College Bedding Buying Guide

Planning for a college dorm room can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to finding bedding that fits those tricky dorm room beds. Start by choosing a bedding style or theme, then decide what dorm bedding essentials to add to your shopping list. Twin XL mattresses are the standard for most dorms, but they can be challenging to shop for, but don’t worry: If you don’t know where to start when buying dorm bedding, our guide has you covered. We’ll answer common questions about college bedding size and offer tips for layering a dorm bed, so you can send your student to school in comfort and style.

How Big Is a Twin XL Dorm Bed?

Before you purchase bedding, remember that the size of a Twin XL dorm bed is different from a regular Twin mattress: At 39 inches by 80 inches, Twin XL dorm room beds are the same width, but five inches longer, than a regular Twin mattress. This extra length ensures the bed is long enough for students taller than six feet and allows plenty of space for shorter students to stretch out. However, it a dorm bed also requires specially sized bedding. Before your college kid gets their heart set on specific dorm room sheets or bedding, be sure you’re looking at the right size.

What Size Sheets and Bedding Do I Need for a Dorm Bed?

The safest bet when shopping for the dorm is to buy bedding that is sized specifically for Twin XL college beds. It’s worth noting, however, that the extra length isn’t essential for every layer—only layers fitted to the mattress, including the bed skirt, mattress topper, and fitted sheet or sheet set.

bed with protector on it with pillows