How Thick Should a Mattress Be?
When buying a mattress, most people compare size, firmness and material first. But mattress thickness also matters because it affects comfort, support, bed height, sheet fit and how easy the bed is to get in and out of.
Quick Answer: How Thick Should a Mattress Be?
Most adults suit a mattress between 20–30 cm thick . Side sleepers, couples and heavier adults may prefer 30–35 cm , while kids, bunk beds and lightweight sleepers may only need 13–25 cm . The right mattress thickness depends on your sleep position, body weight, mattress material and bed base height.
If you are replacing your old mattress, you can browse Levede’s full mattress collection to compare different mattress types, sizes and comfort options.
Mattress Thickness Chart: Common Mattress Heights in CM
Below is a simple guide to common mattress thickness ranges and who they may suit.
| Mattress Type | Height | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Low profile mattress | 5–13 cm | Toddlers, foldaway beds, some bunk beds |
| Slim mattress | 13–20 cm | Kids, guest beds, lightweight sleepers |
| Standard mattress | 20–30 cm | Most adults, everyday bedrooms, guest rooms |
| Thick mattress | 30–35 cm | Side sleepers, couples, people wanting more cushioning |
| Extra thick mattress | 35 cm+ | Plush bedroom setups and sleepers who prefer a taller feel |
Mattress weight can vary depending on the material, spring system, foam density and number of layers. A thick mattress is not always better. A well-made 25 cm mattress can feel more supportive than a poorly built 35 cm mattress.
What Is the Standard Mattress Thickness?
A standard mattress is usually 20–30 cm thick . This range suits many adults because it gives enough room for comfort layers and a support core without making the bed too high.
A standard-height mattress is often a safe choice for:
- Everyday bedrooms
- Guest rooms
- Back sleepers
- Combination sleepers
- People who want balanced comfort and support
If you are unsure which feel suits you, read Levede’s mattress firmness scale guide before choosing your mattress thickness. Thickness and firmness work together, but they are not the same thing.
How Thick Is a Queen Mattress?
Most queen mattresses are around 20–35 cm thick , with many standard queen mattresses sitting between 25–30 cm . Thicker queen mattresses, usually 30–35 cm , may suit side sleepers, couples or people who prefer extra cushioning.
If you are shopping for a queen size bed, compare your mattress thickness with your bed frame height. A thick mattress on a tall frame may make the bed too high, while a thinner mattress on a low platform frame may feel too low.
For queen-specific buying help, you can view Levede’s queen mattress collection , read the best queen mattress Australia guide , or check the queen mattress size guide .
What Makes Up Mattress Thickness?
Mattress thickness is not just about how tall the mattress looks. It comes from the layers inside the mattress. These layers affect how the mattress feels, how much support it gives and how long it may hold its shape.
Comfort Layer
The comfort layer is the top section of the mattress. This is the part you feel first when you lie down.
It helps with:
- Surface comfort
- Pressure relief
- Softness or contouring
- Initial body cushioning
Common comfort layer materials include memory foam, gel foam, quilted foam and latex.
A comfort layer that is too thin may feel firm or flat. A comfort layer that is too thick and soft may allow too much sinking, especially if the support base underneath is weak.
Transition Layer
Some mattresses include a transition layer between the comfort layer and the support base. This layer helps reduce the sudden feeling of moving from soft top foam to a firmer base.
It can help with:
- Gradual support
- Pressure balance
- Extra cushioning
- Better weight distribution
Not every mattress has this layer, but it is common in many hybrid and foam mattresses.
Support Layer
The support layer is the base of the mattress. It helps the mattress keep its shape and gives your body the deeper support it needs.
Common support systems include:
- High-density foam
- Pocket springs
- Bonnell springs
- Latex cores
- Hybrid spring and foam builds
As a general guide, the support layer should make up a large part of the mattress height. A thick mattress with a weak support core may still sag or feel unstable over time.
