Bed sheet sizes can get confusing. There used to be just three standard sizes: twin, queen, and king. But, with innovations in bed frames, the need for bed sizes to suit a wider range of living spaces, and bedding brands going international, there are now more options and size labels than ever.
So, can you fit a queen sheet on a full bed? You'll probably be able to get away with it, our bedding experts say, but it won't look great or have an optimal fit, as detailed below.
Here, our pros share what to expect if you have queen size bedding and how to swerve any bed sheet mistakes to enjoy a snug, comfortable fit.
Do queen sheets fit a full bed?
Importantly, queen bed sheets are bigger than a full bed. Full bed sheets typically measure 53 x 75 inches, whereas queen sheets are 60 x 80 inches. Therefore, queen sheets will fit a full bed, and can be used, but the fit won't be optimal.
Brooke Alexander from Nest Bedding explains, 'Technically, queen sheets can fit a full bed, but they may result in excess fabric, leading to an ill-fitting appearance. For a more tailored, snug fit, queen sheets are not ideal.'
'It’s similar to wearing clothing that’s too large – while it might be functional, it doesn’t offer the best fit or comfort.'
The main issue here is that your sheets might slide around on your mattress due to the surplus fabric. However, you can invest in one of the best mattress toppers, such as the Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Adapt + Cooling Mattress Topper Luxury Premium Foam available at Amazon, which our resident sleep expert Emilia Hitching rates the best overall choice, or use mattress protectors on your bed, to bulk out the size and help queen sheets fit better.
As Anni Stromfeld, co-founder of sustainable bedding brand SIJO advises, flat sheets can easily be tucked underneath the mattress to help manage any excess material, but fitted sheets are where you may struggle with bunching.
To solve this issue, you can use sheet straps, which work to keep fitted sheets on a bed, such as the bestselling Bed Sheet Holder Straps available at Amazon, and tighten the straps to hold the sheet as tightly and securely as possible.
All prices correct at time of publication.
With strong metal clips, these stretchy, elasticized straps keep sheets in place, for a wrinkle-free look.
This elasticated mattress topper fits snugly over your mattress, providing a soft and comfortable sleep and preventing staining.
Protect your mattress with this waterproof, quiet and breathable mattress protector.
Why is it important to buy sheets in the correct size for your bed?
Choosing the correct sheet size is essential to sleep better.
Bedding expert Alexander says, 'Choosing the correct sheet size is essential for optimal sleep quality. Sheets that are too large can cause discomfort, such as shifting or bunching, while sheets that are too small may not stay in place, disrupting your sleep.
'Well-fitted sheets also contribute to better mattress hygiene (making it easy to clean a mattress), prevent unnecessary wear on your bedding, and provide a more polished and comfortable sleep environment.'
For high-quality sheets, Alexander suggests the TENCEL™ Sheet Set + Pillowcases available at Nest. 'These sheets are made from sustainably sourced wood pulp and offer luxurious softness, moisture-wicking properties, and temperature regulation, making them an ideal choice for anyone seeking a high-quality, eco-conscious bedding option,' he says.
What to shop
Most of the best bed sheets I've tried, tested, and reviewed are available in all sizes. These are my favorite bed sheets that are highly rated on comfort, performance, and cost.
Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
Material: Bamboo lyocell
Colors: 11
OEKO-TEK certified: Yes
+ Naturally cool to the touch
+ Stylish sateen finish
- Silky look isn't for everyone
Amongst amazing eco-credentials, Ettitute sells a great range of colors and sizes. I found the bedding to be slightly bigger in ratio to most but I put that down to the silky smooth material – it stretches slightly and struggles to stay secure to the mattress. However, I think it's worth it for the perks of bamboo fabric.
Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
Material: 100% long-staple cotton sateen
Colors: 16
OEKO-TEK certified: Yes
+ Luxurious 480 thread count
+ Beautiful limited-edition colors and patterns
- Prone to wrinkling
Soft, smooth, and incredibly cozy, the Brooklinen Luxe Sateen bed sheet set is available in all sizes and lots of patterns and colors. As it's made of cotton this set is a little thicker and more durable than others. The sheets have no problem staying in place and are the correct size for standard bed sizes.
Sizes: Twin, Full, Queen, King
Material: 100% linen
Colors: 21
OEKO-TEK certified: Yes
+ Breezy and breathable
+ Softens with every wash
- Expensive
Linen is lightweight and breezy, and I love how this Piglet in Bed set sits on the bed. It is ever so slightly bigger than other queen bedding sizes but I found that this this actually helps with the breezy feel. The fitted sheets are elasticated all around, rather than just on all four corners, which is an added touch that makes a difference when it comes to making the bed.
FAQs
Is double the same as a full size bed?
Full and double beds are the same dimensions. The difference between US and UK beds is simply that 'double' is the term used in the UK, whereas 'full' is the name used in the US. Therefore, some retailers whose products are available in both the UK and the US may term their bed sheets as either double or full.
What two beds equal a queen?
A great way to avoid any things making your guest bedroom less comfortable is to have a pair of twin beds, which can be put together side by side to create an almost queen bed. The beds will measure 76 inches by 75 inches; wider but slightly shorter than a queen-size bed.
Do you know about which bedding materials to avoid? Ensure your bed is its best by following our guide on what not to do when shopping for your next sheet set.
