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Written by
Lauren Fountain
The full – or double – is one of the six standard mattress sizes. Although dimensions vary by model, most full size mattresses measure 53 to 54 inches wide and 75 inches long. These dimensions fall between a twin XL and queen, making the full a mid-range size. It’s an ideal choice for single sleepers who want a roomier sleep surface compared to a twin or twin XL, but still want to conserve floor space. Full size mattresses will be too narrow for most couples, and won’t be long enough for people who stand taller than 6 feet 3 inches.
To select our top picks for the best full mattresses sold today, we’ve focused on qualities and performance metrics that matter most to solo sleepers. These include durability, pressure relief, edge support, and temperature neutrality. Since full mattresses are generally more affordable than larger sizes intended for two people, sticker price and overall value also came into play.
We’ve summarized our findings in the mattress profiles below and awarded a unique accolade to each top pick based on areas where that mattress performed particularly well. Our guide to full mattresses also includes detailed information for first-time buyers. Scroll down to learn about the pros and cons of full size mattresses, how they compare to other sizes, and who should consider buying one.
Best Overall
The Nectar is an all-foam mattress constructed with three memory foam layers. These include two comfort layers made of open-cell material that conform closely and respond slowly, creating a deep, pressure-relieving cradle as your body sinks beneath the surface. The third memory foam component is a bit denser, and acts as a transitional layer to prevent you from sagging too deeply. The Nectar also contains a support core made from robust high-density polyfoam. Compared to other all-foam models, the Nectar offers above-average edge support and great overall stability.
Like other memory foam mattresses, this model is very suited to people who constantly feel pressure points in their shoulders, hips, and other sensitive areas. Despite the Nectar’s medium firm feel, the foam layers cushion the body to align the spine for side sleepers. The mattress is also supportive enough to keep back and stomach sleepers on an even plane without sinking too much beneath their heavier areas. The Nectar may also be a good choice if you share your full size mattress with another person. The surface absorbs motion and eliminates nearly all transfer across the surface, and the bed itself does not produce any noise.
The Nectar’s price-point is very affordable for a memory foam bed. The company also offers a 365-night sleep trial and lifetime warranty, both of which are much longer than average. Standard ground shipping is also free for anyone in the contiguous U.S.
Best Value
The DreamFoam Chill is one of the most versatile mattresses made today. You can choose from five different profiles ranging from 6 to 14 inches, each one with a distinct firmness level. All versions of the mattress are constructed with comfort layers of gel-infused memory foam that contours evenly to the body, and denser polyfoam support layers to prevent sleepers from sinking excessively. Strong performance in several areas coupled with an affordable price-point makes the Chill a great option for mattress shoppers with tight budgets.
The 6-inch and 8-inch models offer the firmest feels (6 to 7 on the 10-point scale) and won’t conform very closely. These are best suited to back and stomach sleepers who weigh more than 230 pounds. The 10-inch model has a medium (5) feel, making it the most balanced option. Sleepers who weigh 130 to 230 pounds will likely prefer these models regardless of sleep position. The 12-inch and 14-inch models are considered medium soft (4) and soft (3), respectively, so side sleepers who weigh up to 230 pounds will probably find them most comfortable.
While each profile features a unique design, the Chill provides excellent motion isolation for couples no matter which thickness you prefer. The foam layers absorb movement and practically eliminate transfer across the surface. A Nano Stain Terminator finish on the cover protects the mattress from spills and liquid damage.
Size selection is another strong point. The mattress is available in a total of 22 sizes, including hard-to-find options like full XL, Olympic queen, short king, and split California king. You can also choose from seven different sizes intended for RVs or bunk beds.
The DreamFoam Chill is affordably priced in all profiles. Brooklyn Bedding provides free ground shipping anywhere in the contiguous U.S. and backs the mattress with a 120-night sleep trial. Those who decide to keep it after the trial expires will also receive a 10-year warranty.
Best for Back Pain
The WinkBed is a model that is available in different firmness levels. You can choose a medium soft, medium firm, or firm feel for the standard WinkBed, which is constructed with layers of gel-infused polyfoam and pocketed minicoils over a support core of pocketed coils. The standard WinkBed owes its highly responsive surface to the coil-on-coil design. The coil layers promote strong airflow to keep the mattress cool, as well.
