extended lifespan.

  1. Size Flexibility

With both standard Full and Full XL options, we can accommodate your specific space and comfort needs.

  1. Quality Materials

Our Full-size mattresses use the same premium materials as our larger sizes, including natural cotton upholstery and high-density foams.

Bedding and Accessories for Full-Size Mattresses

Standard Full Bedding (also referred to as ‘Double Bedding’)

Full-size bedding is widely available and typically more affordable than Queen or King options. However, selection may be somewhat more limited than Queen sizes.

Full XL Bedding Considerations

Full XL bedding requires specifically sized sheets and mattress protectors. While less common than standard sizes, Full XL bedding is available for purchase at any of our showrooms.

Essential Accessories:

  • Mattress protector sized for your specific Full mattress
  • An appropriate box spring or platform base
  • Bed frame designed with a center support that extends all the way to the floor
  • Pillows that complement your sleep position and comfort preferences

 

Making Full-Size Work for Couples

While Full mattresses are primarily designed for solo sleepers, couples sometimes choose this size due to space or budget constraints:

Tips for Couples on Full Mattresses:

  • Choose a high-quality mattress with good motion isolation
  • Consider separate pillows and lighter bedding to reduce sleep disturbance
  • Ensure the mattress provides adequate edge support
  • Maintain realistic expectations about personal space

 

When Full XL Makes Sense for Couples:

The additional 5 inches of length in a Full XL can be beneficial for taller couples who can manage the width but need the extra legroom.

Caring for Your Full-Size Mattress

Full-size mattresses require the same care as larger mattresses:

Regular Maintenance:

  • Rotate every 3 months (flip if two-sided)
  • Use a quality, waterproof mattress protector
  • Address spills immediately
  • Ensure proper support from box spring or platform

 

Signs It's Time to Replace:

  • Visible sagging or body impressions
  • Waking up with aches and pains
  • Poor sleep quality or frequent tossing and turning
  • Metal protruding from the sides of the existing mattress

 

Making Your Decision: Full vs. Full XL vs. Other Sizes

When deciding on a Full-size mattress, consider these questions:

  • How tall are you? If you're over 6 feet, the Full XL might be worth the small additional investment.
  • How do you use your bed? If it's purely for sleeping, a Full might suffice. If you read, work, or relax in bed, consider the extra space of a Queen.
  • What's your room size? Measure carefully and visualize both the mattress and necessary walking space.
  • Is this temporary or long-term? A quality Full or Full XL can serve you well for many years.
  • What's your budget for the complete setup? Remember to factor in bedding, frame, and foundation costs.

 

The Original Mattress Factory Experience

At the Original Mattress Factory, we understand that choosing the right mattress size is a personal decision that depends on your unique needs, space, and preferences. Our experienced sales associates can help you explore both standard Full and Full XL options, explaining the benefits of each and helping you determine which works best for your situation.

What Sets Us Apart:

  • Size Options: We offer both standard Full and the unique Full XL size
  • Local Manufacturing: Every mattress is built in your community
  • Factory Tours: See exactly how your mattress is made
  • No-Pressure Environment: Our staff focuses on education, not sales – buy when it is right for you
  • Quality Construction: Premium materials and time-tested techniques
  • Consistent Pricing: No sales gimmicks or inflated prices

 

Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect Full-Size Match

Full-size mattresses, including the specialty Full XL option, serve an important role in the sleep market. They provide comfortable, space-efficient solutions for solo sleepers, guest rooms, and anyone working with space or budget constraints.

At the Original Mattress Factory, we're committed to helping you find the right size and construction for your needs. Whether you choose a standard Full for its compact efficiency or a Full XL for its unique length-width combination, you'll get the same quality construction, local manufacturing, and true factory-direct value that defines everything we do.

Don't let size constraints compromise your sleep quality. Visit an Original Mattress Factory showroom today to experience our Full-size options and discover how the right mattress—in the right size—can improve your sleep and your life.

Written by: Chris Gardner, OMF Marketing