Choosing the right twin bed for a college dorm is an important decision. Not only does the bed need to be comfortable, but it also needs to fit well within the typically small dorm room space. In addition, you’ll want to consider factors like storage, durability, and style. 

Let’s explore the best college twin beds for dorms that meet these criteria, helping you find the perfect bed to make your dorm room feel like home.

Why a Twin Bed Works for Dorm Rooms

A twin bed is a great choice for dorm rooms for several reasons. First, dorm rooms are usually small, typically ranging between 12 feet by 19 feet and 12 feet by 12 feet, with some rooms going as small as 10 feet by 10 feet. 

Twin beds take up less space than larger bed sizes. This leaves more room for other essential items like a desk, chair, and storage units, helping you make the most of the limited space.

Another reason a college twin bed works well is that it’s just the right size for one person. Since most dorm rooms are shared, having a smaller bed ensures that each roommate has enough personal space. A twin bed provides enough comfort for a good night's sleep without overwhelming the bedroom.

Lastly, twin beds are often more affordable and easier to find than larger beds. A dorm twin bed is also easier to move, which is important when you’re setting up your dorm room or moving out at the end of the school year. Overall, a twin bed is a practical and space-saving solution for dorm living.

Twin bed in a 10 feet x 10 feet dorm room - Local Furniture OutletTwin bed in a 10 feet x 10 feet dorm room - Local Furniture Outlet
Twin bed in a 12 feet x 19 feet dorm room - Local Furniture OutletTwin bed in a 12 feet x 19 feet dorm room - Local Furniture Outlet

College Dorm Mattress Size

What size beds are in college dorms? A twin bed is a great choice for dorm rooms for several reasons. First, dorm rooms are usually small, typically ranging between 12 feet by 19 feet and 12 feet by 12 feet, with some rooms going as small as 10 feet by 10 feet. 

Twin bed dorms take up less space than larger bed sizes. This leaves more room for other essential items like a desk, chair, and storage units, helping you make the most of the limited space.

Another reason a college twin bed works well in dorms is that it’s just the right size for one person. Since most dorm rooms are shared, having a smaller bed ensures that each roommate has enough personal space. A twin bed provides enough comfort for a good night's sleep without overwhelming the bedroom.

Lastly, twin beds are often more affordable and easier to find than larger beds. They’re also easier to move, which is important when you’re setting up your dorm room or moving out at the end of the school year. Overall, a twin bed is a practical and space-saving solution for dorm living.

How Thick is a Dorm Mattress?

A college twin bed size is typically about 6 to 8 inches thick. They are usually thinner than the mattresses you might have at home, as they are designed for durability rather than comfort.

How to Make Dorm Mattress More Comfortable

To make your dorm mattress more comfortable, consider adding a mattress topper. Memory foam or egg crate toppers can provide extra cushioning and support, transforming your basic dorm mattress into a more relaxing place to sleep. Additionally, using soft, high-quality sheets and adding a plush comforter or blanket can improve the overall comfort.

Clean Dorm Mattress

Before using a dorm mattress, it's a good idea to clean it. Start by vacuuming both sides to remove dust and debris. Then, use a disinfecting spray or a mixture of water and mild detergent to wipe it down.

Be sure to let the mattress dry completely before putting on your sheets. Adding a mattress protector can also help keep it clean throughout the school year by preventing spills and stains.

9 Twin Beds for Your College Dorm Room

Here are 9 twin bed types you can consider for college dorm rooms:

1. Classic Twin Bed with Shelves

A classic twin bed with shelves is a great choice for a dorm room. Dorm rooms are notorious for their lack of storage space, so having shelves built into the bed frame can be a lifesaver. 

Beds like the Bailey Twin Music Bed by Elements International and Ashley Furniture’s Trinell Collection twin bookcase bed can be used to store clothes, books, or other essentials, keeping them neatly tucked away but easily accessible.