If you weigh more than 230 pounds, then you may want to consider the WinkBed Plus. This firm variation of the standard WinkBed is specifically designed for people in this weight group. Instead of pocketed minicoils, the WinkBed Plus contains layers of gel-infused polyfoam and breathable latex. The latex is divided into firmness zones for enhanced support to your lower back and hips, and light cradling for the head, neck, and legs. The support coils in all versions of the WinkBed are also zoned, with thicker coils reinforcing the perimeter against sinkage and thinner coils beneath your body. This ensures maximum edge support without the mattress feeling too stiff.
The WinkBed’s price-points put the mattresses on par with the average hybrid model. WinkBeds offers free ground shipping within the contiguous U.S., along with White Glove delivery for an added charge. The WinkBed and WinkBed Plus are backed by 120-night sleep trials and non-prorated lifetime warranties.
Most Comfortable
The DreamCloud is a hybrid model that features comfort layers of polyfoam and gel-infused memory foam, along with a transitional polyfoam layer. The mattress has a medium firm feel, resulting in a moderate yet even body contour that promotes spinal support and pressure relief.
The DreamCloud also has a support core of individually-wrapped coils reinforced with high-density base foam. Altogether, the mattress measures 14 inches tall, making it much thicker than the average mattress. Certain types of sleepers – particularly those who weigh more than 230 pounds – tend to have an easier time getting on and off high-profile models because they are not too close to the floor.
The DreamCloud’s thick coils provide excellent stability and support. Most people will notice very strong reinforcement along the edges when getting on and off the mattress, and the surface should be easy to move across without sinking too much. Temperature control is another major strength. The coils promote steady airflow to keep the mattress cool, and the DreamCloud’s cover is crafted from a breathable fabric blend that includes moisture-wicking cashmere.
This model has a very reasonable price given its luxurious components and sophisticated design. The DreamCloud is backed by a generous 365-night sleep trial and a lifetime warranty with no prorated period. Shipping is free for all customers in the contiguous U.S.
Best Cooling
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The Layla Hybrid is a reversible model and both sides of the mattress are constructed with memory foam comfort layers. One sleep surface has a medium soft feel and conforms very closely to the body. You’ll sink quite a bit on this side, creating an ideal feel for many side sleepers and individuals who weigh less than 130 pounds. The opposite side offers a firm feel with minimal contouring and strong support. This surface is better suited to people who weigh more than 230 pounds, back and stomach sleepers, and other individuals who need more reinforcement and stability from their mattress.
The memory foam layers are infused with copper, which has cooling properties and can minimize the buildup of body heat on both surfaces. The shared support core, which contains thick pocketed coils, also generates strong airflow to help the mattress maintain a comfortable temperature. The support core is zoned, as well. Higher-gauge (thinner) coils rest beneath your body to promote a comfortable balance of cradling and support, while lower-gauge (thicker) coils line the perimeter and prevent excessive sinkage when you get on and off the mattress.
The Layla Hybrid is available at a reasonable cost for any memory foam hybrid – let alone a flippable model with two firmness levels. Layla provides free shipping throughout the contiguous U.S., as well. The Layla Hybrid is backed by a 120-night sleep trial and a 10-year warranty.
Best for Side Sleepers
The Tuft & Needle Hybrid is constructed with a comfort layer of adaptive, open-cell polyfoam infused with graphite and other cooling materials. The surface has a medium feel and the foam conforms more closely than the polyfoam layers found in other competing hybrids. This allows side sleepers and people weighing less than 130 pounds to feel comfortable. The Tuft & Needle Hybrid also contains a minicoil comfort layer, along with a pocketed coil support core. These two layers create a very responsive and supportive feel that makes the mattress more comfortable for back and stomach sleepers up to 230 pounds.
Like other hybrids, this model also provides a very balanced feel. The adaptive foam absorbs movement from sleepers to mostly eliminate motion transfer across the surface, and the coil layers are relatively silent when bearing weight. As a result, the mattress is a good option for people who don’t mind sharing a full size with their partner and wake up easily. The coil-on-coil construction also gives the mattress good springiness, making it suitable for couples who enjoy responsive beds for sex. Edge support is very strong, as well. You shouldn’t feel much sinkage when getting on and off the Tuft & Needle Hybrid, provided you weigh 230 pounds or less.
