Comforter Sizes Guide

A comforter plays a key role in your bedroom environment, providing visual appeal as well as much-needed warmth. As the uppermost bed covering, your comforter should be big enough to accommodate both the mattress and everyone on it. Otherwise, you may toss and turn throughout the night as you try to readjust your bedding.

When choosing a new comforter, you may wonder how to pick the ideal size. To help you figure it out, we share the dimensions of comforters in the most popular sizes. You’ll discover the possible variations within each category and learn why substituting a different size comforter may or may not work. Then, we’ll explain how to accurately measure your mattress and important factors to consider to help you purchase the best comforter for you.

Comforter Size Dimensions

Comforters are categorized according to standard mattress sizes to make it easier to find an option that perfectly fits your bed. However, a comforter’s dimensions differ from those of the mattress because it’s designed to drape over the sides. Many come in varying widths and lengths to accommodate beds of different profiles. 

Comforter Sizes Chart

Twin vs. Twin XL Comforter

The main difference between twin and twin XL comforters is length. While both are typically the same width, twin XL comforters are several inches longer to accommodate the extra length of a twin XL mattress—often used in college dorms. Choose a twin XL comforter if you’re outfitting a twin XL bed or if you want extra comforter on the bed to snuggle up in.

Full vs. Twin XL Comforter

Full comforters are wider, while twin XL comforters are longer. A full comforter is better suited for a wider mattress and can often accommodate two sleepers, while a twin XL comforter is ideal for taller individuals sleeping solo on a twin XL bed. Consider how much width or length you need to decide which offers the best fit and comfort.

Queen vs. Full Size Comforter

Some comforters are sized to fit either a queen or a full size mattress. In such cases, knowing the dimensions of your mattress is extremely helpful in ensuring a proper fit. 

When a bedding manufacturer differentiates between full and queen sizes, a queen size comforter is typically slightly longer and wider. While a queen size comforter can be used on a full size mattress, it is likely to drape down on either side. A comforter designed specifically for a full size mattress provides inadequate coverage when used on a queen size mattress. 

King vs. Queen Size Comforter

A king size comforter is significantly wider than a queen size to accommodate a larger mattress. A queen size comforter can’t effectively accommodate a king size bed and provide enough room for sleepers. However, a king size comforter can be used on a queen mattress, although the excess fabric on each side may create an unpolished appearance. 

King vs. California King Comforter

King comforters are wider, while California king comforters are longer. This reflects the difference between king and Cal king mattresses—one prioritizes width, the other length. If you have a Cal king bed, a Cal king comforter will better cover the foot of the mattress without leaving it short. Likewise, a standard king comforter is best for king beds to ensure full side-to-side coverage.

Standard vs. Oversized Comforters

Standard comforters are made to fit the mattress size exactly, while oversized comforters offer additional width and length for extra drape. Oversized styles are a great choice if you prefer more coverage on the sides or want a luxurious, layered look. Opt for oversized if your bed sits high, if you share your blanket with a partner, or if you just enjoy a cozier, tucked-in feel.

How to Choose a Comforter Size

Considering your mattress size is a handy starting point when searching for a comforter. However, it’s important to consider other factors, such as the depth of your mattress, the height of your bed frame, and how far you want the comforter to drape down the sides.

Mattress Size and Thickness

If you have a thicker mattress, you may prefer more generous comforter dimensions. On the other hand, you might favor a smaller comforter if you have a low-profile bed and don’t want your bedding dragging on the ground.

Accurate measurements of your mattress are crucial when looking for a comforter that fits your bed. Use a measuring tape to check the width, length, and height of your mattress. 

To determine a comforter width that will completely cover the sides of your mattress, multiply the measured mattress height by two and add it to the measured width. For instance, if your mattress is 15 inches high and 60 inches wide, you’d need a comforter 90 inches wide to cover both sides. If you want a comforter that drapes more over the sides or leaves extra room for the bed’s occupants, add a few inches. 

Bed Frame Height

Your bed’s height plays a big role in choosing the right size comforter. Higher bed frames or mattresses with deep profiles often require larger or oversized comforters to ensure full coverage down the sides. If your bed sits lower to the ground, a standard comforter may provide just the right amount of drape without pooling on the floor.

Drape Length

Drape length refers to how far a comforter hangs over the sides of the bed. Some people prefer a shorter, more tailored look, while others enjoy a longer drape for a cozy, hotel-style aesthetic. If you like your comforter to cover the sides and foot of the bed generously—or need it to hide under-bed storage—opt for a comforter labeled “oversized” or choose the next size up.

Budget

Comforters are available in a wide range of price points, so it’s important to assess your budget and determine what you can afford. Larger sizes typically carry higher price tags, but the materials and construction also affect the final cost. For instance, down comforters and cooling comforters tend to be more expensive due to the cost of their components.

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