5 signs you need a queen size mattress, not a king

A woman sleeps on a mattress placed on a grey box spring
(Image credit: Getty Images)

If you’re in the market for a new mattress, then you may be feeling totally overwhelmed by the sheer choice on offer. As well as choosing what type of mattress you need, you also need to think about the size - and it could come down to deciding between a queen size or king size mattress. 

When it comes to picking the best mattress size for you, there are other factors to take into consideration such as the space in your bedroom, how many people or pets are sleeping in the bed, and not forgetting your height and weight. 

In the US, a queen size mattresses measures 60” x 80” (160cm x 200cm) making them slightly narrower but not longer than a king size mattress, which measures 75” x 80” (180cm x 200cm). Here, we'll walk you through the common signs a queen is the best size bed for you. With the Memorial Day mattress sales right around the corner, now is one of the best times to upgrade you mattress. 

5 signs you need a queen size mattress, not a king

1. You value your floor space

Queen size mattresses are narrower than king size which means what you you're going to benefit from that extra bit of floor space in your bedroom. Don’t be tempted to go for a king size mattress just because it fits, sometimes even the best king size mattress in a smaller room can make it look cramped. And if you’d prefer the extra space for other furniture or just to be able to move around easier, then opting for a queen size mattress is the only way. Also, that bit of extra room will allow you to rotate your mattress every six months so you stay on top of your mattress maintenance. 

2. You sleep alone 

When it comes to having enough sleeping space, a queen size bed is plenty big enough for one. If you’re sleeping alone you’ll have plenty of room to spread right out - so why pay for more bed that you don't need? Even if you’re sleeping with a partner, a queen size mattress is still the perfect size for couples or if you sleep with a pet and you won’t find yourself sleeping on the edge, unless of course that’s how you like to sleep. Plus, a smaller mattress gives you the perfect excuse to snuggle up to your sleeping partner, whether that be another human or your beloved furry friend. 

3. You're on a budget

Purple Mattress Labor Day sales

(Image credit: Purple Mattress)

King size mattresses are bigger, which mean they tend to cost more. Because queen size mattresses are slightly smaller, that means they’re cheaper. However, they still provide get exceptional levels of comfort and support without draining your bank account. And those extra savings can be spent on treating yourself to some new bedding, so don’t forget to check out our round up of the best bedding sales to save  even more money. 

4. You like feeling cozy

King size beds are lovely, but they can feel a bit cold and overly spacious - especially if you sleep alone. If you like being warm and snug then there’s no better size mattress than a queen size (it's the most popular mattress size in the US for good reason). If you're a hot sleeper and worried that sleeping in a smaller space with another person may cause you to overheat, you can always look out for a good cooling mattress that will help keep your temperature at a comfortable level. 

5.  You're not particularly tall 

Queen size mattresses are the perfect choice for all shapes, sizes and types of sleeper. But if you're  average height or even on the shorter side, then you don't need that extra bit of room that comes with a king size mattress. In fact, you'll find you fit in to the queen size mattress a lot more comfortably, meaning that you'll enjoy a more restful and comfortable sleep. Side sleepers will also find a queen mattress the ideal choice, there's plenty of room for you to lie on your side and even curl your legs up so there's not much point in paying for that extra space. 

TOP 3 QUEEN SIZE MATTRESSES TO SHOP TODAY

Nectar memory foam mattress: $1,099

Nectar memory foam mattress: From $1,099 $649 from Nectar Sleep
The Nectar memory foam, one of our best memory foam mattresses, has a medium-firm tension and is perfect for a variety of sleepers, especially back and stomach sleepers. This mattress is ideal for couples thanks to its exceptional motion isolation, which means if you sleep with a restless partner you're unlikely to feel them shifting around in your sleep. Hot sleepers will appreciate the breathable cover and a gel-infused layer, which will help to regulate temperatures. Nectar mattress sales are frequent, but can vary. Right now, there's 40% off , which comes with a 365 night home trial, forever warranty and free shipping and returns, which are industry leading benefits.

Saatva Classic Mattress:$2,095  

Saatva Classic Mattress:From $2,095  $1,795 at Saatva 
We deem the Saatva Classic to be the best mattress you can buy right now, and you can read why in our Saatva Classic mattress review. It comes in three firmness levels and has a choice of two heights, so it feels like a bespoke bed. It suits a range of sleeper and body types and the luxury hybrid offers all the support and comfort that you need. Plus, if you sleep hot, the use of coils will improve the airflow through the mattress and let you sleep cooler, whether you're sleeping solo or with someone else. Whilst it is a little on the pricey side, there's always some kind of Saatva mattress sale in play. Plus, you do get 365 nights to try it out as well as free white glove delivery which means they'll deliver and set up in a room of your choice. And that's not all, there's free old mattress removal and a lifetime warranty. 

Dreamcloud mattress: $1,331

Dreamcloud mattress: From $1,331 $649 at Dreamcloud
When it comes to a luxurious queen size mattress at an incredibly competitive price, look no further than the DreamCloud mattress. It's has outstanding level of support and pressure relief making it suitable for all types of sleeper, but especially side sleepers. During our DreamCloud mattress review, our tester found the motion isolation is outstanding so if you have a fidgety partner you can say goodnight to restless nights. Hot sleeper? The combination of coils and a breathable cashmere blend quilted top cover will keep you super cool all night long. Yes, this is a mattress that punches way beyond its price tag (check out our DreamCloud mattress sales hub for the best discounts). There's a 365 night home trial, forever warranty and free shipping and returns included in this mattress. 

Rachael Penn
Contributor

Rachael is a freelance journalist based in South Wales who writes about lifestyle, travel, home and technology. She also reviews a variety of products for various publications including Tom’s Guide, CreativeBloq, IdealHome and Woman&Home. When she’s not writing and reviewing products she can be found walking her Sealyham and West Highland terrier dogs or catching up on some cringe-worthy reality tv.