This mattress has a price-point that is on par (if not slightly lower) than that of the average hybrid model. Tuft & Needle also ships the hybrid for free anywhere in the contiguous U.S. You’ll receive a 100-night sleep trial and 10-year warranty, as well.
Best for Heavy Sleepers
Use this SleepFoundation.org link for the most current discount on Brooklyn Bedding mattresses
Sleepers who weigh more than 230 pounds often need the right balance of comfort and support to have a restful night’s sleep. The Titan Firm Hybrid from Brooklyn Bedding is designed to provide just that. At an 8 on the firmness scale, this mattress is truly firm, but has enough give to provide cushioning and pressure relief for sleepers in this weight group.
The topmost layer is made from gel-infused memory foam that’s quilted into the cover and feels plush. Beneath that rests 2 inches of TitanFlex, a proprietary polyfoam that hugs your body enough to relieve pressure but not so much that you sink deeply into the mattress. The pocketed coil core is 6 inches thick and provides substantial support across the entire surface, including the edges. The final layer is crafted from high-density polyfoam and provides a durable base.
The Titan Firm Hybrid is a great pick for hot sleepers, since air doesn’t get trapped easily within the mattress’ layers. Sleepers who want added temperature regulation can choose to have a cooling panel sewn into the cover. While this will add to the overall cost, this mattress’ price-point still falls below-average for a hybrid.
Brooklyn Bedding gives you up to 120 nights to try the Titan Firm Hybrid as well as a 10-year warranty. Free shipping is available to addresses within the contiguous U.S.
Best Pressure Relief
Sleepers who feel sharp pressure points along the spine can benefit from using a memory foam mattress, but many high-quality foam beds carry steep sticker prices. The Brentwood Home Cypress is a notable exception to this trend. The mattress is available in two profiles, an 11-inch model that’s considered medium firm (6) and a medium (5) 13-inch model, and both options are fairly affordable in a full size compared to similar all-foam mattresses from competing brands.
The comfort layer consists of memory foam infused with charcoal, which has natural cooling properties and can prevent the surface from absorbing excess body heat. Dense polyfoam makes up the transitional and support layers to reinforce the comfort layer and prevent you from sinking too much. People who weigh less than 130 pounds should consider the softer 13-inch design while the 11-inch model provides more support for people in the range of 130-230 pounds. In addition to these two all-foam options, the Cypress is available as a hybrid model with pocketed coils if you require extra support.
Thanks to the Cypress’ all-foam construction, the mattress excels at motion isolation for couples. This means you and your sleep partner shouldn’t experience any disturbances when the other person changes positions or gets up during the night. Brentwood Home’s strong track record for environmentally friendly practices should also appeal to consumers who prefer buying sustainably made products.
Brentwood Home’s sleep trial spans one year in length. If you aren’t satisfied with your initial firmness and/or thickness selection, you may exchange the mattress for free during the trial period. Shipping is free throughout the contiguous U.S. and every owner receives a 25-year manufacturer’s warranty against structural defects.
The Sleep Foundation team has tested hundreds of mattresses, drawing on years of experience in the sleep product industry to help determine the best mattress for all types of sleepers. Our team includes various body types as well as side, back, stomach, and combination sleepers to ensure that our findings represent as wide an array of sleepers as possible.
In our search for the best full size beds on the market, our testers laid on each mattress and moved around the surface to evaluate criteria such as firmness and support. We performed tests and used special tools to measure temperature neutrality, pressure relief, and motion isolation. You will find the top results of our research in the mattress picks above.
As with mattresses of any other size, selecting the right full size model requires a bit of research on your part. Read on to learn about different factors to look for when choosing your full mattress.
Brand and product research is essential for finding the best full size mattress. Every individual model offers a unique sleep experience, and is designed for people with certain body types, sleep positions, and firmness preferences. Keep that in mind as you visit mattress websites and read product descriptions. Some brands have the tendency to infuse misleading and hyperbolic descriptions into their onsite advertising. Be especially wary of claims that a mattress is suited for any type of sleeper, that it will last forever.
