The standard mattress and bedding size for most college dorms are the twin XL size. That’s because twin XL can accommodate any body size and shape. But can you use a twin-size comforter on a twin XL bed?
You can use a twin comforter on a twin XL bed. However, “using” may not equate to comfort! A twin-size comforter will be about 5 inches shorter than the mattress, and you won’t be able to stretch it or tuck it in.
Let’s look at the main differences between twin comforters and twin XL comforters, how to choose your comforter, and how to correctly measure your comforter so that you get a perfect fit.
What Is the Difference Between a Twin XL and Twin bed?
When choosing between a twin XL-size bed and a twin-size bed, there are a few differences that you need to consider. Although twin and twin XL have the same width and both are made for a single sleeper, the twin XL is bigger in length, hence the XL (Extra Long) designation.
The length difference can cause some confusion when it comes to buying comforters and other bedding. Therefore, it is vital to understand the length differences between twin beds and twin XL beds.
The main difference between a twin XL and a twin bed is length. A twin XL bed is a few inches longer than a twin bed. This length difference makes a big difference for tall teenagers and college students who use twin XL beds. Twin beds, meanwhile, are fine for small bedrooms or young children.
Typically, a twin XL mattress is 39 inches in width and 80 inches in length. On the other hand, a twin mattress is 39 inches in width and 75 inches in length.
The extra 5 inches in length makes the twin XL bed and mattress more comfortable for many people. This explains why twin XL beds and mattresses are commonly used in college dormitories. The twin XL is just as long as a queen-size bed, although a queen bed is much wider. Both are 80 inches long.
Are Twin and Twin XL Comforters the Same?
The extra 5 inches on a twin XL mattress means looking for comforters with adequate length to accommodate the larger size. Some people use the same size dimensions for twin XL and twin comforters.
Therefore, your twin comforter can fit well on your twin XL bed. However, it is vital to take note of the mattress and comforter sizes.
For instance, although the exact mattress and comforter measurement components vary from one manufacturer to another, a twin XL mattress pad is usually 39 inches in width and 80 inches in length.
In contrast, a twin mattress pad is 39 inches in width and 75 inches in length. It is vital to note that these measurements refer to the dimensions of the fitted sheet or the mattress pad after it has been stretched on your mattress.
Therefore, to get a twin comforter that fits perfectly on your twin XL bed, you need to know the mattress thickness or depth and choose a comforter with an appropriate pocket depth.
The flat sheets for twin beds are typically 66 inches in width and 96 inches in length. Some manufacturers design the same flat sheet size for twin and twin XL. This allows you to interchange them. Other manufacturers design longer sheets, up to 102 inches in length, for the twin XL sizes.
The blankets sizes for twin beds average 66 inches in width and 90 inches in length. This same size can be used for twin XL-sized beds. On the other hand, twin comforters are usually 68 inches in width and 88 inches in length, while twin XL comforters are 68 inches in width and 90 inches in length. This means that twin XL comforters are longer.
The Comforter Sizing Guide: How to Choose Your Comforter
1. Review the Mattress Size
While screening for the best comforter, the mattress size is one of the most important things. It is critical to note that comforters are significantly larger in size than the mattresses that they are designed to fit.
Although many people go for comforters made for their mattress size, upgrading to a slightly bigger comforter can be ideal for getting some extra coverage and flexibility in terms of mattress size.
The table below will guide you in choosing the comforter size that is ideal for your mattress.
| Bed Type/Size | Mattress size in inches | Standard comforter width in inches | Standard comforter length in inches |
| Twin | 38 x 75 | 66 to 68 | 86 to 88 |
| Twin XL | 38 x 80 | 68 | 90 |
| Full | 54 x 75 | 81 x 84 | 86 x 88 |
| Queen | 60 x 80 | 86 x 88 | 96 x 100 |
| King | 76 x 80 | 102 | 86 x 88 |
| California King | 72 x 84 | 107 x 110 | 96 x 98 |
2. Review the Type of Comforter
Every comforter type has its pros and cons. Therefore, it’s vital to consider the comforter type that suits your needs and budget. Typically, down comforters (on Amazon) are the most popular choice when money is not an obstacle. They are lightweight, breathable, and incredibly soft.
However, they are the most expensive type of comforters.
An alternative down comforter (on Amazon) is a more affordable and cruelty-free option. It is also a great option if you are looking for a hypoallergenic comforter choice. Comforters are ideal options for cooler nights as they are thinner. They are also the best option if you are looking for a versatile choice.
3. Match the Comforter to Your Mattress
It would help if you kept in mind that comforter sizes are not standardized, even though mattresses are. Therefore, you should use your specific mattress size to choose an ideal comforter that matches your bed and mattress.
Always pay attention to the thickness of the mattress. If the mattress is on the thick side, you should go for a comforter on the larger side of the size range. You can also choose a comforter in a larger standardized mattress category.
4. Account for Your Mattress Thickness
Choosing the correct-fitting comforter can depend on the thickness of the mattress. Older and standard mattresses average a thickness of between 9 inches and 12 inches.
This means that they can work with most of the standard comforter sizes. Suppose you have a particularly thin bed such as a futon; in that case, you can get away with a more narrow comforter. This is because you need less of the comforter to cover the sides of your bed.
One ideal way to determine the comforter size that you need is to take simple thickness measurements. You should ensure that the comforter fully drapes down over the sides and end of your mattress.
How to Correctly Measure Your Mattress
Correctly measuring your mattress plays a big role in determining the mattress size you want to buy. Here is how to correctly measure your bed or mattress:
- Strip your bed of all beddings. Correctly measuring a mattress size entails measuring it from the exact edge. Therefore, the first thing you must do is remove all pillows and beddings from your bed. The bedding can get in the way and add extra width or length to your measurement.
- Grab a retractable tape measure or ruler. It’s best to use a ruler or tape that can be attached to the side of the bed while taking measurements. However, if it can not be attached or locked down, you can get the help of a family member or friend to hold the tape or ruler.
- Take the length measurement or the vertical height of your bed. This involves taking the measurement from the head or top of the bed to the foot or bottom of the bed. Write down or take note of this length measurement.
- Take the width measurement of your bed. This involves the distance from the right edge of your mattress to the left edge of your mattress. Write down this width measurement.
- Take the thickness, depth, or height measurement of your mattress. Mattresses are available in different thicknesses, and this is why you need to pay extra attention while measuring the thickness of the mattress to ensure proper fit on your bed.
Take the vertical measurement of your mattress from the bottom edge to the highest point on the top edge. You should include the size of the memory foam pad, pillow topper, or other mattress pad in the total thickness of your mattress. You should also avoid pressing down your mattress as you measure to ensure that you get the correct thickness of your mattress.
Standard Mattress Sizes
| Mattress Type | Dimension in inches |
| Twin | 38 x 75 |
| Twin XL | 38 x 80 |
| Full | 54 x 75 |
| Queen | 60 x 80 |
| King | 76 x 80 |
| California King | 72 x 84 |