A good night’s sleep is something we all love, and the type of mattress you have plays a big role in how well you sleep. One of the largest mattress sizes is called the California King, and if you’re wondering “what size is a California king mattress?”, you’re in the right place! In this article, we’ll talk all about it. We will explain its exact measurements, how it compares to other mattresses, and why it could be the perfect choice for you.
What Is a California King Mattress?
A California King mattress, often referred to simply as a Cal King, is a large mattress that’s perfect for people who need extra space while sleeping. It’s one of the biggest mattresses available, and it’s known for being longer than the traditional king-sized bed. But don’t worry—we’ll get into the specifics! Also read What Size Is a California King Mattress?
Exact Size of a California King Mattress
So, what size is a California king mattress exactly? A California King mattress measures 72 inches wide and 84 inches long. That means it’s 6 feet wide and 7 feet long! Imagine laying on something that gives you plenty of room to stretch your legs without hitting the end of the bed. That extra length is one of the reasons why the California King is such a popular choice for taller people.
California King vs. Regular King: What’s the Difference?
You might have heard of the regular King-sized mattress, so how does it compare to the California King? Well, the regular King mattress is wider but shorter. It measures 76 inches wide and 80 inches long. That’s 4 inches wider than a California King, but 4 inches shorter in length.
Here’s a quick comparison:
- California King: 72 inches wide, 84 inches long
- Regular King: 76 inches wide, 80 inches long
So, if you like having a little more width to roll around in bed, a regular King might be the better option. But if you’re tall or just like extra legroom, the California King is the clear winner.
Why Choose a California King Mattress?
Now that we know what size is a California king mattress, let’s talk about why you might want one. There are several reasons why a California King might be the perfect choice for your bedroom.
- More Legroom for Tall People: If you’re tall, say over 6 feet, you’ve probably experienced your feet hanging off the edge of the bed. With a California King, that’s no longer an issue because it’s 7 feet long!
- Space for Couples: If you and your partner like having plenty of space to stretch out, a California King can provide that. Even though it’s a bit narrower than a regular King, there’s still plenty of room for both of you to sleep comfortably.
- Great for Large Bedrooms: If you have a big bedroom, you’ll want a big mattress to fill the space. A California King not only gives you more sleeping space but also looks grand in a spacious room.
- Ideal for Pets or Kids: Do your kids or pets like to jump into bed with you? The extra space of a California King can make it easier for everyone to snuggle without feeling cramped.
Will a California King Mattress Fit in My Room?
Before you rush out to buy a California King, you need to make sure it will fit in your bedroom! A California King mattress is quite large, so your room should have enough space for it. Most experts recommend that your bedroom should be at least 12 feet by 12 feet if you plan to have a California King. That way, you’ll still have room for other furniture, like nightstands and dressers.
Pros and Cons of a California King Mattress
Like anything in life, the California King mattress has its pros and cons. Let’s break them down:
Pros:
- Extra Length: The main advantage is the extra length, which makes it perfect for tall people.
- Plenty of Space for Two: It’s still wide enough for couples to sleep comfortably without bumping into each other.
- Fits Large Bedrooms: If you have a spacious bedroom, the California King is the perfect size to make the room look balanced.
Cons:
- Narrower than a Regular King: While it’s longer, it’s not as wide as a regular King mattress, which might be a downside if you like more space to spread out.
- Harder to Move: A California King mattress is big and heavy, making it tricky to move around. You might need help getting it into your house or up the stairs!
- Takes Up Space: If your room isn’t very big, a California King might feel a little too large and could leave you with less room for other furniture.
Types of California King Mattresses
When choosing a California King mattress, you have several options based on the materials used. Here are some common types:
- Memory Foam: Memory foam mattresses are known for their ability to conform to your body. They provide excellent support and comfort, especially for people who suffer from joint pain.
- Innerspring: Innerspring mattresses use coils to provide support. They tend to be firmer and have a more traditional feel compared to memory foam.
- Hybrid: A hybrid mattress combines both memory foam and innerspring coils. This gives you the best of both worlds—support and comfort.
- Latex: Latex mattresses are made from natural materials and are known for being durable and bouncy. They also tend to sleep cooler than memory foam.
How to Choose the Right Mattress
Choosing the right California King mattress depends on several factors. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Comfort Level: Some people like firm mattresses, while others prefer soft ones. Try out a few to see which one feels best to you.
- Sleeping Position: If you sleep on your side, a softer mattress might be better. If you sleep on your back or stomach, a firmer mattress might provide better support.
- Body Temperature: If you tend to get hot while sleeping, you might want to choose a mattress that’s designed to keep you cool, like a latex or hybrid mattress.
Bedding for a California King Mattress
Now that we’ve answered what size is a California king mattress, you might be wondering about bedding. Because the California King is a special size, you’ll need bedding specifically made for it. That includes sheets, blankets, and comforters.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- California King Fitted Sheet: Look for fitted sheets that are 72 inches by 84 inches.
- Flat Sheet and Comforter: These should also be large enough to cover the entire mattress without leaving you short on coverage.
Most stores carry bedding for California King mattresses, so you shouldn’t have trouble finding the right size
Is a California King Mattress Expensive?
One of the questions people often ask is whether a California King mattress is expensive. Because it’s larger than a standard mattress, it can cost a bit more. The price of a California King mattress can range anywhere from $500 to $2,500 or more, depending on the brand, materials, and features. Memory foam and hybrid mattresses tend to be on the pricier side, while traditional innerspring mattresses are usually more affordable.
Keep in mind that the price of your mattress will also depend on the quality. You might want to invest in a high-quality mattress that will last you many years, especially if you want to enjoy a good night’s sleep for a long time!
Conclusion: Is a California King Right for You?
So, now that we’ve explored what size is a California king mattress, you can see that it’s an excellent option if you need extra length, love to stretch out, or have a large bedroom. The California King provides plenty of space for couples, taller individuals, and even families who share the bed with pets or kids. However, it’s important to measure your room first to ensure it fits comfortably and consider your budget, as these mattresses can be more expensive.
Whether you choose a California King or another size, the most important thing is that your mattress helps you sleep comfortably. After all, a good night’s sleep is priceless!