  • Pros: Maximizes storage space, easy to organize, durable
  • Cons: Slightly more expensive than a basic twin bed due to additional functionality
Bailey Twin Music Bed - Elements International - Local Furniture OutletBailey Twin Music Bed - Elements International - Local Furniture Outlet

Bailey Twin Music Bed

Trinell Twin Bookcase Bed - Ashley Furniture - Local Furniture OutletTrinell Twin Bookcase Bed - Ashley Furniture - Local Furniture Outlet

Trinell Twin Bookcase Bed

2. Loft Twin Bed

A loft twin bed is another excellent college twin bed option, especially if you’re looking to maximize floor space. By raising the bed off the ground, you free up space underneath for a desk, seating area, or additional storage.

This setup is ideal for students who need a dedicated study space within their dorm room, just like the Cassidy Collection twin loft bed by Furniture of America. You may need a step stool for lofted dorm beds.

  • Pros: Maximizes floor space, versatile, great for small rooms
  • Cons: Requires a ladder, may not be suitable for those who dislike heights
Cassidy Twin Loft Bed - Furniture of America - Local Furniture OutletCassidy Twin Loft Bed - Furniture of America - Local Furniture Outlet

Cassidy Twin Loft Bed

Sadie Daybed - Crown Mark Furniture - Local Furniture OutletSadie Daybed - Crown Mark Furniture - Local Furniture Outlet

Sadie Daybed

3. Twin Daybed

A twin daybed serves a dual purpose, functioning as both a bed and a seating area. This twin bed with space underneath is a great college twin bed choice for rooms where space is limited.

During the day, the bed can be used as a sofa, providing a comfortable place to sit, study, or hang out with friends. At night, it transforms into a cozy bed, but it may interfere with your step stool for dorm beds.

  • Pros: Multi-functional, stylish, space-saving
  • Cons: May not provide as much under-bed storage as other options

Pieces like the Sadie Daybed by Crown Mark Furniture, Woodhaven Twin Daybed, Youth Collection bookcase daybed by Donco Trading, and Bailee Daybed by Acme Furniture can save space without compromising on functionality and quality.

Woodhaven Twin Daybed - Elements International - Local Furniture OutletWoodhaven Twin Daybed - Elements International - Local Furniture Outlet

Woodhaven Twin Daybed

Youth Twin Bookcase Daybed - Donco Trading - Local Furniture OutletYouth Twin Bookcase Daybed - Donco Trading - Local Furniture Outlet

Youth Twin Bookcase Daybed

Bailee Daybed - Acme Furniture - Local Furniture OutletBailee Daybed - Acme Furniture - Local Furniture Outlet

Bailee Daybed

4. Twin Bed with Trundle

A twin bed with a trundle is perfect for dorms where you might occasionally have guests. The trundle bed is a second mattress that can be pulled out from underneath the main bed when needed. This college twin bed setup is great for sleepovers or when you need an extra sleeping space without sacrificing room during the day.

  • Pros: Provides an extra bed, easy to store, space-efficient
  • Cons: The trundle mattress may be thinner and less comfortable than the main mattress
Stonebrook Twin Bed With Trundle - American Woodcrafteres - Local Furniture OutletStonebrook Twin Bed With Trundle - American Woodcrafteres - Local Furniture Outlet

Stonebrook Twin Bed With Trundle

Riverwood Twin Panel Bed With Trundle - Samuel Lawrence - Local Furniture OutlerRiverwood Twin Panel Bed With Trundle - Samuel Lawrence - Local Furniture Outler

Riverwood Twin Panel Bed With Trundle

Check out Samuel Lawrence’s Riverwood Collection twin panel bed with trundle, the Stonebrook Collection twin bed with trundle by American Woodcrafters, or this piece from Donco’s Panel Collection for stylish and multi-functional choices.