How to Choose Mattress Thickness by Sleep Position
Your sleep position affects how much cushioning and support you need.
Side Sleepers
Side sleepers usually need more cushioning around the shoulders and hips. A mattress around 30–35 cm may feel more comfortable because it allows more room for pressure relief layers.
Look for a mattress that combines cushioning with stable support. Too firm may create pressure points, while too soft may allow the hips to sink too far.
Back Sleepers
Back sleepers often suit a mattress around 25–30 cm thick. This range can offer a balance between comfort and support.
The goal is to keep the lower back supported without creating too much sink. A medium or medium-firm mattress may work well for many back sleepers.
Stomach Sleepers
Stomach sleepers usually need a firmer and more supportive surface. A mattress around 20–25 cm may be enough if the support core is strong.
Too much softness can let the hips dip, which may feel uncomfortable over time.
Combination Sleepers
Combination sleepers move between positions during the night. A mattress around 25–30 cm often works well because it gives enough cushioning without feeling too deep or hard to move on.
A responsive mattress can make turning easier than a very soft, slow-moving foam mattress.
If you are choosing a mattress because of back discomfort, Levede’s guide to the best mattress for back pain may help you compare support, firmness and comfort. For ongoing pain or medical concerns, speak with a qualified health professional.
How Body Weight Affects Mattress Thickness
Body weight can change how a mattress feels. The same mattress may feel firmer to a lighter person and softer to a heavier person.
Under 60 kg
Lighter sleepers may not need a very thick mattress. A mattress around 20–25 cm can provide enough comfort and support, depending on firmness and material.
60–100 kg
Most adults in this range may suit a mattress around 25–30 cm . This gives enough space for comfort layers and a stable support base.
Over 100 kg
Heavier sleepers may prefer a mattress around 30–35 cm with a stronger support core. A thicker mattress with dense foam or a strong spring system can help reduce the chance of bottoming out.
Thickness alone is not enough. Always check the material, firmness and support system before buying.
How Your Bed Base Impacts Mattress Thickness
Your mattress and bed base work together. A thick mattress on a tall base can make the bed hard to climb into. A thin mattress on a low frame may make the bed feel too close to the floor.
As a general guide, a comfortable total bed height is often around 55–65 cm from the floor to the top of the mattress , but personal height, mobility and comfort matter too.
| Bed Base Type | Common Base Height | Suggested Mattress Thickness |
|---|---|---|
| Platform bed | 25–30 cm | 25–30 cm |
| Slatted bed base | 20–30 cm | 25–30 cm |
| Box spring or foundation | 35–40 cm | 20–25 cm |
| Adjustable frame | 20–30 cm | Usually under 30 cm |
| Storage bed frame | Varies | Check total height carefully |
If you are setting up a queen bedroom, compare your mattress with a suitable queen bed frame . If you need extra storage, a queen bed frame with storage can help maximise space, but make sure the combined bed and mattress height still feels comfortable.
For more size guidance, read Levede’s bed sizes in Australia guide .
How Mattress Material Affects Ideal Thickness
Different mattress materials need different thicknesses to perform well.
Memory Foam Mattresses
Memory foam mattresses often work well between 25–35 cm . This gives space for a comfort layer and a firmer support base underneath.
A thin memory foam mattress may feel firm or may not provide enough pressure relief. A thicker memory foam mattress can feel more cushioned, but it should still have good support underneath.
If you want extra comfort without replacing the full mattress, a queen mattress topper can add surface cushioning. For example, a 5 cm cool gel memory foam queen topper can add softness to a firmer mattress, while a 7 cm memory foam queen mattress topper gives a thicker comfort layer.
Pocket Spring and Hybrid Mattresses
Pocket spring and hybrid mattresses are often around 25–35 cm thick. The spring layer needs enough depth to compress properly, while the foam or pillow-top layers add cushioning.
These mattresses can be useful for people who want support, airflow and a more lifted feel.
