HomePlace Sizing & Measuring Guide

HomePlace Sizing & Measuring Guide

Buying something for your home is a lot easier when you know what will actually fit. Whether you're measuring a mattress for sheets, a table for a tablecloth, a window for curtains or a bathroom for a rug, this guide gives you the measurements to know before you shop. Grab a tape measure. We'll take it from here.

Before You Measure

A tape measure is the obvious starting point, but getting a useful measurement takes a little more than stretching it from one point to another.

Measure the actual space whenever possible, rather than relying on the dimensions of an existing item. Record width, depth and height, and measure twice before ordering anything that needs to fit a specific space.

Also think about clearance. Doors, drawers, cabinets and walkways all need room to function. A piece of furniture that technically fits into a room may not work particularly well if you can no longer open the drawer.

Keep your measurements in inches. When shopping, compare your measurements with the manufacturer's listed product dimensions and allow for the space the item needs to function comfortably.

Bedroom & Bedding Measurements

Mattresses, sheets and bedding are closely related, but they aren't all measured the same way. Start with the mattress, then work outward.

Mattress Sizes

The most common mattress sizes are:

These are standard mattress dimensions, but actual product dimensions can vary slightly by manufacturer.

Mattress Depth

Don't stop at length and width. Mattress depth matters when you're buying fitted sheets or mattress pads.

Measure from the bottom edge of the mattress to the highest point of the mattress. If you use a mattress topper or pad, include that additional height when determining the required fitted-sheet pocket depth.

A sheet that fits the mattress but doesn't have enough pocket depth isn't really a good fit. It is just a fitted sheet with a short temper.

Sheet Sizing

Choose your sheet size based on the mattress length and width, then check the fitted sheet's pocket depth.

If your mattress is unusually thick, has a pillow top, or uses a topper, look specifically for sheets designed to accommodate the additional depth.

Comforters, Duvets & Blankets

Comforters and duvet inserts are generally sized according to the mattress size they are intended to cover, but dimensions vary between brands.

Before buying, compare the actual product dimensions with your mattress dimensions and consider how much coverage you prefer at the sides and foot of the bed.

Pillow Sizes

Common pillow sizes include:

Pillow dimensions can vary, particularly for decorative pillows, so check the product specifications before purchasing pillowcases or shams.

Bathroom Measurements

Bathrooms often have less available space than other rooms, which makes measuring especially important.

Shower Curtains

A standard shower curtain is commonly around 72" × 72", but shower stalls, clawfoot tubs and other configurations may require different dimensions.

Measure the width of the area you want to cover and the height from the curtain rod to where you want the curtain to end.

Remember that a shower curtain needs enough width to create folds. A curtain that is exactly the width of the opening may cover it, but it won't provide much fullness.

Bath Rugs

Measure the open floor area rather than assuming a standard rug size will work.

For a bathroom vanity, tub or shower, consider both the available floor space and the clearance needed to open doors and cabinets.

Towels

Bath towels and bath sheets come in a range of sizes. A bath sheet is generally larger than a standard bath towel and provides more coverage.

If you're replacing an existing set, measure your current towels and compare those dimensions with the products you're considering.

Dining & Table Measurements

The right tablecloth should fit the table and leave enough overhang to look intentional without becoming a tripping hazard.

How to Measure Your Table

For a rectangular or square table, measure the length and width.

For a round table, measure the diameter from one side directly across to the other.

For an oval table, measure the longest length and the widest point.

Choosing the Right Tablecloth Size

For a traditional tablecloth, a drop of approximately 8–10 inches on each side is a useful starting point.

For a rectangular or square table:

Table length + 16–20 inches = tablecloth length

Table width + 16–20 inches = tablecloth width

For a round table:

Table diameter + 16–20 inches = tablecloth diameter

You can choose a longer drop for a more formal look, but consider the chairs and how the fabric will fall when people are seated.

Table Size, Seating & Shape

The size of the table isn't the only consideration. Think about how many people you want to seat and how much space they need to sit comfortably.

Leave enough room around the table for chairs to move in and out and for people to walk around it.

Window Measurements

Windows are one place where a few inches can make a big difference.

Measuring for Curtains

Measure the width of the window or the area you want the curtains to cover.

Then determine how high you want the curtain rod and how long you want the curtains to hang.

If you want curtains to extend beyond the window frame, measure the entire area the curtains will cover rather than just the glass.

Measuring for Shades

For inside-mount shades, measure the width at the top, middle and bottom of the window opening and use the appropriate measurement based on the manufacturer's instructions.

For outside-mount shades, measure the area you want the shade to cover, including the desired overlap beyond the window opening.

Always check the specific manufacturer's measuring requirements before ordering a custom or made-to-measure product.

Curtain Rods & Hardware

Don't measure only the window.

Consider the total span of the rod, the location of brackets and the clearance required for the curtains to open and close.

If the rod extends beyond the window frame, include that additional width when planning your installation.

Furniture & Room Measurements

Furniture can look surprisingly different once it is inside a room. A product that looks compact online can take up considerably more space in real life.

