Despite the name, a twin size mattress is designed for one person to sleep comfortably, not two people. Lots of people confuse the meaning of a twin size bed, thinking the term “twin” refers to two people. So how did they get their name?
Years ago, there was no such thing as picking out a king size or queen size bed, they simply didn’t exist. Beds were manufactured for one person or two, take your pick. A bed for two people became known as a “double” bed, while a bed for one was a “single”. Times changed, and many people were looking for matching single beds for their homes. So the term “twin bed” was used to describe matching single beds.
Their popularity really took off in the mid 20th century as many popular television shows featured their stars relaxing on a twin bed mattress. So rather than a husband and wife sharing one larger bed, they had unattached “twin” sized beds with headboards and footboards. Naturally, this increased consumer demand for twin mattress sets.
Over time, the need for standard dimensions was needed. Until the rise in popularity, there were any number of mattress sizes. Twin size mattress dimensions are now considered 39″ wide and 75″ long. In a bed this size, a 6 feet tall person would only have 3″ before their feet hung over the end! You can work out the twin bed dimensions in feet by dividing by 12. For this reason, twin size mattresses are available in twin xl mattress dimensions or 80″ in length.
How much does a twin mattress cost? If you are comparing twin size mattress prices, you will have no shortage of options to make your choice. However, there are a few things to keep in mind. Once you have decided on a twin sized mattress (size), you will be faced with lots of other choices. Next, you need to decide how firm you would like your new mattress.
Depending on the manufacturer, you will be faced with decisions like Firm, Plush, Pillow Top, Euro Top and Box Top. These terms refer to the “top” surface of the mattress that will be directly underneath you while you sleep. Each of these provides a different firmness or softness depending on what you like.
Mattresses basically have 3 different components: Upholstery layers, innerspring coils, and box springs (or foundation). The upholstery layers account for most of the twin mattress prices. Commonly referred to as “padding”, this accounts for anywhere from 3-8″ in extra height. If you are seeking a discount twin mattress only, the materials used for the upholstery layers will be inferior to more expensive models.
The innerspring coils are the heart of the mattress and provide the even distribution of your weight when you lay down. Some manufacturers will use more coils in their more expensive models and less coils in their less expensive ones. Some are consistent and offer the same coil support, regardless of price.
Some models use box springs while others use a foundation. These springs act as a “shock absorber” for your mattress. It is understood that a good box spring will add years of life to your twin bed mattress. A foundation is similar but has no moving parts. With modern technology such as memory foam mattresses, a foundation is the better choice.
Shop around, and make sure you get the right mattress for you, not everybody agrees what’s best. But remember, a twin size mattress only sleeps one, not two – at least comfortably!