Dorm Bed Sizes: The ULTIMATE College Guide Revealed!
College life often presents a whirlwind of new experiences, and understanding the basics, like what size bed is in a dorm, is crucial for a smooth transition. Resident Advisors (RAs), experienced students themselves, frequently get asked about this very topic. For example, a typical single dorm room at State University might feature an extra-long twin bed, whereas, at Community College Housing, standard twin beds might be more common. Therefore, knowing bedding dimensions, the attribute, matters for comfort, the value; and planning, the object.
Image taken from the YouTube channel The College Explorer , from the video titled What Size Bed Is In A Dorm? – The College Explorer .
Decoding Dorm Bed Sizes: Your Guide to "What Size Bed is in a Dorm"
Choosing what to bring to college is exciting, but figuring out your dorm room situation can be confusing. Especially when it comes to the bed! This guide will break down everything you need to know about "what size bed is in a dorm", common sizes, and how to prepare accordingly.
Common Dorm Bed Sizes Explained
The most important thing to know is that there isn’t one definitive answer to "what size bed is in a dorm." Sizes vary by college and even by dorm within the same university. However, some sizes are much more common than others.
Twin XL: The Most Likely Suspect
- Why it’s common: Twin XL beds are the most frequently found bed size in dorm rooms across the United States. They offer a little extra length which is great for taller students.
- Dimensions: Approximately 39 inches wide and 80 inches long.
- What you need to buy: Look specifically for "Twin XL" sheets, comforters, and mattress pads. Don’t assume a standard "Twin" will fit properly, as it will likely be too short.
Standard Twin: Still a Possibility
- When to expect it: You might find a standard Twin bed in older dorm buildings or in some smaller colleges. While less prevalent than Twin XL, it’s still good to be aware of.
- Dimensions: Approximately 39 inches wide and 75 inches long.
- What you need to buy: Standard "Twin" bedding.
Full Size: Less Common, but it happens.
- Where you might find it: Some dorms, particularly in suite-style living arrangements or apartment-style dorms, may offer Full-sized beds. Often, these options are available in single rooms as well.
- Dimensions: Approximately 54 inches wide and 75 inches long.
- What you need to buy: "Full" size bedding.
Other Bed Sizes
- Queen Size: Extremely rare in traditional dorms. It would be unusual to find a Queen bed unless you are living in graduate housing or a very non-traditional setup.
- King Size: Virtually nonexistent in dorm rooms.
- Custom Sizes: In very rare cases, dorms may have custom-built beds that don’t conform to standard sizes. This is often in historical buildings or renovations where space is unusual.
How to Find Out the Bed Size in Your Dorm
While understanding common sizes is useful, it’s crucial to know the specific bed size in your assigned dorm room. Don’t rely on assumptions!
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Check the University Housing Website: This is usually the first and best place to look. Many universities have dedicated pages for each dorm with specific information about room dimensions, furniture, and bed sizes. Search for your dorm name within the housing section.
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Contact the Housing Department: If the information isn’t available online, call or email the university’s housing department directly. They can provide you with the correct bed size.
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Ask a Current Student: If you know someone who has lived in the same dorm, they can be a valuable resource. They can confirm the bed size and give you other insights about the room.
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Attend a Virtual Tour or Open House: Some colleges offer virtual tours or open house events where you can see actual dorm rooms and ask questions about the bed sizes.
Preparing for Your Specific Dorm Bed
Once you know "what size bed is in a dorm" for you, you can start preparing.
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Purchase the Correct Bedding: This is the most important step. Avoid the frustration of buying the wrong size sheets by confirming the bed size first.
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Consider a Mattress Topper: Dorm beds are often thin and uncomfortable. A mattress topper can significantly improve your sleeping experience. Be sure the topper is the correct size.
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Think About Bed Risers: If your bed height is adjustable, or even if it is not, bed risers are an invaluable addition. They add extra storage space under your bed, which is essential in a small dorm room. Choose risers that are appropriate for the bed size and weight.
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Plan Your Room Decor: Once you know the bed size, you can start planning your room decor. Consider the size of your bed and how it will fit in the room when choosing posters, tapestries, and other decorations.
A Quick Reference Table
This table summarizes the key information about dorm bed sizes:
| Bed Size | Approximate Dimensions | Most Common In | Bedding to Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Twin XL | 39" x 80" | Most Dorms | Twin XL |
| Standard Twin | 39" x 75" | Older Dorms, Some Smaller Colleges | Twin |
| Full | 54" x 75" | Suite-Style Dorms, Single Rooms | Full |
| Queen | 60" x 80" | Rarely in dorms, possibly grad housing | Queen |
| King | 76" x 80" | Virtually Never | King |
Dorm Bed Sizes: FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions to help you navigate the world of dorm bed sizes and ensure you’re prepared for college move-in day!
What if my dorm doesn’t specify the bed size?
Contact your Residential Life office immediately. Don’t assume! While most dorms have Twin XL beds, variations exist, and knowing for sure prevents costly mistakes with bedding purchases. You need to confirm exactly what size bed is in a dorm for your specific campus and residence hall.
How is Twin XL different from a regular Twin bed?
The main difference is the length. A Twin XL is 5 inches longer than a standard Twin bed (80 inches vs. 75 inches). This extra length is crucial for accommodating taller students. When figuring out what size bed is in a dorm, remember most colleges use the Twin XL.
Are there any dorms with Full or Queen-sized beds?
Yes, some universities, particularly in apartment-style dorms or graduate housing, may offer Full (Double) or even Queen-sized beds. However, these are less common in traditional freshman dorms. Always verify what size bed is in a dorm you will be assigned to.
Where can I find affordable Twin XL bedding?
Many retailers offer affordable Twin XL bedding sets, especially during back-to-school sales. Target, Walmart, Amazon, and Bed Bath & Beyond are good places to start your search. Also, consider coordinating with your roommate if you share a room. Shopping together can save time and money! Remember that finding what size bed is in a dorm is the first step.
So, now you’re in the know about what size bed is in a dorm! Hopefully, this helps you feel a bit more prepared for college. Sweet dreams and happy studying!