When shopping for bedding, choosing the correct sheet size is crucial for a snug, comfortable fit. One of the most common questions people ask is: “Do Twin XL sheets fit a Twin bed?” While these two sizes sound similar, they’re not quite the same—and the difference can affect how well your sheets fit.
Let’s break it down by comparing bed dimensions and sheet sizes so you know exactly what to buy.
Standard Mattress Sizes
Bed Size | Mattress Dimensions (W x L) |
---|---|
Twin | 38″ x 75″ |
Twin XL | 38″ x 80″ |
Full | 54″ x 75″ |
Queen | 60″ x 80″ |
King | 76″ x 80″ |
Cal King | 72″ x 84″ |
As you can see, Twin and Twin XL beds have the same width (38 inches), but the Twin XL is 5 inches longer than a standard Twin. This extra length makes a big difference when it comes to sheets.

Do Twin XL Sheets Fit a Twin Mattress?
Not perfectly. While Twin XL sheets have the right width, they’re 5 inches too long for a standard Twin mattress. This means:
- Fitted Sheets: A Twin XL fitted sheet will be too loose at the foot of a Twin mattress and may bunch up or wrinkle.
- Flat Sheets: A Twin XL flat sheet will hang lower or longer at the end of a Twin bed, but this is usually less of an issue.
- Sheet Sets: If you’re buying a Twin XL sheet set, the fitted sheet likely won’t fit your Twin mattress snugly.
Conclusion:
If you have a Twin bed, stick with Twin-size sheets—especially for fitted sheets. The extra length of a Twin XL sheet won’t lay smoothly and could cause discomfort.
Tip: How to Tell If You Have a Twin or Twin XL Bed
If you’re unsure which size your mattress is, just measure the length:
- 75 inches long? You have a Twin.
- 80 inches long? You have a Twin XL.
Always check before purchasing new bedding.
Final Recommendations
- Use Twin sheets for Twin beds.
- Use Twin XL sheets only for Twin XL beds—commonly found in college dorms or for tall sleepers.
- Don’t try to swap the two sizes, especially for fitted sheets, unless you’re okay with a poor fit.
Need help picking the right bedding for your mattress? Leave a comment or question—we’re here to help make your bed as comfortable as possible.
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