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Most people associate twin mattresses with children’s beds. But who said this size can’t make a good fit for an adult room as well?
In fact, for some rooms, a twin mattress might be the only possible fit. Whatever the case, your number one task is to choose the right one.
Luckily, you have this list of 4 best twin mattresses for adults and some recommendations on how to make a choice based on your needs. Enjoy!
A Quick Preview
![]() | Best Overall — Editor’s Choice Puffy Mattress | Read more about this mattress |
![]() | Best for Combination Sleepers Zoma | Read more about this mattress |
![]() | Best for People with Back Pain Amerisleep AS3 | Read more about this mattress |
![]() | Best for Restless Sleepers Nolah Original 10 | Read more about this mattress |
Our Reviews of 4 Best Twin Mattresses for Adults
Best Overall — Editor’s Choice — Puffy Mattress
Highlights
- conforming yet responsive foam that doesn’t restrict movement;
- hypoallergenic cover to create a safer sleeping environment;
- cooling comfort foam to combat night sweats;
- cool-to-the-touch cover to achieve an enhanced cooling effect.
The Puffy is my editor’s choice for the best twin mattress due to its generous hug, ability to re-distribute weight for pressure relief, and washable cover. This all-foam mattress has that signature hugging feel so many sleepers love. And the Puffy doesn’t just cradle the body: it adjusts to every curve and prevents tension build-up. I, for one, did not experience any pressure accumulation regardless of the sleeping style I chose.
This Twin mattress would also work perfectly for sleepers who suffer from environmental allergies. The Puffy has a removable cover, which sleepers can wash. Therefore, this mattress makes keeping the allergens at bay very easy.
Read our full Puffy mattress review for more information.


Recommended for:
- Average and petite sleepers. Because the Puffy is an all-foam mattress, it has relatively weak edges. This means a bit less sleeping space. And since we’re talking about the Twin size, this model might not be spacious enough for larger sleepers given its weak edges.
- Side sleepers. The Puffy is a hugging foam mattress. Additionally, it is soft enough to offer a proper amount of cradling for side sleepers.
- Allergy-prone users. The removable cover of this mattress makes cleaning much easier. Since many allergens tend to accumulate on the surface of the mattress, sleepers can make their bedroom safer by simply taking the mattress cover off and washing it regularly.
Cons:
- mediocre edge support, which means a slightly smaller sleeping surface;
- some off-gassing may be present upon arrival.
Best for Combination Sleepers — Zoma
Highlights
- ventilated cover for increased breathability and cooler sleep;
- three-zone comfort layer for pinpoint support and pressure alleviation;
- gel-infused foam to prevent overheating at night;
- pretty responsive for a foam mattress and doesn’t feel like quicksand.
The best Twin mattress for combination sleepers has to accommodate different sleeping styles and feel relatively responsive. Luckily, that’s exactly what the Zoma can offer. This is a medium mattress that can be considered a universally comfortable model. I felt perfectly fine when sleeping on both my side and back, which proves the Zoma can satisfy different types of sleepers.
It’s also worth mentioning that this all-foam model does not feel as restricting as many competitors. This has to do with the responsive transition layer. It gave me a little boost when shifting in bed and balanced the cradling comfort layer nicely. Therefore, combo sleepers won’t feel trapped in the foam when moving in bed.
Read our full Zoma mattress review for more information.


Recommended for:
- Users seeking cool pressure relief. The Zoma is a conforming mattress that can effectively deal with the tension that’s been building up in your body. At the same time, the cooling components in the mattress should shield you from those uncomfortable night sweats.
- Combination sleepers. This model has a medium feel that should work for most combo sleepers. Additionally, it does not restrict movement and will allow you to switch positions easily during the night.
- Those who want good value for money. The Zoma mattress is a rare find, in my opinion. It uses quality components but is very reasonably priced.
Cons:
- not ideal for heavier folks;
- might not be supportive enough for stomach sleepers;
- the edges are more on the weaker side, which means you won’t be able to use 100% of the mattress’s perimeter.
Best for People with Back Pain — Amerisleep AS3
Highlights
- zoned transition layer to aid proper support and alignment;
- plant-based foam for cooler sleep and to fight off potential allergens;
- feels firmer in the middle to provide extra-sturdy support for the back;
- sleeps cooler than many foam mattresses, thanks to its open-cell design.
Looking for the best Twin mattress that could help your back feel heavenly comfortable? Then you might want to consider the AS3 by Amerisleep. Thanks to its cradling feel and a zoned transition layer, this adaptive mattress excels at pressure alleviation. That’s probably why I started experiencing less lower back pain after just one night on the AS3. The mattress made my back tension spread and dissipate, helping with pain immensely.
It’s also worth mentioning that this isn’t your typical memory foam mattress. The AS3 uses eco-friendly plant-based foam, which is safer and cooler than regular foam you can find in cheaper mattresses. It even has a slightly different feel (which I personally liked a lot): cradling and hugging but not restricting.
Read our full Amerisleep AS3 mattress review for more information.


