There are many factors to consider when deciding which mattress size to purchase. If space and money are concerns for you, it might be a good idea to consider a full mattress.
Since full mattresses are smaller than queen beds, they are generally too cramped for couples and individuals over 6 feet tall. However, full mattresses can be a great solution for single adults, children, and teenagers.
We’ll highlight our top picks for full mattresses, covering the construction and performance of each, as well as which mattresses work best for different sleep positions. We’ll also discuss the best choices for those with back pain and those who need additional pressure relief.
Find Your Perfect Mattress
We know mattresses work differently for different types of sleepers. Use the filters below to help narrow down your options for your best bed.
Read on to see why the following five options made our top picks list of 2024’s best full mattresses.
Sleep Doctor’s Picks
Best Overall Mattress
WinkBed
The Sleep Doctor’s Review
The versatile WinkBed luxury hybrid is available in four firmness levels, including a “Plus” model specifically designed for people who weigh more than 230 pounds. All versions of the mattress feature zoned coils that push back against your midsection and cradle lighter areas of the body.
Buy From WinkBeds
Combination Sleepers
Soft, Medium Firm, Firm, Extra Firm Options
Full Surface
Good Value
Pros
- Four firmness levels
- Design option for sleepers weighing 250 pounds or more
- Zoned coils for targeted support
Cons
- Responsive design can minimize motion isolation
- Limited pressure relief for side and back sleepers under 130 pounds
The WinkBed is an innerspring mattress with four firmness options: medium soft (4), medium firm (6), firm (7), and Plus (8). The cover is made of a eucalyptus Tencel fabric, which is designed to pull heat and moisture away from the sleeper. Beneath that, the construction varies depending on the firmness option. For the firm and medium firm models, the comfort layer consists of a Euro-top cover with gel-infused foam. The medium soft model includes an extra layer of foam and a polyfoam transition layer.
Why We Like It
The Winkbed Plus (8) model is designed for sleepers who weigh 250 pounds or more. Our testers over 230 pounds liked this firmness option best. The medium firm (6) and firm (7) mattresses are good options for sleepers of most positions and body weights.
The WinkBed is a great option for a full mattress that provides good support and sleeps cool. With its variety of firmness levels, it’s likely to work well for just about any sleep style or weight range.
How Does It Feel?
High-density polyfoam replaces foam in the Plus (8) model’s comfort layer. The model also uses a layer of latex.
In all four mattresses, the support core consists of zoned pocketed coils that provide extra support to relieve pressure points.
Best Value Mattress
Nectar Mattress
The Sleep Doctor’s Review
The all-foam Nectar mattress is both well designed and affordable. The true medium firm (6) feel allows side and back sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds to lie comfortably without sinking too much, and all orders include a year-long sleep trial.
Buy From Nectar
Back Sleepers
Medium Firm
Edges Sink a Bit
Great Value
Pros
- All-foam construction helps isolate motion
- Comfortable for most sleep positions
- Provides excellent pressure relief
Cons
- Responsive design can minimize motion isolation
- Limited pressure relief for side and back sleepers under 130 pounds
The Nectar Mattress is an all-foam mattress with a medium firm (6) feel and a 12-inch profile. The memory foam and high-density polyfoam in its construction help to isolate motion and relieve pressure points, making it a good choice for couples and anyone looking for a mattress that provides excellent cushioning.
Why We Like It
Like many foam beds, the Nectar offers heightened relief for pressure points. The mattress is designed to cradle the body and remove tension from joints and muscles. In addition, our tests showed that the Nectar isolates motion well, minimizing disturbances when one partner moves.
While this mattress works well for most sleep positions and body weights, our testers over 230 pounds who sleep on their stomachs or backs reported that the Nectar felt too soft for them.
The Nectar Mattress is a great fit for hot sleepers looking for solid pressure relief. Its price-point also makes it accessible for a broad range of shoppers.
How Does It Feel?
The comfort layer consists of 2 inches of gel-infused memory foam designed to promote temperature neutrality. The 3 inches of polyfoam in the transition layer provide cushion and stability. High-density polyfoam makes up the support core and provides a durable and sturdy foundation.
Most Comfortable Mattress
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid
The Sleep Doctor’s Review
Brooklyn Bedding’s Signature Hybrid combines the even contouring of adaptive foam with the strength of steel pocketed coils. Three firmness levels ranging from medium soft (4) to firm (8) mean most people can find a comfortable option regardless of weight or sleep position.
