Finding the Perfect RV Mattress
RV Mattress Guide
Getting enough sleep is important to maintain both mental and physical health, but it can be difficult to get a good night’s sleep when you’re on the road.
Your RV mattress should be comfortable and supportive, but most RV's come with an standard mattress that is thin and uncomfortable. If you’re planning to buy a new RV mattress, here are some tips on what to look for.
Sizing
The first step to choosing a new RV mattress is to measure the dimensions of your current mattress and mattress platform, as well as the dimensions of the sleeping space in the RV. Whether you are looking for a Winnebago replacement mattress, a mattress for an Airstream, or any RV large or small, it is essential to take accurate measurements.
To be extra cautious, you should also measure any doors or areas you will need to go through in order to install the new mattress. Based on your measurements, you can look at the different mattress sizes that would fit in your space and consider purchasing a boxed or bagged mattress if the space is tight.
Because RV mattress frames are generally shorter than the frame you’d use for a regular mattress, it’s not the best idea to use a regular mattress as it may hang over the edge of the frame.
While some RV bedrooms do fit full-length mattresses, others do not, which is why measurements are vital. Here is a list of the different RV mattress sizes and their approximate widths and lengths (per Sleep Dog RV Mattresses In-a-Box):
● Twin: 38”x74”
● Twin XL: 38”x80”
● Full: 53”x74”
● Short Full: 48”x74”
● Full XL: 53”x80”
● Queen: 60”x80”
● Short Queen: 60”x75”
● Olympic Queen: 66”x80”
● King: 76”x80”
● Short King: 72”x75”
● RV King: 70”x74” or 70”x80”
● CA King: 72”x84”
● RV Bunk: range of sizes from 28”x75” to 42”x80”
Material
The materials used in the manufacturing of your mattress is important to consider because some materials can cause future problems. The best RV mattresses are usually made of memory foam or an equally supportive material. The types of materials to avoid are those which release volatile organic
compounds (VOCs) into the air in a process called off-gassing. VOCs can cause allergies or unpleasant smells.
To ensure that you don’t run into these problems, look for a mattress that has no VOCs and is made with organic cotton. You can also check that the manufacturer has CertiPUR-US certifications, meaning that their mattresses meet certain safety criteria.
Thickness
Another aspect to consider is the thickness of the mattress because many RV spaces are shorter than expected and may not come with an elevated space above the bed. If you get a mattress that is too thick, you may find yourself too close to the ceiling for comfort.
In addition to measuring the mattress frame, it’s a good idea to measure the height of the space where you’ll be installing the mattress. While thinner mattresses can also provide more storage space, don’t go too thin or you may end up feeling uncomfortable or unsupported.
Cover or No Cover?
Some mattresses come with an organic cotton cover that is removable and washable. But is this cover absolutely necessary? Covers provide a convenient way to help mattresses last longer and ensure their integrity. In addition, covers are easy to wash in case of spills or stains. While not all RV mattresses come with a cover, it’s a solid investment to make in order to better protect the mattress and keep your sleeping space clean and comfortable.
Cost
RV mattresses come in a range of prices depending on the size and material. They are a bargain if you use your RV often, but they may not seem worth the price tag if you won’t be sleeping in your RV too much.
Alternatively, you may consider purchasing a memory foam mattress topper instead of a brand-new mattress. These are easy to find in home stores and are much cheaper than mattresses in general, and they may do the trick if you are looking for a bit of extra support during the occasional RV trip.
Conclusion
Getting a new RV mattress can improve sleep and ensure you are comfortable and well-rested on the road. Following these guidelines and looking at the different RV mattress options will help you choose the one that’s right for you.
