Understanding the Height + 20cm Formula
The professional mattress sizing standard of adding 20cm (8 inches) to your height ensures optimal comfort and proper sleep positioning. This formula accounts for natural body positioning during sleep, pillow thickness, and movement space throughout the night.
Why Proper Mattress Length Matters
Insufficient mattress length can lead to poor sleep quality, restricted movement, and discomfort. When your feet hang off the edge or you feel cramped, your sleep cycles are disrupted, affecting recovery and daily performance. Professional sleep specialists recommend the +20cm formula as the minimum for healthy sleep positioning.
Standard Size Considerations
While the height formula determines minimum length requirements, choosing between standard sizes involves additional factors. Queen mattresses (60" × 80") accommodate most sleepers up to 6'4" comfortably, while California King (72" × 84") provides extra length for taller individuals. King size (76" × 80") offers maximum width but standard length.
Sleep Position Impact on Sizing
Your primary sleep position affects space requirements. Back sleepers need the least length as they maintain a straight body position. Side sleepers may curl up, reducing effective length needs. Stomach sleepers often stretch out, requiring more length. Combination sleepers benefit from generous sizing to accommodate position changes.
Couple Considerations
When sharing a mattress, size calculations should accommodate the taller partner's needs. Additionally, consider sleep movement patterns, temperature preferences, and individual space requirements. Queen size works for most couples, while King provides optimal individual space without compromising length.