Comforter Size Guide: What Are The Dimensions of a King, Queen, and Full Size Comforter? | Sleep Foundation (2024)

A comforter plays a key role in your bedroom environment, providing visual appeal as well as much-needed warmth. As the uppermost bed covering, your comforter should be big enough to accommodate both the mattress and everyone on it. Otherwise, you may toss and turn throughout the night as you try to readjust your bedding.

When choosing a new comforter, you may wonder how to pick the ideal size. To help you figure it out, we share the dimensions of comforters in three popular sizes. You’ll discover the possible variations within each category and learn why substituting a different size comforter may or may not work. Then, we’ll explain how to accurately measure your mattress and important factors to consider to help you purchase the best comforter for you.

Comforter Size Dimensions

Comforters are categorized according to standard mattress sizes to make it easier to find an option that properly fits your bed. However, a comforter’s dimensions differ from those of the mattress because it’s designed to drape over the sides. Many come in varying widths and lengths to accommodate beds of different profiles.

King vs. Queen Size Comforter

A king size comforter is significantly wider than a queen size to accommodate a larger mattress. A queen size comforter can’t effectively accommodate a king size bed and provide enough room for sleepers. However, a king size comforter can be used on a queen mattress, although the excess fabric on each side may create an unpolished appearance.

Queen vs. Full Size Comforter

Some comforters are sized to fit either a queen or a full size mattress. In such cases, knowing the dimensions of your mattress is extremely helpful in ensuring a proper fit.

When a bedding manufacturer differentiates between full and queen sizes, a queen size comforter is typically slightly longer and wider. While a queen size comforter can be used on a full size mattress, it is likely to drape down on either side. A comforter designed specifically for a full size mattress provides inadequate coverage when used on a queen size mattress.

How to Choose a Comforter Size

When it’s time to buy a comforter, be sure to consider the size and height of your mattress, as well as your budget, to make an informed decision.

Mattress Size

Considering your mattress size is a handy starting point when searching for a comforter. However, it’s important to consider other factors, such as the depth of your mattress, the height of your bed frame, and how far you want the comforter to drape down the sides. If you have a high-profile mattress or an especially tall bed frame, you may prefer more generous comforter dimensions. On the other hand, you might favor a smaller comforter if you have a low-profile bed and don’t want your bedding dragging on the ground.

How to Measure Your Mattress

Accurate measurements of your mattress are crucial when looking for a comforter that fits your bed. Use a measuring tape to check the width, length, and height of your mattress.

To determine a comforter width that will completely cover the sides of your mattress, multiply the measured mattress height by two and add it to the measured width. For instance, if your mattress is 15 inches high and 60 inches wide, you’d need a comforter 90 inches wide to cover both sides. If you want a comforter that drapes more over the sides or leaves extra room for the bed’s occupants, add a few inches.

Budget

Comforters are available in a wide range of price-points, so it’s important to assess your budget and determine what you can afford. Larger sizes typically carry higher price tags, but the materials and construction also affect the final cost. For instance, down comforters and cooling comforters tend to be more expensive due to the cost of their components.