Measure the Room First

Before buying furniture, measure the room where it will go.

Record the room's width, length and ceiling height, then identify doors, windows, fireplaces, built-ins and other fixed features.

Measure Doorways & Hallways

This step gets overlooked far too often.

Measure the width and height of entry doors, interior doors, hallways and stairways the furniture will need to pass through.

Also consider corners and turns. A piece may fit through the doorway but still be impossible to maneuver around a tight corner.

Furniture Clearance

Think about how the furniture will function after it arrives.

Allow enough space to:

• Open drawers and doors
• Walk around the piece
• Pull out dining chairs
• Move between furniture pieces
• Access windows, switches and outlets

How Much Space Should You Leave Around Furniture?

There is no single clearance number that works for every room, but the basic principle is simple: furniture should leave enough room for people to move comfortably.

When planning a room, measure the furniture footprint and then add the circulation space around it.

Don't Forget Height

Width and depth aren't enough.

Check the height of furniture in relation to windows, artwork, televisions, countertops, shelves and other elements in the room.

A piece can fit perfectly on the floor and still look completely wrong because its proportions don't work with everything around it.

Rug & Room Measurements

The right rug can help define a room. The wrong size can make the furniture look like it is floating around the edges.

Choosing a Rug Size

Start by deciding what you want the rug to do.

Do you want it to anchor the entire seating area? Sit under the front legs of furniture? Define a dining area? Fit beneath a bed?

Then measure the area you want the rug to cover.

Living Room

For a seating area, the rug should generally relate to the furniture rather than simply filling whatever open floor space is available.

A larger rug can help visually connect a sofa, chairs and coffee table into one conversation area.

Dining Room

The rug should extend beyond the dining table far enough that chairs remain on the rug when pulled away from the table.

Measure the table, then account for the additional space required for chairs.

Bedroom

Measure the bed and the area around it.

A larger rug can extend beneath the bed and nightstands, while smaller rugs can be positioned alongside the bed.

Bathroom

Measure the available floor space around the vanity, tub and shower.

Make sure the rug doesn't interfere with doors, drawers or other moving parts.

Quick Reference Measurement Charts

Mattress Sizes

Common Pillow Sizes

Common Tablecloth Calculation

Rectangular or square table:

Add approximately 16–20 inches to both the table length and width for an 8–10 inch drop on each side.

Round table:

Add approximately 16–20 inches to the table diameter for an 8–10 inch drop.

Common Measuring Mistakes

Measuring the Old Item Instead of the Space

An existing piece may be a different size than the new product you're considering.

Forgetting Mattress Depth

Length and width don't tell you whether a fitted sheet will actually stay on the mattress.

Ignoring Door and Drawer Clearance

A piece can fit into a room and still prevent something else from opening.

Assuming Every Manufacturer's Dimensions Are Identical

Product dimensions can vary even when products are sold under the same general size designation.

Forgetting How the Item Will Be Used

A dining chair needs space to pull away from the table. A dresser needs room for drawers to open. A rug needs to accommodate furniture and movement.

Buying First and Measuring Later

This is usually the most expensive way to discover that something doesn't fit.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are Standard Mattress Sizes?

The most common mattress sizes are Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King and California King. Actual dimensions can vary slightly by manufacturer, so check the product specifications when exact fit matters.

How Do I Measure Mattress Depth?

Measure from the bottom edge of the mattress to its highest point. Include any mattress topper or pad that will remain on the bed when the fitted sheet is installed.

How Do I Know What Size Sheets I Need?

Start with the mattress length and width, then check the fitted sheet's pocket depth. Thick mattresses and mattress toppers may require deep-pocket sheets.

How Much Should a Tablecloth Hang Over the Edge?

An 8–10 inch drop on each side is a useful starting point for a traditional table setting. You can choose a longer drop for a more formal look.

What Size Shower Curtain Do I Need?

A standard shower curtain is commonly around 72" × 72", but the correct size depends on the width and height of your shower or tub area. Measure the opening and check the manufacturer's dimensions.

How Do I Measure a Window for Curtains?

Measure the width of the area you want the curtains to cover and determine the desired rod height and curtain length. If the curtains will extend beyond the window frame, include that additional area in your measurements.

How Do I Choose the Right Rug Size?

Start with the furniture or area you want the rug to anchor. Measure that space and choose a rug that provides enough coverage to visually connect the furniture while leaving appropriate clearance around the room.

How Much Space Should I Leave Between Furniture?

The answer depends on the room and furniture, but the goal is comfortable circulation. Measure the furniture footprint and allow enough room for people to walk, sit and use drawers and doors without obstruction.

Why Do Product Dimensions Vary Between Brands?

Manufacturers use their own product dimensions and construction methods. Size names such as Queen or King provide a useful starting point, but the actual listed dimensions should always be checked before purchase.

Shop by Room

Now that you know what fits, explore HomePlace by room:

• Bedroom
• Bathroom
• Dining & Entertaining
• Living Room
• Home Decor
• Window Treatments