For example, a 25 cm queen pocket spring mattress may suit shoppers wanting a balanced profile, while a 30 cm queen mattress or 32 cm queen spring mattress may suit those wanting a taller, more cushioned feel.
Firm and Extra-Firm Mattresses
Some firm mattresses do not need to be extremely thick to feel supportive. The construction matters more than height alone.
For sleepers who prefer a firmer feel, options such as an extra-firm queen mattress may be more suitable than simply choosing the thickest mattress available.
Thick Mattresses: Benefits and Drawbacks
A thicker mattress can feel more cushioned and premium, but it is not always the right choice for every sleeper.
Benefits of a Thick Mattress
A mattress around 30 cm or more may offer:
- More cushioning
- Better pressure relief for side sleepers
- A taller bedroom look
- More comfort layers
- Better suitability for couples or heavier sleepers, depending on build quality
Drawbacks of a Thick Mattress
A very thick mattress may also:
- Make the bed too high
- Need deep-pocket fitted sheets
- Be heavier to rotate or move
- Feel too soft for some sleepers
- Cost more than a standard mattress
If your current mattress is supportive but feels too firm, a topper may be enough. If the mattress is sagging or no longer supportive, replacing the mattress is usually the better option.
Do You Need Special Sheets for a Thick Mattress?
Yes, you may need deeper fitted sheets if your mattress is over 30 cm thick , especially if you also use a topper or mattress protector.
Before buying sheets, check:
- Mattress thickness
- Topper thickness
- Mattress protector thickness
- Sheet pocket depth
If you use a topper, your total sleeping surface may become much taller. A queen mattress protector or topper can improve comfort, but it may also affect sheet fit.
What Mattress Thickness Is Right for You?
The best mattress thickness depends on your body, sleep style, bed base and comfort preference.
As a simple guide:
| You Are Looking For | Suggested Thickness |
|---|---|
| Kids’ bed or bunk bed | 13–20 cm |
| Lightweight adult sleeper | 20–25 cm |
| Most adults | 25–30 cm |
| Side sleepers | 30–35 cm |
| Couples | 28–35 cm |
| Heavier sleepers | 30–35 cm |
| Low bed setup | 25–35 cm |
| Tall bed base | 20–25 cm |
If you want a simple starting point, most adults can begin by comparing mattresses in the 25–30 cm range. Then adjust based on sleep position, body weight and preferred firmness.
For broader buying guidance, read Levede’s guide on how to choose the right mattress in Australia , or browse the full Levede mattress range .
FAQs
How do I measure mattress thickness?
To measure mattress thickness , measure from the top sleeping surface down to the bottom edge of the mattress. Do not include the bed base, topper or mattress protector when calculating the actual mattress height.
How thick is a good mattress?
A good mattress thickness usually falls between 20–35 cm, with 25–30 cm ideal for most adults. Side sleepers and heavier individuals may prefer 30–35 cm for extra cushioning, support and better pressure relief.
How thick is a queen mattress?
A queen mattress thickness is generally between 20–35 cm. Most standard queen mattresses are around 25–30 cm thick, while premium or hybrid models can be thicker to provide additional comfort, durability and layered support.
Is a thicker mattress always better?
No, a thicker mattress is not always better . Comfort depends on materials, firmness and internal support layers, not just height. A well-built thinner mattress can perform better than a poorly constructed thicker one.
How thick should a mattress be for side sleepers?
Side sleepers typically need a mattress thickness of 30–35 cm . This allows better cushioning around the shoulders and hips, helping reduce pressure points while maintaining proper spinal alignment during sleep.
What is the standard mattress thickness?
Standard mattress thickness is typically between 20–30 cm. This range suits most adult sleepers and works well with standard bed bases. It offers a balanced combination of comfort and support for everyday use across different sleeping styles.
How thick should a mattress be for heavy sleepers?
Heavier sleepers may prefer a mattress around 30–35 cm with dense foam, strong springs or a supportive hybrid build. The support system matters as much as the height.