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Best Full Mattress:
Space-Saving Picks

UPDATED

Written by David Rubin

Expert Tested

Table of Contents

A full size mattress, also known as a double mattress, checks in at 54 inches wide and 75 inches long. A full bed can be a great option when a twin bed is too small but a queen bed is either too expensive or won’t fit in your bedroom. Single adults, some couples, teenagers, and children alike may prefer a full bed.

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Best Full Mattress

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WinkBed

We chose the WinkBed for best full mattress, because of its four firmness options and robust hybrid design. Zoned coils offer tailored support, and a reinforced perimeter lets you take advantage of the entire mattress surface.

The Best Full Mattresses

Best Overall Mattress – WinkBed

Best Value Mattress – Nectar Mattress

Most Comfortable Mattress – Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid

Best Luxury Mattress – Saatva Latex Hybrid

Best Mattress for Side Sleepers – Nolah Natural 11

With hundreds of full mattress models on the market, picking the best one might feel difficult. To simplify the process, our testing team created a list of the best full size mattresses. If a full mattress is too small for your needs, read our guide to the best queen mattresses. We also have a guide to the best mattresses of 2024.

Read on to see why the following five options made our top picks list of 2024’s best full mattresses.

Sleep Doctor’s Picks

WinkBed Mattress Luxury Firm
WinkBed Mattress Luxury Firm

Best Overall Mattress

WinkBed

Dr. Michael BreusReviewer Picture

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
Ideal For:

Combination Sleepers

Firmness:

Soft, Medium Firm, Firm, Extra Firm Options

Surface Usage:

Full Surface

Value:

Good Value

Pros

  • Choice of four firmness options
  • Special model available designed for sleepers who weigh over 250 pounds
  • Zoned coils provide stability and targeted support

Cons

  • Polyfoam can lack contouring for people who want a deep-hug feel
  • Finding comfort is dependent on choosing the right firmness option

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.

Read our full WinkBed review
TSD_NectarMattress_1
TSD_NectarMattress_1

Best Value Mattress

Nectar Mattress

Dr. Michael BreusReviewer Picture

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
Ideal For:

Back Sleepers

Firmness:

Medium Firm

Surface Usage:

Edges Sink a Bit

Value:

Great Value

Pros

  • Medium firm (6) feel works for most sleep positions
  • Gel-infused memory foam cushions pressure points to promote spinal alignment
  • Comes with a 365-night sleep trial

Cons

  • May lack support for back and stomach sleepers over 230 pounds
  • Contouring foam can reduce ease of movement on the mattress surface

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.

Read our full Nectar Mattress review
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Most Comfortable Mattress

Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid

Dr. Michael BreusReviewer Picture

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
Ideal For:

Side Sleepers

Firmness:

Medium Soft, Medium Firm, Firm

Surface Usage:

Edges Sink a Bit

Value:

Great Value

Pros

  • Coils provide a stable base and allow cooling airflow
  • Quilting, memory foam, and polyfoam provide pressure relief without excess sinkage
  • Available in three firmness options

Cons

  • Softer models can lack support for sleepers over 230 pounds
  • Returns are assessed a $99 processing fee

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.

Sleep Doctor's proprietary photo of the Saatva Latex Hybrid
SD_SaatvaLatexHybrid_3
Sleep Doctor's proprietary photo of the Saatva Latex Hybrid
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Best Luxury Mattress

Saatva Latex Hybrid

Dr. Michael BreusReviewer Picture

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
Ideal For:

Hot Sleepers

Firmness:

Medium Firm

Surface Usage:

Full Surface

Value:

Fair Value

Pros

  • Reinforced perimeter provides strong edge support
  • Responsive latex enables ease of movement and resists heat buildup
  • Free White Glove delivery is available in the contiguous U.S.

Cons

  • Movement may travel, especially relative to most foam mattresses
  • Comes with a higher price than some latex hybrid mattresses
  • Returns come with a $99 return shipping fee

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.

Read our full Saatva Latex Hybrid review
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Best Mattress for Side Sleepers

Nolah Natural 11

Dr. Michael BreusReviewer Picture

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
Ideal For:

Side Sleepers

Firmness:

Medium Firm

Surface Usage:

Full Surface

Value:

Good Value

Pros

  • Notable bounce and temperature regulation from two latex layers
  • Zoned coils provide additional support and responsiveness
  • Works well for most sleep positions and body weights

Cons

  • May feel too firm for side sleepers who weigh under 130 pounds
  • Bouncier materials can cause increased motion transfer

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.

opening quote icon 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. opening quote icon
Dr. Michael Breus, Clinical Psychologist, Sleep Medicine Expert and Combination Sleeper

Who Is a Full Size Mattress Best For?

