Getting a good night’s sleep is crucial for overall well-being, and the right mattress can make all the difference. A mattress that’s too small can leave you feeling cramped and uncomfortable, impacting your sleep quality.
This article provides a comprehensive guide to the dimensions of a king-size bed, helping you determine if it’s the right choice for your needs. We’ll explore the standard king size, often called the “Eastern king,” and its popular variation, the California king. These mattresses are both great options if you want to spread out.
So, what is the width of a king size bed, exactly? Let’s get into it.
King-Size Bed Dimensions: The Essentials
When you’re thinking about buying a king-size bed, you’ll need to consider a few different measurements, including the dimensions of the mattress itself and the dimensions of the bed frame.
Standard King Size Bed (Eastern King)
A standard or “Eastern” king-size bed is 76 inches wide and 80 inches long. This is a great option for couples who want more personal space while they sleep.
King-Size Bed Frame Dimensions
Keep in mind that the bed frame will likely add a few inches to these measurements. Bed frame dimensions can vary slightly depending on the thickness of the materials used and the design of the frame.
When you’re shopping, it’s important to consider the dimensions of the bed frame in addition to the dimensions of the mattress itself.
King-Size Mattress Dimensions
You’ll also want to think about how thick you want your mattress to be. King mattresses typically range from 10 to 16 inches in depth.
King vs. Queen: What’s the difference?
The most significant difference between a king and queen bed is width. A king bed is a full 16 inches wider than a queen. While queen beds are 60 inches wide, a standard king is 76 inches wide. Both beds are usually around 80 inches long.
Many couples prefer a king-size bed because it gives each person significantly more personal space. If you and your partner tend to spread out or move around a lot in your sleep, a king bed will probably result in a more restful night. Some parents also choose king beds so they can comfortably sleep with their kids when needed.
The downside to a king bed is that it takes up a lot more space in your bedroom. If your room is on the smaller side, a king bed could make it feel cramped. You’ll want to carefully measure your room and think about furniture placement before committing to a king.
King vs. California King: Which is Right for You?
So, you’re thinking about getting a king-size bed. Great choice! But did you know there are actually two kinds of king beds? Let’s break down the differences between a standard king and a California king to help you decide which one is best for you.
Dimensional Differences
A standard king-size bed, as we’ve established, is 76 inches wide. A California king, on the other hand, is narrower but longer, measuring 72 inches wide by 84 inches long. So, while you lose 4 inches in width, you gain 4 inches in length.
Bedding Compatibility
Because they’re different sizes, king and California king beds require different bedding. You can’t use king sheets on a California king, and vice versa. If you decide on a California king, it’s a good idea to buy your sheets, comforter, and other bedding at the same time, and perhaps from the same retailer, to ensure a good fit.
Suitability Considerations
So, who should choose which size? Taller individuals often prefer a California king because the extra length provides more legroom. If you’re on the shorter side, or if you simply value width over length, a standard king might be a better fit.
Beyond the Mattress: King-Size Headboard Dimensions
When figuring out how much space a king-size bed will really take up, don’t forget the headboard! While mattress dimensions are standardized, headboard sizes can vary quite a bit depending on the design.
Generally, you can expect a king-size headboard to be around 79 to 81 inches wide. The height is even more variable, typically ranging from 48 to 64 inches. Keep in mind that ornate or oversized headboards can definitely exceed these dimensions.
So, when measuring your space, remember to account for the headboard. A few extra inches can make a big difference in how the bed fits in your room!
Room Size and Placement: Planning for Your King-Size Bed
Before you get too excited about upgrading to a king-size bed, take a moment to consider your bedroom layout. A king bed is a significant investment, and you want to ensure it fits comfortably in your space, leaving you with enough room to move around.
Measuring Your Bedroom
It’s crucial to measure your bedroom before you even think about buying that king-size mattress. Don’t just eyeball it! Get out your measuring tape and note the length and width of the room.
Remember to account for the thickness of the bed frame, too. That ornate headboard might look fantastic, but it could eat into your precious walking space. And be sure to consider the placement of other furniture – dressers, nightstands, armoires – and how they’ll interact with the new, larger bed.
Minimum Room Size Recommendations
As a general rule, a bedroom should be at least 12 feet by 10 feet to comfortably accommodate a king-size bed. However, that’s just a starting point. You’ll want to ensure you have adequate walking space around the bed – at least two feet on each side and at the foot of the bed – to avoid constantly bumping into things.
Maneuverability Considerations
Finally, think about the logistics of getting that behemoth into your bedroom in the first place! Moving a king-size bed, especially the mattress, can be a real challenge. Measure your doorways and hallways to make sure the mattress can actually fit through them. There’s nothing worse than getting your dream bed only to discover it’s too big to get inside!
Other factors influencing mattress choice
Mattress shopping involves a lot more than just picking a size. Here are a few other considerations that may influence what you ultimately decide to buy.
Who’s using the mattress?
The number of people who will regularly sleep on the mattress is a key consideration. Are you a couple? A family who likes to pile into bed on weekend mornings? If you have kids, you may want to consider a larger mattress, such as a king or California king, to accommodate everyone comfortably.
Don’t forget to factor in the needs of any pets who may share the bed. A sprawling Great Dane will take up a lot more space than a dainty Yorkie.
Budget
Mattress size can significantly impact the overall cost, so it’s important to set a realistic budget before you start shopping. A larger mattress will generally cost more than a smaller one, so keep that in mind as you weigh your options.
Comparison shop at different retailers and read reviews to determine the best value for your money. You may find that you can get a higher-quality mattress in a smaller size for the same price as a lower-quality mattress in a larger size.
Non-standard king sizes: Alaskan, Texas, and Wyoming
If you’re looking for something even bigger than a standard king, you might consider an Alaskan, Texas, or Wyoming king mattress. These beds are specialty items, so you may need to order them from a custom manufacturer.
Alaskan king
An Alaskan king mattress measures 108 inches by 108 inches, which is a whopping 9 feet by 9 feet! If you’re considering this enormous mattress, you’ll need a bedroom that’s at least 16 feet by 16 feet.
Texas king
A Texas king mattress is 80 inches wide by 98 inches long. This bed is the same width as a standard king but offers an extra 18 inches in length.
Wyoming king
A Wyoming king mattress is 84 inches by 84 inches, making it a square-shaped bed that’s wider and shorter than a standard king.
The Bottom Line
A standard king-size bed is 76 inches wide and 80 inches long. A California king is longer but slightly narrower, at 72 inches wide and 84 inches long. These dimensions make king mattresses a great choice for couples who like to spread out or for anyone who wants maximum sleeping space.
When choosing a king-size bed, though, you’ll also need to consider your room size, your needs as a sleeper, and your budget. It’s important to remember that purchasing a mattress is a long-term investment, so it makes sense to weigh your options carefully before you buy.