7 Best Twin Mattresses for Adults

When Is It a Good Idea to Use a Twin Mattress?

A twin mattress is the smallest mattress size — for an adult, that you can find on the US market today (1).

It measures 39 x 75 inches and has enough space to accommodate a single person.

Even though queen-sized beds are a more popular choice, there are some situations in which a twin bed can make a better option:

• Guest room. If you have friends over occasionally, chances are they might want to stay overnight. A twin mattress is often a more affordable and comfortable way to accommodate your guests than a floor mattress or a couch in the living room.
• Dorms. twin mattresses are commonly used in dormitories, hostels, and other places around the United States with bunk beds for adults. That’s because they perfectly fit into bunk beds. So, if you’re a student, you may want to invest in a twin bed to make your sleep in the dorm more comfortable.
• Small apartments. Some bedrooms just aren’t big or wide enough to fit a queen bed or a sofa bed. In this case, a twin bed will help you arrange a suitable sleeping spot without sacrificing the space in your room.

A twin XL mattress measures 39″ x 80″, so it’s five inches longer than a standard twin bed (39” X 75”). It can suit tall people or those who love to stretch in bed.

Types of Twin Mattresses You Can Find Today

Now, to choose a suitable twin mattress, you need to familiarize yourself with the main mattress types.

And I can gladly help you with that.

Innerspring Mattresses

Traditional innerspring beds are still pretty common today. These mattresses feature great edge support that allows you to utilize the whole surface of your twin mattress. They usually have little give, so they are perfect for those of you who love a firmer feel. 

Additionally, innerspring mattresses don’t sleep hot. The coils inside allow for unobstructed air circulation, so spring models don’t usually retain heat and thus, work great for hot sleepers.

The main problem, however, is that coils are more prone to squeaking, which can turn into a major sleep-disrupting factor.

On top of that, spring mattresses aren’t ideal for side sleepers or users with sharp pressure points. The thing is, such mattresses don’t use much padding. That’s why they can’t usually provide enough of a hug for painful pressure points or protruding body parts. In some sleepers, this can lead to pain (for instance, those who have tender joints).

Foam Mattresses

Mattresses in this category may use memory foam, polyfoam, or other innovative foams, either separately or combined as layers of one mattress.

Despite the differences in the manufacturing process, all foam materials have similar properties. They cradle your body and can remove additional weight from your pressure points. Because foam can easily fill in the curves of the body, such mattresses can deliver pinpoint support and redistribute the tension in the body evenly.

However, the main drawback with foam mattresses is thermoregulation. They accumulate heat and might sleep hot (2).

Additionally, foam mattresses are notorious for their mediocre edge support. And weak edges usually mean less sleeping space.

Latex Mattresses

Latex is basically a vulcanized sap of rubber trees, so it also has a foam-like structure. But unlike synthetic foams, latex is breathable and sleeps cool. Also, latex mattresses are naturally resistant to mold and bed bugs, which is a plus if you’re buying a mattress for a dorm room, where the sanitation situation might be unsatisfactory. 

The main downside of latex is its price. However, since a twin is smaller and requires fewer materials, many people are still able to afford it. If you’re on a tight budget, you can always pair a cheaper mattress with a latex topper to still enjoy the benefits of latex.

Also, even though latex is quite pricey, this mattress material is among the most durable ones. Therefore, investing in one and paying a bit more can actually save sleepers more money in the long run.

Hybrid Mattresses

Hybrids combine springs, different types of foam, latex, and other less-popular materials in different variations. Generally, these beds have the most balanced feel and adapt quickly to your body shape. Also, the coil block promotes air circulation between layers and helps remove some of your body heat.

The main issue with hybrids is the inconsistency in mattress characteristics. Some materials used for making these mattresses are relatively new on the market — not to mention they can be combined in multiple configurations — which can make it hard to predict their lifespan and durability.

Dimensions of twin mattresses

The twin size mattress is a trustworthy bed that comes in different variations and dimensions, each fully suited to the user's needs. There are three levels to the dimensions of twin mattresses, and these are:

Standard twin mattresses

This kind of twin mattress is also called the single mattress, and it is one of the most popular twin mattress dimensions. With its 38 inches by 75 inches, it is one of the smallest among conventional mattress sizes. It provides enough space for the young adult or the growing child to sleep in absolute comfort. 