A full size mattress is 54 inches wide and 75 inches long. The dimensions of a full size mattress tend to work best for:

  • Teenagers who may be outgrowing a twin size mattress
  • Single adults, especially if they like to stretch out when sleeping or want space for a pet to sleep in bed with them
  • Couples who like to cuddle, have smaller body types, or don’t mind feeling a bit cramped
  • People who have limited floor space in a small bedroom, apartment, or guest room

A full size mattress can work for young children, but might not be necessary, since they usually have plenty of space on a twin bed.

A full size mattress is too small for couples who want a roomy mattress that lets them spread out and easily move around in bed. The length of a full size mattress can also be insufficient for taller people. People over 6-feet tall may want a twin XL, queen, or king size mattress to prevent their feet from hanging off the bed.

Full vs. Queen Size Mattress

A queen size mattress is larger than a full size mattress. The dimensions of a queen mattress are 60 inches wide by 80 inches long. 

Compared to a full, a queen mattress is 6 inches wider and 5 inches longer. This makes a queen size mattress a better fit for taller people and couples who want more space for each bed partner to stretch out. However, queen mattresses are more expensive than full mattresses.

How to Shop for a Full Size Mattress

Key factors to consider when choosing a full size mattress include the materials, firmness, durability, pricing, and the space available when moving the mattress.

Mattress Material

Full size is one of the six standard mattress sizes. Full mattresses are available in multiple mattress types and materials. 

A mattress’ construction plays a central role in its performance. Materials like memory foam conform closely to the body to cushion pressure points. Materials like latex and coils can provide bounce and stability. Different materials may be layered together to enhance comfort, support, or other elements of performance.

Firmness

The right mattress firmness provides comfort and spinal alignment. A mattress that’s too firm doesn’t cushion pressure points, which can cause discomfort. But a mattress that is too soft doesn’t provide enough support, allowing parts of the body to sink into the bed and misaligning the spine. 
Look for a firmness level that fits your sleeping position and body weight. Side sleepers and people under 130 pounds usually benefit from something softer, while back and stomach sleepers and people over 230 pounds often need a firmer mattress.

Durability

The typical lifespan of a mattress is from 7 to 10 years, but many mattresses fall outside that range. A well-built mattress may last longer than a decade, while a mattress with weaker materials can last 5 years or less. 

Durability matters, because a mattress that starts to sag or sink over time can lose its ability to properly support your body. By lasting longer, a durable mattress also gives you a better return on your investment.

Moving Space

When buying a full size mattress, make sure that it will fit in your living space, including during the process of moving in or out. In addition to making sure the mattress can fit comfortably in the room you’d like to put it in, measure hallways, doorways, and staircases that you’ll have to pass through if you transport the mattress in the future.

Pricing

A full size mattress typically costs between $400 and $1,500, although certain models can be more or less expensive. A full size mattress almost always costs less than a king or queen size of the same model. 

The price of a mattress depends on its materials, design, and features. While a higher price does not always indicate better quality, it’s rare for the lowest-cost mattresses to be made with high-end materials. 

When shopping, consider your total budget and all of the items you’ll need to buy in addition to a mattress, including a bed frame, bedding, and other accessories that fit a full size bed.

Video: How to Choose the Right Mattress

Watch our video to learn more about how to shop for a mattress that will meet your needs and preferences.

Discover More Mattress Solutions

Learn about other great mattress options in our in-depth buying guides.

How We Test

All of our mattress recommendations come directly from our testing team. With years of experience in the sleep industry, our testers have a fine-tuned ability to identify the pros and cons of every mattress they evaluate.

Our methodology combines objective measurements with subjective assessments from team members who have different sleeping positions and body weights. By incorporating multiple data points and perspectives, our team can reliably pick the top-performing models, including the best full size mattresses.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best full size mattress?

The best full size mattress is the model that provides you with a comfortable night’s sleep while offering your body a blend of cushioning and support. 

No single model is best for everyone. Look for a full size mattress that matches your firmness preferences. Seek out a mattress with the right amount of contouring, bounce, edge support, motion isolation, and temperature regulation to suit your needs.

What are the dimensions of a full mattress?

The dimensions of a full size mattress are 54 inches wide by 75 inches long. The height can vary based on the design of the mattress.

How much should you pay for a full size bed?

When it’s time to replace your mattress, keep in mind that the average full size mattress costs between $400 and $1,500. However, some models cost more or less than that. Also, that price range is for a mattress only, and buying a bed frame and accessories would cost extra.

Is a full size mattress good for couples?

A full size mattress is good for some couples, but others may find it to be too cramped. Bed partners who have smaller body sizes or who like snuggling up close to each other are a better match for a full size bed. Couples who want to stretch out and have their own space usually prefer a queen or even a king size bed.

About The Author

David Rubin

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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