Panel Twin Bed With Twin Trundle Bed - Donco Trading - Local Furniture OutletPanel Twin Bed With Twin Trundle Bed - Donco Trading - Local Furniture Outlet

Panel Twin Bed With Twin Trundle Bed

5. Platform Twin Bed

A platform twin bed is a simple, sturdy choice that doesn’t require a box spring. The solid platform provides excellent support for the mattress, and the bed’s low profile makes it a great option for rooms with lower ceilings. 

  • Pros: Sturdy, simple design, no box spring needed
  • Cons: Limited under-bed storage if drawers are not included

Some platform beds also have built-in storage drawers or space underneath for storage bins, such as the Mill Creek Collection twin platform storage bed by Aspen Home Furniture and Wade Youth Twin Platform Storage Bed.

Mill Creek Twin Platform Storage Bed - Aspen Home Furniture - Local Furniture OutletMill Creek Twin Platform Storage Bed - Aspen Home Furniture - Local Furniture Outlet

Mill Creek Twin Platform Storage Bed

Wade Youth Twin Platform Storage Bed - Elements International - Local Furniture OutletWade Youth Twin Platform Storage Bed - Elements International - Local Furniture Outlet

Wade Youth Twin Platform Storage Bed

Wyatt Loft Bed With Chest And Swivel Desk - Acme Furniture - Local Furniture OutletWyatt Loft Bed With Chest And Swivel Desk - Acme Furniture - Local Furniture Outlet

Wyatt Loft Bed With Chest And Swivel Desk

6. Twin Bunk Bed

If you’re sharing a dorm room with a roommate, twin bunk beds might be the perfect solution. These beds can be stacked on top of each other to create a bunk bed or used separately as two twin beds. This flexibility allows you to arrange the room in the way that works best for you and your roommate.

  • Pros: Space-saving, versatile, great for shared rooms
  • Cons: Requires coordination with a roommate, top bunk may not be ideal for everyone

We love the Olga Collection metal twin over twin bunk bed, Montgomery Collection twin over futon bunk bed by Coaster Furniture, and Wyatt Collection loft bed for the myriad of ways you can use them in dorm rooms.

Olga Metal Twin Over Twin Bunk Bed - Furniture of America - Local Furniture OutletOlga Metal Twin Over Twin Bunk Bed - Furniture of America - Local Furniture Outlet

Olga Metal Twin Over Twin Bunk Bed

Montgomery Twin Over Futon Bunk Bed - Coaster Furniture - Local Furniture OutletMontgomery Twin Over Futon Bunk Bed - Coaster Furniture - Local Furniture Outlet

Montgomery Twin Over Futon Bunk Bed

Aviada Twin Adjustable Bed - Rize Home - Local Furniture OutletAviada Twin Adjustable Bed - Rize Home - Local Furniture Outlet

Aviada Twin Adjustable Bed

Remedy III Twin Adjustable Bed - Rize Home - Local Furniture OutletRemedy III Twin Adjustable Bed - Rize Home - Local Furniture Outlet

Remedy III Twin Adjustable Bed

7. Adjustable Twin Bed

An adjustable twin bed allows you to customize the position of the bed for maximum comfort. These beds can be adjusted to different angles for reading, watching TV, or sleeping, which can be especially beneficial for students with back or neck issues. While more common in home settings, there are adjustable twin beds designed for dorm use as well.

  • Pros: Customizable comfort, great for reading or studying in bed, may offer therapeutic benefits
  • Cons: Typically more expensive, requires an electrical outlet

8. Storage Loft Bed

Similar to a lofted bed, a storage loft bed elevates the mattress to create usable space underneath. However, this college twin bed option also includes built-in storage solutions like shelves, drawers, and even a desk. 

  • Pros: Combines sleeping and storage in one, ideal for small rooms, highly functional
  • Cons: Can be more expensive, requires assembly

Pieces like the Cleo Collection twin captain loft bed and Vista Twin Over Twin Super Loft Desk are the ultimate space-saving beds for dorms that need to maximize every square inch.