Its size also makes it a favorite for small bedrooms as it manages to take up little to no space.

Youth size mattresses

These are usually 33 inches by 66 inches and are basically the smallest mattress available on the market for teenagers and young children. The only mattress with a smaller dimension than the youth-size mattress is the baby crib mattress. 

Most parents and guardians even prefer not buying the youth-size mattress at all, seeing it as a waste of time and money since it will ultimately need a replacement for when the child outgrows it. Another con of the youth size mattress is that getting it on the open market can be difficult, and the only way around this at most times is to order it specially.

Twin XL mattresses

The twin XL mattress is longer than its other counterparts by 5 inches, having a dimension of 38 by 80 inches. It affords a child plenty of room to grow without a guardian having to worry about mattress durability or replacement. It is an attractive option when dealing with rooms that cannot fit a regular-sized adult mattress. Due to its size, it’s also the most common type of mattress found in dormitories.

Another advantage of the twin XL mattress is that two of it can be made into a king-size mattress with a split adjustable bed frame, making it perfect for partners or roommates who want to maintain their individuality while also being close.

How Much Do Twin Mattresses Cost?

On average, quality Twin mattresses range between $400 and $800. There are also high-end models that can cost $1,000 and more, which usually means more bells and whistles, special cooling properties, or an extended warranty.

Pros and Cons of Using a Twin Mattress for Adults

Like any other mattress size, Twins can offer both benefits and drawbacks. Learning about them can help shoppers decide whether this mattress type would work for them or not.

Final Checks to Make Before Purchasing a Twin Mattress

Finally,  let’s outline the main details you need to take into consideration if you want to choose a suitable twin mattress for an adult:

Firmness

Firmness can also affect the level of support your body will receive. And support typically goes hand in hand with spinal alignment. Not enough support, and the back will curve, experiencing tension build-up and even pain. Too much support, and the body will press hard into the mattress, developing sharp pressure points and, again, compromising the neutral spinal alignment.

So, how can sleepers achieve the appropriate support levels and choose the firmness of the mattress?

It’s simple: they need to account for their preferred sleeping style and weight.

Here are a couple of examples of how mattress firmness variations can work for different sleepers:

• Soft. Soft mattresses offer a generous hug and can gently cradle the pressure points. That’s why softer models are ideal for average and lightweight side sleepers. Softer (medium-soft) beds also work for petite back sleepers, as their weight doesn't require an overly sturdy surface. Now, it’s crucial to remember that a soft mattress still has to be supportive. After all, spinal alignment is crucial even when lying on one side and being hugged by the mattress. Therefore, softer models must include a reliable base layer (high-density memory foam or thick coils).
• Medium/Medium-firm. These levels often feel very similar. Such mattresses are rated around 5-6 on the firmness scale, with 10 being the stiffest. Medium models are ideal for average back sleepers. This firmness level allows for just enough sinkage to hug the hips and keep the back neutral. No wonder they are considered a better pick for back pain relief and sleep quality than the firmer beds (3).

  Medium firmness can also work for lightweight stomach sleepers. It should be enough to keep them in a straight line and prevent unhealthy back curvatures. Medium and medium-firm mattresses may also work for heavier side sleepers. In this case, their weight should compress the comfort layers and receive the needed cradling for the protruding body parts.

• Firm. Such mattresses offer sturdy support and minimal to no sinkage. They work the best for stomach sleepers. The thing is, this sleeping style often puts a lot of strain on the spine if the belly sinks in. Therefore, stomach sleepers need a firm surface that would keep them atop the mattress. Firm beds are also suited for overweight back sleepers. In this case, the mattress won’t give in under the sleeper’s weight that much and would keep the back in a proper alignment.

Spine Support

We’ve already determined that your weight can impact the choice of your preferred firmness level.

