Choosing the right bed size is a significant decision for anyone looking to upgrade their sleeping experience. Among the many available options, the California King bed stands out, especially for people who want extra room. But how big is a California King, and why should you consider it over other sizes? In this article, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about this large and luxurious bed size, making it easy to understand for readers of all ages, even young children.
What is a California King?
The California King bed, also called the “Cal King,” is one of the largest bed sizes you can buy. It’s longer and narrower compared to a standard king bed, which makes it an excellent choice for tall individuals. If you’re someone who needs extra legroom or simply enjoys more space while sleeping, the California King is a popular option.
Dimensions of a California King
The exact size of a California King bed is 72 inches wide and 84 inches long. To put that into perspective, that’s 6 feet wide and 7 feet long! This makes it the longest standard bed size on the market, ideal for people who are taller than average. If you’ve ever found yourself or someone in your family hanging off the edge of a bed, a California King could be the perfect solution.
Now, you might wonder how this compares to other bed sizes. Let’s take a look at how the California King stacks up against other options.
California King vs. Standard King Bed
When we compare the California King to a regular king bed, which is sometimes called the “Eastern King,” we notice a few key differences. A standard king bed is 76 inches wide and 80 inches long, which means it’s wider but shorter than a California King.
So, if you’re someone who values width over length, you might prefer the standard king bed. It’s 4 inches wider than a California King, which can be great for couples or families who co-sleep with kids or pets. However, if you’re tall, the extra 4 inches of length that the California King offers can make a world of difference for a more comfortable sleep. Also read The Joy of Playing HOV Tabs Guitar: A Beginner’s Guide
Why is it Called a California King?
You may be wondering, why is this bed called a “California” King? The name is a bit of a mystery, but most believe it originated in California during the 1960s when the demand for larger, more luxurious beds was growing. At the time, people were looking for something bigger and better than the standard king-sized bed, and thus, the California King was born.
The bed became especially popular in California, where bigger homes allowed for larger furniture, including massive beds. That’s how it got its unique name, though today, you can find California King beds all across the United States and even around the world.
Who Should Get a California King?
The California King is not just for anyone. It’s a bed for people who either need or want more space. Let’s go over a few types of people who might benefit the most from a California King bed:
- Tall Individuals: If you’re taller than 6 feet, a California King is a game-changer. The extra length ensures that your feet won’t hang off the end of the bed, which is common with shorter mattresses.
- Couples Who Value Space: While a standard king offers more width, the California King still provides plenty of room for couples who want their own sleeping space but don’t mind sacrificing a bit of width for length.
- Pet Owners or Families: If you share your bed with pets or children, the extra length can provide more room for everyone to sleep comfortably without feeling cramped.
- People With Large Bedrooms: If you have a large bedroom and want a bed that matches the scale of your space, a California King is the perfect fit. Its size commands attention and fills the room nicely.
Does a California King Fit in Any Bedroom?
Before buying a California King, it’s essential to measure your bedroom to make sure the bed will fit comfortably. A California King, as mentioned earlier, is 72 inches wide and 84 inches long, so you’ll need a fairly large room to accommodate it.
Experts recommend that you have at least two to three feet of space around the bed to move around comfortably. So, if your bedroom is small or you don’t have much extra space, a California King might not be the best choice. In general, a room should be at least 12 feet by 10 feet to accommodate this bed.
Bedding for a California King
Since the California King is not as common as other bed sizes like the queen or standard king, finding bedding that fits perfectly can sometimes be a bit of a challenge. You’ll need special California King-sized sheets, blankets, and comforters.
Luckily, many retailers today offer a wide selection of California King bedding, so you won’t have to search too hard. It’s important to get sheets that are the right size because using bedding designed for a standard king won’t fit well on a California King mattress. It might be too short or not cover the bed completely.
What Mattresses Fit a California King?
The good news is that most major mattress brands offer California King mattresses. Whether you prefer a memory foam mattress, an innerspring, or a hybrid option, you’ll likely find one that fits your preferences.
Since a California King is larger, these mattresses tend to be pricier than smaller options. However, for many people, the extra investment is worth it for the comfort and space the bed provides.
Types of California King Bed Frames
A California King bed requires a larger bed frame than most other sizes. Luckily, there are a variety of options to choose from. Some of the most popular frame styles include:
- Platform Beds: These are sleek and modern, offering a minimalist look while supporting the mattress without the need for a box spring.
- Storage Beds: If you need extra storage space, consider a California King frame with built-in drawers underneath. This can help you save space while keeping your bedroom organized.
- Canopy Beds: For a more luxurious and elegant feel, canopy beds are a great choice. Their tall posts and draped fabric can add a touch of drama to your bedroom.
- Adjustable Beds: If you enjoy watching TV, reading, or working from your bed, an adjustable bed frame allows you to raise or lower different parts of the mattress for maximum comfort.
Pros and Cons of a California King
Like any bed size, the California King comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Let’s break them down:
Pros:
- Extra Length: Perfect for tall individuals or those who simply want more legroom.
- Luxurious Feel: A California King gives your bedroom a spacious and grand appearance.
- Comfort for Couples and Families: There’s enough space for couples, kids, and pets to sleep comfortably.
Cons:
- Requires a Large Room: If your bedroom is small, a California King may take up too much space, leaving little room for other furniture.
- More Expensive: The bed, mattress, and bedding tend to be more costly than smaller options.
- Harder to Move: Due to its size, moving a California King can be more challenging compared to smaller beds.
Conclusion
In summary, a California King bed is an excellent choice for anyone who needs more space, whether it’s for height, comfort, or room to share. At 72 inches wide and 84 inches long, it provides ample space for taller individuals and can accommodate families or pets who share the bed. However, it’s essential to have a bedroom that’s large enough to fit the bed comfortably.
If you’re considering a California King, it’s worth taking the time to measure your room and explore different bedding and frame options to make sure it’s the right fit for your home. With the right setup, a California King can transform your sleep experience, giving you the comfort and luxury you deserve.
So, how big is a California King? Big enough to make a significant difference in your comfort and sleeping space!