Vista Twin Over Twin Super Loft Desk - Elements International - Local Furniture OutletVista Twin Over Twin Super Loft Desk - Elements International - Local Furniture Outlet

Vista Twin Over Twin Super Loft Desk

Cleo Twin Captain Loft Bed - Furniture of America - Local Furniture OutletCleo Twin Captain Loft Bed - Furniture of America - Local Furniture Outlet

Cleo Twin Captain Loft Bed

9. Twin Bed with Under-Bed Storage

A twin bed with under-bed storage is similar to a platform bed but typically offers more storage space. This bed type is raised higher off the ground, allowing for more room underneath to store bins, boxes, or even a small dresser. 

  • Pros: Maximizes storage space, easy access to stored items, efficient use of space
  • Cons: Higher off the ground, may require a step stool

Twin storage beds from the Wrangle Hill Collection and Emily Collection are great choices for students who need extra storage but don’t want to sacrifice floor space.

Emily Twin Storage Bed - Elements International - Local Furniture OutletEmily Twin Storage Bed - Elements International - Local Furniture Outlet

Emily Twin Storage Bed

Wrangle Hill Twin Storage Bed - Elements International - Local Furniture OutletWrangle Hill Twin Storage Bed - Elements International - Local Furniture Outlet

Wrangle Hill Twin Storage Bed

How to Choose the Best Twin Bed for Your Dorm Room

When choosing the best twin bed for your college dorm, consider the following factors:

1. Room Size and Layout

Measure your dorm room to ensure the college twin bed will fit comfortably. Consider the placement of other furniture, such as desks, dressers, nightstands, and benches, to avoid overcrowding the space.

Choosing college twin beds - Local Furniture OutletChoosing college twin beds - Local Furniture Outlet

2. Storage Needs

Think about how much storage you’ll need. If closet space is limited, twin storage beds for adults, like twin beds with bookcases and twin beds with shelves, can be incredibly useful.

3. Comfort

Your college twin bed should be comfortable, as you’ll be spending a lot of time in it. Consider the mattress quality, bed height, and any special features that could improve comfort, such as adjustability or extra length.

4. Durability

Dorm life can be tough on furniture, so choose a bed that’s built to last. Look for sturdy materials like black wood twin beds or cherry wood twin beds, and read reviews to ensure the bed will hold up over time.

5. Style and Personalization

While function is important, don’t forget about style. Your dorm room is your home away from home, so choose a bed that reflects your personal taste and makes you feel comfortable and relaxed. Whether you need gray twin beds or vintage twin beds, you can find them all here at Local Furniture Outlet.

FAQs

Can I Use My Existing Dorm Room Bed Frame With Your Loft Bed?

Yes, many loft beds are designed to be versatile and can often work with your existing dorm room bed frame. However, it’s always a good idea to check the specific measurements and design of the loft bed to ensure compatibility with your current frame. Contact the manufacturer or retailer for confirmation if you’re unsure.

Do You Sell Lift Kits To Raise The Dorm Bed Off The Floor?

Yes, lift kits are available to help raise your dorm bed off the floor. These kits come with risers that increase the height of your bed, allowing for more storage space underneath. They’re a great solution for maximizing space in small dorm rooms.

How Safe & Sturdy Are Your Loft And Bunk Beds?

Our loft and bunk beds are built with safety and sturdiness in mind. They are constructed using high-quality materials, such as solid wood or heavy-duty metal, and include safety features like guardrails and secure ladder access. Additionally, they undergo testing to meet safety standards, ensuring they can support the weight of both the mattress and the occupant without issue.

A Comfy College Experience

Now that we know what size bed are in college dorms, choosing the right college twin bed is a key step in creating a comfortable and functional living space. Whether you need extra storage, a multi-functional piece, or simply a bed that fits well in a small room, there’s a twin bed out there that’s perfect for your needs. By considering factors like room size, storage, comfort, and durability, you can find a bed that will serve you well throughout your college years.

Shop twin beds for sale for your dorm room at Local Furniture Outlet.