If you're looking to buy a twin-size mattress, you are likely on a tight budget, or it's intended for a small bedroom, guest room, dorm room or kid's room. Here are some considerations to keep in mind while shopping.

Co-sleeping

Twin mattresses are the smallest bed size. If you co-sleep or share the bed with a partner or pets, we recommend opting for at least a full-size mattress instead. Full mattresses are a little pricier, but not by much -- for example, a twin-size Leesa Studio mattress retails for $549, and a full-size retails for $699. It could be worth the upgrade if you plan to share the bed.

Construction

You don't have to sacrifice comfort or quality when buying an affordable twin mattress. Keep in mind that hybrid beds with coils will be more durable and likely last longer since coils won't degrade as foam does over time. We recommend looking for a twin mattress at least ten inches thick, especially if you are an average or heavy-weight person. Lighter individuals and children can get by on a thinner mattress.

Firmness

If you're looking to buy a twin mattress for yourself, consider your sleeping position. Side sleepers will be more comfortable on softer beds with plenty of pressure relief, while back and stomach sleepers typically prefer firmer mattresses for spinal support.

Kids tend to like a softer, plusher feel, but the bed shouldn't be too soft -- their growing bodies need adequate support for their spines as they develop. Generally, a mattress that's at least medium-firm is the recommended firmness level for children.

If you're searching for a twin-size mattress for your guest bedroom, consider a model with a medium firmness level. This accommodates anyone who decides to stay, from your side-sleeping Aunt Karen to your back-sleeping and snoring Grandpa Joe.

Price

Budget will play a significant role in the mattress you purchase. The average twin-size mattress price tag can range from $600 to $1,200, but plenty of great options are below that price point. Determining your budget first will help narrow down the best picks for you, and you don't necessarily have to compromise comfort or quality when purchasing a cheaper bed.