Instead, we recommend using these attributes to guide your full size mattress search.
Full size mattresses usually measure 53 to 54 inches wide and 75 inches long. Some brands use “double” for this size instead, but the terms are interchangeable. Fulls are about 14 to 15 inches wider than a standard twin or twin XL. While still a little too narrow for most couples, this extra width ensures ample room for solo sleepers. However, it’s important to note that anyone who stands taller than 6 feet 2 inches (74 inches) may not have enough room for their legs and feet on a full size bed.
Toddlers and Kids: Full size mattresses are a good option for children and toddlers, especially if your kiddo wants a larger bed to themselves. Fulls are a bit pricier than twin and twin XL models, but costs are usually reasonable, and they take up less floor space than queens, kings, and California kings. Select twin-over-full and full-over-full bunk beds are available, as well.
Teenagers: A full size mattress can be ideal for teenagers, especially if they tend to move around in their sleep. Bedroom dimensions may be an issue, though, since teenagers’ rooms tend to be on the smaller side. Typically, teens need a firmer mattress than toddlers and children because they weigh more and require added support.
College Students: While a full mattress may not be ideal for exceptionally small dorm rooms, this size should work in a decently sized suite or apartment bedroom. Students who stand taller than 6 feet 2 inches may want to consider a twin XL for the added legroom and extra floor space.
Single Adults: If you normally sleep alone, then a full size mattress should provide adequate space without taking up too much room. Many people find the full sleeps a single sleeper and a dog or cat rather comfortably, but adding a second person into the equation may feel too cramped for all involved.
Those with Guest Rooms: Like the twin and twin XL, a full size mattress is a good option for guest bedrooms because it takes up a minimal amount of floor space and shouldn’t cost too much. However, the mattress will probably only sleep comfortably for one overnight guest.
A standard full size mattress measures 53 to 54 inches wide and 75 inches long. Its width is best suited to single sleepers. Couples who don’t mind getting cozy may feel comfortable, but most will find a full size too narrow. The length of a full size mattress is optimal for people who stand 6 feet 2 inches or shorter.
A standard queen measures 60 inches wide and 80 inches long. Due to its wider and longer dimensions, a queen can comfortably sleep two people, as well as individuals who stand 6 feet 7 inches or shorter. However, queens take up more floor space than fulls, and – in most cases – also have higher price-points.
Every mattress size carries its own list of pros and cons. Some notable benefits and drawbacks of full size mattresses are outlined below.
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Mattresses sold today fall into one of five general categories based on material content and design: hybrid, innerspring, latex, airbed, or memory foam. Each mattress type excels in some areas and underperforms in others. The trick to finding the best double mattress is determining which attributes are most important to you. Check out our detailed look at each mattress type below for more details.
Definition: A hybrid is a specialized type of coil mattress designed to provide a balance of contouring and support. These models usually have comfort layers of polyfoam, memory foam, latex, and other conforming materials. The support core almost always consists of individually pocketed coils.
Pressure Relief with Added Support: Due to their all-encompassing designs, hybrids offer consistent performance in a wide range of areas. Their thick comfort layers conform and cushion the body to align the spine and reduce pressure and back pain. Hybrids also sleep reasonably cool thanks to air-circulating coils, and edge support is typically very strong.
Definition: A traditional innerspring is built with thin comfort layers of polyfoam and/or memory foam and a thick support core containing steel coils. As the name implies, these mattresses feel very “springy” on the surface. Innersprings are the most widely sold mattress type among U.S. consumers, as well as the cheapest on average.
Extra Bounce: An innerspring is ideal for anyone who wants a highly responsive mattress. You won’t feel much of a contour due to the thinner comfort layer(s), but innersprings are easy to move across because they don’t sink excessively. Edge support is usually quite strong, as well, so you’ll have an easier time getting in and out of bed.
Definition: Latex is a material composed from the sap of rubber trees mixed with chemical fillers. When processed into a foam material for mattresses, latex contours a bit but also feels fairly responsive. The material is very durable, as well. You can expect to sleep on a latex mattress for at least eight years until a replacement is needed.