But there’s something else you should know:

Heavier and obese sleepers typically have excess weight concentrated in the lower abdomen and hip areas. So, their spine is more prone to going out of alignment in these regions, which can cause hip and lower back pain, especially if they sleep on their side.

To avoid this issue, try to find twin mattresses with zoned support. They’re designed specifically to keep your spine aligned and the pressure reduced. These models may feature either a zoned coil unit for targeted contouring or an additional foam pad in the lumbar area.

Durability

With a queen mattress, single sleepers can switch sides of the bed to prevent sagging.

But a twin mattress won’t allow you to do that, so you have to invest in a durable mattress to begin with.

Choose mattresses with denser foams, natural latex layers, or thicker coils, depending on the type of mattress you prefer. 

Also, consider models with a higher profile, as thin beds often wear out faster.

Thermoregulation

Hot sleeping is an issue that can wreck even the most comfortable slumber. Some beds, such as those with an all-foam construction, are more prone to trapping heat. Mattresses with coil layers, on the other hand, allow for some airflow inside the layers, so they may sleep cooler.

To choose a cooler bed, follow these tips:

• Give preference to natural materials. Latex is the king of breathability. If you cannot afford an all-latex mattress, try to find models that have at least one latex layer — this will still give you a cooler sleep than a traditional memory foam bed.
• Avoid overly soft foams. Softer foams can make you sink deeper, thereby increasing the area of contact between your body and the mattress. Thus, you’ll be more likely to sleep hot even if the foam is infused with cooling particles.
• Look for a breathable mattress cover. The difference between synthetic jacquard and quality-made cotton really shows. Opting for a more breathable cover is crucial because the cover can promote additional airflow and wick away moisture from your body, contributing to your comfort.

Note that very cheap twin mattresses are often made of low-quality foam and tend to sleep really hot. So, be careful when considering more affordable options.

One more important tip for you:

Read the actual mattress reviews with real photos and detailed experience. 

You may also want to find reviewers with similar demands so that you can get a better idea of how a particular model may perform in your particular situation.

Edge Support

Twin is not a common choice among adults as this size does not offer that much legroom. That’s why sturdy edges can be super important when looking for a good Twin mattress, especially if you are a larger adult (or like the starfish sleep position). Now, in most cases, spring and hybrid mattresses perform the best when it comes to edge support. Firm and extra-firm foam mattresses can sometimes have reliable edges too, but keep in mind that this firmness level might not work for all sleeping styles (on one side, for example).

Thickness

The thickness of the mattress can often determine the level of comfort and support it can provide.

As a rule of thumb, thinner models don’t offer that much cradling, as they typically have thin comfort layers. Additionally, thin Twin mattresses might not be that supportive either, especially for heavier folks. 

It’s also worth mentioning that thin Twin mattresses tend to develop sags faster than their thicker competitors.

Therefore, shoppers are usually advised to choose Twin mattresses that are at least 8 inches thick.

In-home sleep trial

A Twin mattress can work for adults in theory, but this size might not be ideal for all. Some users find Twin mattresses too narrow, short, or simply not thick and comfortable enough. That’s when a free sleep trial can come in handy. It allows shoppers to sleep on their new mattress (usually for around 100 days) and return it if needed. This could save shoppers from unnecessary stress when trying to choose a good Twin mattress.

Wrapping Up

Even though twin-sized beds today are mostly used in children’s bedrooms, they still have a place in the adult world. A twin mattress makes a great pick for small spaces or guest rooms, as well as for those who are looking for something more budget-friendly. Be sure to choose models with sturdy edges — because you'll need the whole mattress surface — and consider your firmness preferences and health issues to make the right pick.

Now, as for my personal favorite, I would love to recommend the all-foam mattress by Nectar. This model has everything needed to achieve high comfort levels and restful sleep. The Nectar is cradling and relieves pressure effectively, but it isn’t likely to cause overheating (unlike most memory foam mattresses). The Nectar also offers great value for money. It’s well-made and promises durability in use, which is also an excellent bonus. Therefore, the Nectar mattress would certainly be a worthy investment.

So, why are you looking for a twin mattress? Do you plan to use it for your guest room or to sleep on it yourself? Feel free to share below!