Comforter Sizes

What size should a comforter be?

The dimensions of a comforter are based on the size of the mattress.  Length, width and even depth of the mattress will affect what size is called for.  When the bed is made, a comforter should be able to cover the entire bed surface.  Not only that, but it must also drape at the foot of the bed and over the two sides.  This covers the mattress completely and provides a nice look. Having a large comforter also ensures there is enough coverage as a blanket when in use.  The size a comforter should be is bigger than the mattress.

Comforter Sizes and Dimensions Chart

Comforter Width Size

How wide comforters should be is based on the width of the respective mattress sizes plus the mattress height.  A standard mattress thickness ranges from 10-12 inches, though some are as short as 6” or as tall as 16”.  This measurement is important because whatever the mattress height is will determine what extra width the comforter should be.  A 12-inch mattress will need an extra 12” of comforter (on each side) in order to cover the sides of the mattress.  For thicker mattresses, simply use a tape measure from the top of the mattress down to get appropriate width size.

Comforter Length Size

Comforter size in terms of length is done similarly to the width calculation.  The difference is that with the length, there is no need to multiple by two.  Customarily, the head of the bed will not need any drape as it is either halted by a headboard or a wall.  This covers the head-end of the bed.  That leaves only the foot end to require coverage by the comforter.  To get the length needed, use the depth of the mattress plus the length of the mattress.  This will give you a suitable length for the comforter size.

Oversized King Comforter Size

There are many different oversized comforter sizes which hinge on which oversized bed it is meant for.  For instance, terminology stating a product is an oversized king comforter could mean it is one of multiple “king” sizes.  It could be a simple King or California King.  It could also be a size made to fit the Wyoming King, Texas King, or the Alaskan King mattress.  The dimensions of an oversized king comforter depend on which large size mattress it was made for.  An Alaskan King comforter is 132”x120”, a Texas King comforter is 104”x110” and a Wyoming King is 108”x96”.

California King Comforter Size

(96″ W x 96″ L)

Though sometimes a California King is grouped into the oversized category, it is actually a standard size bed.  The California King Comforter size measures 96” wide and 96” long.  That is adequate to cover the entire bed surface along with the sides and foot of the mattress.

 King Comforter Size

(100″ W x 92″ L)

The king comforter size has measurements of 100”x92” to accommodate the wider mattress.  This size comforter can be used on a one-piece king or on a split king mattress.  Because this is not a custom size, these comforters come in a greater amount of designs.

Queen Comforter Size

(84″ W x 92″ L)

For a traditional queen mattress, the comforter should be at least 84” wide.  This accounts for a 12” overhang on each side.  It also provides an allotment of 12” extra length over the mattress length.  For thicker mattresses, a larger comforter may be needed.

Full XL Comforter Size

(78″ W x 92″ L)

There are two bed sizes that feature the title Full, so pay notice when shopping for bedding.  Comparing a Full XL mattress to a Full size one, the XL is longer by five inches.  So, a Full XL comforter will also be longer.  This comforter size is 78”x92”.

Full Size Comforter Size

(78″ W x 87″ L)

This is the other Full, considered the traditional or classic Full. The mattress is shorter so the comforter size is as well.  The Full comforter size dimensions are 78”x87”.  When a mattress is 12 inches or fewer thick, this is a good size.

Twin Size Comforter Size

(62″ W x 87″ L)

One of the most affordable comforter sizes is the Twin.  It is small at just 62” wide and 87” long.  This size is usually used by one person at a time.  It is often selected as part of a child or young adult’s bedroom.

Conclusion

The largest comforter size is the one made to fit an Alaskan King.  The smallest standard comforter is generally produced for the Twin size bed.  There are many sizes in between these.  Analyzing the mattress size, both length and width is the first step in choosing the right comforter size.  However, it is essential not to overlook the importance of mattress height in establishing which comforter size is required.  Adding mattress height and length allows for sufficient comforter length.  Multiplying mattress height by two and adding its width gives the comforter width needed to ensure the edges are covered.