The height or thickness of a mattress is an important but often overlooked factor when purchasing a new mattress. If you purchase a residential mattress for your that is too tall or too thin, it may not fit inside your bed frame properly and cause issues getting in and out of bed. Or, if you are buying a replacement sofa bed mattress, the wrong mattress height could mean not being able to close the sofa mechanism.
In this article, we discuss what the average mattress height is, common mattress depths, and how to determine the right mattress height for you.
Average Mattress Height
For a standard residential mattress, the average mattress height is 8 to 14 inches. However, mattress height will ultimately depend on where the mattress is being used. For example, sofa bed mattresses will have an average mattress height of 5″. This is much thinner than a standard residential mattress, due to its need to close inside of the sofa couch when not in use.
We will cover this in more detail below, where we discuss different mattress height categories and where they are commonly found.
Mattress Height Profiles
Mattress depths or thickness (or height) refers to the layers that a mattress is made of. These layers are essentially what the mattress is constructed of, which gives it its specific features.
Let’s take a look at types of mattress thickness so you can decide which thickness level works for you. Remember, there’s no one-type-fits-all thickness level!
Low Profile Mattresses: 2 - 5"
A 2-5 inch mattress is considered a low-profile mattress. This is the thinnest type of mattress you can find and is typically used for infants. Sofa bed mattresses are also in the low profile mattress range and are typically 4.5 inches.
Low-profile mattress heights include:
2-inch mattresses
3-inch mattresses
4-inch mattresses
5-inch mattresses
Slim Profile: 6 - 7"
While still thin, a slim-profile mattress is a few inches thicker than a low-profile one and offers more support. This type of mattress thickness is a good option for kids or for those with limited mobility as the mattress isn’t too high for them to get in and out of bed.
Slim profile mattress heights include:
6-inch mattresses
7-inch mattresses
A slim-profile mattress is also a great option for campers and RVs. Before you hit the open road next time, why not replace your current RV mattress with one that’s comfortable, supportive, and made of premium quality materials?
Standard Profile: 8 - 14"
The standard profile is the average mattress thickness that works for most adults. Aside from 8” RV mattresses, the standard profile is almost exclusively for residential mattresses. As the standard profile is the average mattress thickness, you´ll find many options in this range for all tastes and budgets.
Standard profile mattress heights include:
8-inch mattresses
9-inch mattresses
10-inch mattresses
11-inch mattresses
12-inch mattresses
13-inch mattresses
14-inch mattresses
Our standard profile 8” Luxury Gel Foam RV Mattress with Organic Cotton is a top-of-the-line mattress for your RV that includes all of the same comforts you will find in a residential mattress. So whoever said you can’t experience comfort on the road hasn’t heard of us – yet!
Extra Thick Profile: Over 16"
The extra thick profile mattresses are very very thick. And because of the many layers, this type of mattress is also very expensive. This level of thickness makes it hard for many to easily get into their mattress. Plus, this level of thickness doesn´t increase the quality of the mattress.
Extra thick profile mattress heights include:
16-inch mattresses
17-inch mattresses
18-inch mattresses
As you may have guessed, the level of thickness often increases the price of the mattress. Most manufacturers don’t make mattresses that are thicker than 16” but we know that people are different and so are their sleep needs.
If a deep or thick profile mattress is what you are after, then check out our custom mattresses. No size is too big, too small, or too odd!
Is a Thicker Mattress Always the Better Option?
This really depends on a lot of factors. Firstly, it’s important to understand that mattresses, like other things, aren´t a one-type-fits-all type of thing. So how thick your mattress should depend on your individual needs and budget.
Some thicker mattresses have extra cushioning, which is a good option for couples, heavy folks, and side sleepers. So if you’re in this category, then a thicker mattress may be a good option for you.
However, a thicker mattress does not necessarily equate to a higher-quality mattress. The quality of a mattress will ultimately come down to the quality of the materials used.
How to Measure Mattress Thickness
Buying a new mattress is exciting but you want to make sure that you´re getting the right size for your bed. And the good thing is that you really don’t have to be good at math (or numbers) to easily and accurately measure mattress thickness. 😅
First things first – if you’re measuring your old mattress, make sure you strip the blankets and sheets off first. From there, you’ll need a few simple tools: a tape measure or fabric ruler. It’s also handy to have a pen and paper as you don’t want to forget your measurements. Believe us, it happens! To get this measurement, simply measure from the bottom to the top of your mattress; like you’d measure someone’s height. Simple enough, right?
How to Identify the Right Mattress Thickness for You
Deciding on a mattress size you need is pretty easy. Measure the space you want the mattress to fit and how much height you have to work with.
You will also want to measure the height of your frame, and factor that into your overall desired height for the mattress.
The height of the mattress will likely be restricted in an RV or camper, where headroom is a common issue due to the lower ceilings.
The height can factor into your firmness as well. By going too short (typically 6″ and below) you will have less range of firmness. Going with a standard-height mattress will allow you to pick from a range of materials and firmness.
An Important Word on the Total Bed Height
When buying a mattress, a bed’s total height is a key factor. The bed’s total height is the combined height of the bed frame and the mattress. If the total height is too tall or too short, you will struggle to get in and out of bed each day.
Ideally, you should aim for a total height that allows you to easily place your feet on the floor when sitting on it. Your knees should be at a 90-degree angle, so you avoid excess strain when standing.
Choose the Right Mattress Thickness for a High-Quality Sleep
It’s one thing to buy the average mattress thickness and another thing to buy the right mattress thickness for you. Whether you’re looking for a residential, sofa bed, RV, or boat mattress, the thickness range you need depends on your needs and budget.
Keep in mind that a thicker mattress doesn´t necessarily mean better sleep. So choose a mattress that feels best for you – your body and brain will thank you for it!