Recommended for:
- Those seeking pressure alleviation. This model offers effective tension relief thanks to its cradling properties and a zoned layer that can aid proper spinal alignment, weight distribution, and consequently, fast pressure relief.
- Eco-conscious shoppers. The Amerisleep AS3 is a safer option than regular foam mattresses as it uses plant-based foam that is low in VOCs and safety certified. It can be an excellent solution for eco-conscious users who don’t wish to spend a fortune on a 100% organic mattress.
- Users who suffer from environmental allergies. Because the AS3 uses its plant-based Bio-Pur foam, it is more resistant to such allergens as dust mites and mold.
Cons:
- may seem too stiff to side sleepers who have sharp pressure points;
- might not work for strict stomach sleepers (may not be firm and supportive enough for this sleeping style).
Best for Restless Sleepers – Nolah Original 10
Highlights
- slow-moving foams to achieve effective motion absorption;
- above-average edge support, offering more sleeping space;
- doesn’t cause overheating without giving up close conforming and pinpoint pressure relief;
- sturdy build to ensure a long-lasting performance without straining one’s budget.
And the last option in this list of the best twin mattresses for adults is designed by Nolah. It has made it here thanks to its smart construction and awesome performance in terms of motion absorption.
The Nolah Original is an all-foam bed, and this explains its great shock-absorbing properties. Foam doesn’t transfer movements, so if you’re a restless sleeper and may wake up because of the bed’s responsiveness to your own motion during the night, this mattress is a solution.
Aside from that, the manufacturer uses its proprietary Nolah Airfoam as a comfort layer, so the bed generally sleeps neutral and won’t make you drown in your sweat even if you’re a heavy side sleeper.
Also, the Nolah mattress seems pretty durable. Thanks to the dense foam base the edges are pretty sturdy, so you can easily utilize the whole mattress surface during sleep.
The Nolah Original is recommended to those who love twin foam mattresses for their decent hug and want something that will calm their inner restless sleeper.
Read our full Nolah mattress review for more information.


Recommended for:
- Side and back sleepers. The medium-firm feel of Nolah offers a good balance between soft cradling and firm support, which may work best for those who prefer sleeping on their side or back.
- Active sleepers. If you toss and turn a lot in your sleep, the Holah will help you mask the movements, making your sleep less interrupted.
- Those who sleep hot on memory foam beds. The proprietary Nolah AirFoam has an open-cell structure and traps less heat than traditional memory foam, so you can sleep cooler.
Cons:
- might feel a bit firm for small sleepers;
- offers a significant sinkage, which can be a turn down for some.
- might feel a bit firm for small sleepers;
- offers a significant sinkage, which can be a turn down for some.
- might not be supportive enough for strict stomach sleepers, especially overweight individuals.
Our Methodology - Why I Picked These Twin Mattresses
When it comes to limited space, it’s crucial to choose a mattress that will offer you the best comfort and coolness, which is what I have specifically looked for in my best twin mattresses.
In my review methodology, I test mattresses for their ability to deliver comfort by taking apart other layers, seeing how they feel individually, and testing the layers altogether in different sleeping positions. I also try for sinkage, and how well a mattress can conform to the body and relieve pressure with different pressure tests. A mix of hands-on experience and knowledge in the field helps me choose the best twin mattresses, and I’ll be sharing more of my methodology and how I choose the best twin mattresses at the end of the article.
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.
Pros | Cons |
Doesn’t take much space in a room | Might not be spacious enough for larger or taller sleepers |
Tends to be more affordable than larger mattress sizes | Might not offer enough sleeping space for users who tend to be restless during the night |
Can comfortably fit an adult sleeper | Not ideal for sex |
Compatible with most bunk beds and makes a great space-saving solution | Not too many options among high-end models |
Easy to move and transport | |
Cheaper bedding accessories | |
Widely available in all mattress types |
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.
FAQ:
How long is a Twin mattress in feet?
A Twin mattress is 6.25 feet long, which should be enough for any individual smaller than 6 feet.
How thick is a standard Twin mattress?
The thickness of a standard Twin mattress may vary from 8 to 13 inches, but it’s always possible to find thinner and thicker models.
How much would a Twin mattress cost?
Twin mattresses cost around $600 on average, with budget models leaning closer to $400 and luxury options reaching $1,000 and more.
How much do Twin mattresses weigh?
Twin mattresses typically weigh between 35 and 90 pounds. Memory foam models are usually the lightest, ranging between 35 and 50 pounds. Hybrid and spring mattresses fall between 60 and 75 pounds in most cases. And latex models are the heaviest ones, reaching 90 pounds and more.
Where Can I Buy a Twin Mattress?
Twin mattresses can be purchased at any bed, mattress, and sleep store, big-chain store, or online. Shopping in person usually allows you to try floor models, especially if the store specializes in mattresses. However, you will always find more options online, and a plentitude of reviews to compare from and choose what’s right for you.
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.
In my opinion, the Puffy is my best twin mattress as it has a generous, slow-adaptive hug that can effectively melt tension, re-distribute weight or pressure relief and spinal alignment, and has a removable and washable cover, helping you sleep more comfortably in a cleaner space.
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!
References
- Twin Bed Dimensions: How Big is a Twin Bed? (2019, September 5) Retrieved from https://purple.com/blog/twin-bed-dimensions
- Amber Merton (n.d.) Top 10 Memory Foam Mattress Complaints. Retrieved from https://www.plushbeds.com/blog/mattress/top-10-memory-foam-mattress-complaints/
- Ahmed Radwan (2015, October 19) Effect of Different Mattress Designs on Promoting Sleep Quality, Pain Reduction, and Spinal Alignment in Adults With or Without Back Pain; Systematic Review of Controlled Trials. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29073401/
Our research
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Mattresses Considered
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Sleep Experts Consulted