Sink-Free Contouring: While memory foam contours very closely and evenly, a common complaint is that the material sinks too much. Latex offers comparable conforming but its natural responsiveness prevents you from sinking deeply beneath the surface. Additionally, latex is more breathable than foam and won’t absorb or trap as much body heat.
Definition: Airbeds are designed with two or more air chambers in their support cores. You can add or release air from any chamber to adjust the firmness in different areas of the sleep surface. Airbeds may also have comfort layers of polyfoam, memory foam, and/or latex. On average, airbeds are the most expensive mattress type.
Exceptional Customization: Many people would rather sleep on a softer mattress one night and a firmer one the next. Airbeds are an ideal choice for these individuals. On high-quality airbeds, you can choose from dozens of firmness levels, and many are designed with dual-firmness options for couples whose preferences differ.
Definition: An all-foam mattress features comfort layers of polyfoam, memory foam, or a combination of both materials. Most models also contain transitional and support layers made from denser foam material. All-foam beds provide unparalleled body-conforming, allowing you to sink into the surface of the mattress. Like innersprings, these models tend to have below-average price-points.
Targeted Pressure Relief: People who frequently feel pressure points should consider an all-foam mattress. This is particularly true for side sleepers who experience pressure due to irregular spinal alignment. Back sleepers and stomach sleepers also benefit from the contouring of an all-foam mattress, provided the support system is robust enough to keep them on an even plane.
Now that we’ve discussed the dimensions and price expectations for a full size mattress, as well as important considerations for mattress buyers, you’re almost ready to go pick out a bed. But before you do, take a gander at these common questions regarding full size models.
If you’re buying a full size mattress for yourself, you should select a model based on your body weight, sleep position, and general firmness preferences. Keep in mind that most – but not necessarily all – sleepers who weigh less than 130 pounds prefer a softer feel with more conforming, while most people who weigh 230 pounds or more need more support from their mattress.
Finding the best full mattress for kids can be a bit trickier. If you’re buying the mattress for a teenager or child, make sure to include them in the research process. Visiting a mattress store to test out beds with different firmness levels and materials is often the best way to determine proper firmness, whether the bed is for you or someone else.
While they aren’t very common, some bunk beds are compatible with full size mattresses. These include twin-over-full and full-over-full models. If you’re choosing a full size mattress for a bunk bed, make sure to check the bed’s listed weight capacity. This figure includes the sleepers and their mattresses, so heavier full size beds may not be the best option.
Additionally, you should take thickness into account when choosing a bunk bed mattress. Guidelines from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission state that a mattress should be at least 5 inches shorter than the guard rails on top bunks; otherwise, sleepers may be at risk for falling off the bed.
In addition to different mattress models, you should also compare brands for shipping costs, return policies, and warranty coverage.
Online mattress brands usually offer free ground shipping throughout the contiguous U.S., and some also provide free delivery to Alaska, Hawaii, and/or Canada. White Glove delivery, which includes in-home assembly and old mattress removal, typically costs at least $100 extra, but a few brands offer this service for free, as well.
Mattresses sold online almost always come with a sleep trial of 90 nights or longer. In some cases, you’ll need to sleep on the bed for up to 30 nights before you can return or exchange it. Returns are almost always free, but some brands charge fees.
All mattresses come with a warranty, and the vast majority of warranties cover the bed for at least 10 years. For a non-prorated warranty, you won’t pay anything to have a defective mattress repaired or replaced apart from some minor shipping fees. Prorated warranties require you to pay a percentage of the bed’s original sticker price if a defect develops and a replacement is needed.
Common defects covered under a mattress warranty include surface-level sagging and impressions of a certain depth (usually 1.5 inches or less), physical flaws in the mattress assembly that lead to early wear and tear, and manufacturing defects with the cover. Other issues will probably not be covered under warranty.
Our product experts have extensive experience testing just about every sleep product on the market. Send an email to [email protected] with your questions and we’ll help you find exactly what you’re looking for.
Certified Sleep Coach
Lauren is a Certified Sleep Science Coach with extensive experience researching and testing a wide variety of sleep products.
Certified Sleep Coach
Lauren is a Certified Sleep Science Coach with extensive experience researching and testing a wide variety of sleep products.
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