Buy From Brooklyn Bedding
Side Sleepers
Medium Soft, Medium Firm, Firm
Edges Sink a Bit
Great Value
Pros
- Three firmness options
- Foam layers closely cradle the body
- Coils promote airflow
Cons
- Hot sleepers
- Sleepers who experience painful pressure points
- Shoppers on a budget
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid is a hybrid model composed of foam and coils. The bed is available in three firmness options that correspond to medium soft (4), medium firm (6), and firm (8) on a 10-point firmness scale.
Why We Like It
The Signature Hybrid caters to all body types, thanks to the variety of firmness options. That said, sleepers over 230 pounds may find the firm model most comfortable. Most testers who sleep on their side enjoyed the cushioning in the medium soft and medium firm models.
How Does It Feel?
The bed starts with a quilted surface followed by a layer of memory foam that cradles the body. Next is a layer of VariFlex polyfoam that feels firmer than memory foam while still providing some contouring. The medium soft and medium firm models have thicker quilting than the firm model, creating a plush surface, while the firm model has a thicker VariFlex layer than the other models to enhance support. All models contain an 8-inch support core made of pocketed coil springs.
Best Luxury Mattress
Saatva Latex Hybrid
The Sleep Doctor’s Review
The Saatva Latex Hybrid is a durable, responsive luxury mattress with a medium firm (6) feel to accommodate most people weighing 130 pounds or more. Zoned transitional and support layers help keep your body aloft, and breathable materials make the mattress appealing for hot sleepers.
Buy From Saatva
Hot Sleepers
Medium Firm
Full Surface
Fair Value
Pros
- Very good edge support
- Performs well for most sleep positions
- Free White Glove delivery on orders in the contiguous U.S.
Cons
- Fairly expensive compared to the average latex hybrid
- Minimal motion isolation can cause sleep disturbances for couples
The Saatva Latex Hybrid is a hybrid mattress with a medium firm (6) feel and a 12-inch profile. A breathable cover made with certified sustainably sourced organic cotton encases the mattress. The top layer consists of a fire-resistant organic wool that wicks moisture away and is engineered to regulate temperature.
Why We Like It
Our tests showed that the Saatva Latex Hybrid is best suited for back and stomach sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds. However, side sleepers under 130 pounds may require a softer mattress for better pressure relief. All of our other testers in a wide range of body weights and sleep positions reported that they felt supported and comfortable on the Latex Hybrid.
Made with high-end, luxury components, the Saatva Latex Hybrid works particularly well for back and stomach sleepers. Its eco-friendly materials will likely appeal to shoppers looking for something both durable and certified organic.
How Does It Feel?
In the comfort layer, 3 inches of aerated Talalay latex provide contouring and responsiveness. The support core includes zoned pocketed coils that reinforce the perimeter of the bed and make it easy to move on the mattress. The final layer is a cotton-wool base pad that helps provide stability.
Best Mattress for Side Sleepers
Nolah Natural 11
The Sleep Doctor’s Review
The Nolah Natural 11 features two latex layers over a support core of zoned pocketed coils. Our tests show the medium firm (6) feel delivers adequate support for most back and stomach sleepers, while the latex offers ample cushioning to reduce pressure for side sleepers.
Buy From Nolah
Side Sleepers
Medium Firm
Full Surface
Good Value
Pros
- Excellent temperature control
- Combination of Talalay latex and zoned coils for contouring and support
- Well suited for most sleep positions and body weights
Cons
- Responsive design means higher potential for motion transfer
- Too firm for most side sleepers under 130 pounds
The Nolah Natural 11 is a medium firm (6) latex hybrid mattress. Its name comes from the fact that it stands 11 inches tall.
Why We Like It
Most of our testers reported that the Nolah Natural 11 was comfortable and provided good pressure relief regardless of their body weight and sleep position. However, side sleepers over 130 pounds, back sleepers under 230 pounds, and stomach sleepers under 130 pounds had the most positive reactions.
Because of its breathable materials, the Nolah Natural 11 has excellent temperature control, making it well suited for those who sleep hot. We also found that the zoned coils provided good support by targeting specific areas of the body. The mattress components are durable, and our tests showed that the mattress has minimal off-gassing, which is the “new mattress” smell that sometimes occurs when you first take a mattress out of the box.
The Nolah Natural 11 is a good fit for side sleepers looking for a full mattress that provides great temperature control. Our testers also appreciated its balance of pressure relief and support.
How Does It Feel?
This hybrid mattress has a cover made from certified organic cotton and wool. Underneath, there are three layers in total. The comfort layer consists of 2 inches of Talalay latex, which promotes breathability and adds bounce. Next is the transitional layer, which is made of an additional inch of Talalay latex. In the support core, 8 inches of zoned pocketed coils provide motion isolation and contouring.
Why You Should Trust Us
Our testing team evaluates each mattress we rank to determine how it performs in various sleep categories. Our researchers use their extensive experience to understand and convey the details of each product so that we can bring you the most accurate information possible.
When evaluating full size mattresses, our team considers numerous criteria — including sleep position, body weight, and temperature control — to help you decide which model is mostly likely to give you a good night’s sleep.
Who is a Full Mattress Best For?
A full mattress is larger than a twin but not as big as a queen. Twin mattresses are ideal for kids or people with limited space, while queen mattresses best suit couples or other co-sleepers. Since it fits in between these two sizes, a full mattress is best for teens, single adults, and those with small spaces or guest rooms.
Full-size mattresses are slightly bigger than a twin but smaller than a queen. They are generally made for one person, making them great options to save space in a guest room or a teen’s bedroom.
- Teenagers: A teenager may outgrow a twin bed and need something more substantial. A full mattress is small enough to take up limited space but large enough to accommodate an individual needing a roomier mattress.
- Single Adults: A single adult who feels too big for a twin bed may find that a full mattress meets their needs. Full mattresses are ideal for accommodating one person, and they take up less space compared to queen beds. However, individuals over 6 feet tall may find full mattresses too small.
- Those with Guest Rooms or Small Spaces: A full mattress is small enough to save space but big enough to allow most visitors to sleep comfortably.
Pros | Cons |
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What is the Difference Between a Full and a Queen?
The main difference between a full mattress and a queen mattress is the size. A full mattress typically measures 54 inches wide and 75 inches long, while a queen mattress measures 60 inches by 80 inches.
In addition to size, a queen mattress is also heavier than a full mattress, making it harder to move and transport. Full mattresses are designed to sleep one person, while a queen bed can comfortably accommodate two sleepers. And because they are smaller, full mattresses typically have a lower price-point than queen mattresses.
It’s also important to note that queen mattresses are more common than full mattresses. If you’re looking to purchase a full, you may have fewer options than if you were looking for a queen.
Full vs. Queen | |
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Sleeping Space | A queen takes up more space than a full. It also has more surface area to sleep on since it’s longer and wider. |
Availability of Accessories | You should be able to easily find accessories for both mattress sizes. However, because queen is a more popular size, there may be more variety in accessories for a queen versus a full mattress. |
Price | Generally, a queen bed will cost more than a full bed. That said, some companies do charge the same amount for both sizes. |
Mattress Weight | Because they are bigger, queen mattresses weigh more than full mattresses. This can make them harder to lift and move. |
What You Should Know About Buying a Full Mattress
Before purchasing a full mattress, double-check its measurements to determine if the bed will fit in your sleep space. Refer to the mattress’ measurements to find a suitable bed frame and bedding.
Bedding and Bed Frame Sizes
Check the manufacturer’s website to find the dimensions of your full mattress. These measurements will help you secure the right size sheets and other bedding. Typically, a full mattress is 54 inches wide and 75 inches long.
Doorways, Hallways, and Room Size
While a full mattress is a space saver, you’ll still want to confirm that it will fit into your sleep area. This includes making sure it can fit through the doorway and any hallways leading to the bedroom. Measure your area to figure out the best way to move the mattress in and where you should place it. Keep in mind that while many beds come in a box and can be unboxed in your room, your mattress will still need to fit through doorways if you move or want to replace it with a new mattress.
Mattress Weight, Mattress Type, and Movability
The manufacturer’s website will also include the mattress’ weight. This can help you determine how many people you will need to help move it. The mattress’ materials can also determine its movability. For example, denser materials like latex are heavier and harder to move than lighter materials like foam.
About The Author
Certified Sleep Science Coach, Director of Product Testing
David is a Certified Sleep Science Coach with a lifelong passion for well-being and health optimization. His interest in sleep developed with the arrival of his son, when sleep suddenly became a precious commodity.
- POSITION: Side Sleeper
- TEMPERATURE: Hot Sleeper
- CHRONOTYPE: Lion
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