A king-size bed, including models like a California king mattress, can cover areas of up to 5 feet in width and 6 feet in length, making it the largest standard size mattress available on the market. The king bed comes in a wide range of styles, from conventional spring to memory foam. Therefore, you can choose from plenty of king size full mattresses. 

A king mattress was first launched in the 1940s. It represents a significant transformation for individuals who are used to sleeping on a queen size mattress, having decided that they need some extra space. 

This size provides enough surface area for two sleepers to stretch and spread out. Therefore, they no longer have to sleep on the sides of the bed. If sleepers have children or cuddly partners bouncing in and out of mattress, the king’s surface can provide everybody with the space they want. 

Additionally, the king mattress gives enough space between sleepers. This space not only creates more room but also tends to lessen movement when a partner suffers from a disturbed night’s sleep.

When you co-sleep, this factor makes it much easier to cuddle, and still leaves plenty of distance to stretch when the cuddling time is over. 

While different versions are easily accessible, conventional North American king size mattresses are 76 inches wide and 80 inches in length. 

Also, there are some variations on the king size mattress dimensions. A split king adds up to the same measurements but takes the design of two twin XL mattresses positioned side-by-side. The California king size is 72 inches wide and 84 inches long, offering tall sleepers more vertical space.

Married people and family members often tend to lean towards this size and its alternatives, as additional space indicates that there is plenty of room for two or more sleepers. Interior design supporters and those looking for a personalized appeal happen to prefer the king size for its aesthetically beautiful shape and luxurious appearance. 

Furthermore, buying a mattress online is possible, with many manufacturers providing a bed in a box spring set in standard king size. Some companies can pack and roll the mattress so that it can be delivered in a reasonably small box right at your door.

King Bed vs. Queen Bed vs. California King Bed

Both king and California king beds are larger than queens. Although their overall surface area remains the same, they have many dimensions. 

A king mattress is wider with dimensions covering 76 x 80 while a California King is slightly longer. This is the most standard model, and the size is excellent for most couples and parents who require some extra space along the edge of the bed. 

Queen beds are 60 inches in width by 80 inches in length. The significant difference, as you can see, is just with the width. Nevertheless, the 16 inches is undoubtedly important. Queen models are suitable for people who sleep on their own. Yet, they prefer a more spacious option, or for couples who do not have the privilege of a big master bedroom and want something denser and space-efficient. 

A California King measures 72 x 84 inches. This layout is also good for taller people who need some additional space for their legs. The California King appears to take 4 inches from the width and adds it to the length. This indicates that the California King bed is more extended than both King and queen size mattresses. In terms of width, it comes somewhere between a king and queen size.

Who Is a King Bed Ideal For?

A king-size bed appears to be suitable for couples and for parents who enjoy co-sleeping with their children. The king bed offers eight extra inches for each person compared to a queen-size bed, making it perfect for master bedrooms, but it may be too big for some people.

What to Consider When Buying a King Mattress

Material

Foam Mattress: They are designed from products like polyfoam and memory foam, and all-foam furniture has high-density components. Although there are drawbacks, such as low longevity and a capacity to sleep hot, foam mattresses are among the most accessible in the industry. They are almost quiet and have higher motion isolation.

Innerspring Mattress: Although most have small convenience layers produced of polyfoam, added steel coils hold most of an innerspring mattress. This traditional type of bed is cost-effective and supportive. However, they can also be loud, with reduced motion isolation and pressure relief.  

Hybrid Mattress: Hybrid mattresses are designed to combine synthetic or latex foam with a hidden coil support center and offer some of the disadvantages. Although the best hybrids are achieving excellent overall results, the price points are sometimes higher, and they tend to have a shorter lifespan.

Firmness and Feel

Choices differ from one sleeper to another. However, most people under 130 pounds favor softer mattresses. In comparison, those above 230 pounds consider firmer beds more convenient, and those in the middle tend to choose smoother or mid-firm beds based on their sleeping position. This is because sleep pattern preference also plays a crucial role in determining the best mattress that meets your needs. 

For instance, someone who is a side sleeper usually needs high-pressure relief, as he may have a risk to experience pressure points on their hips and shoulders. 

A back sleeper typically likes something that can lead to an equal distribution of his weight across the bed surface. These people also get a medium feeling because it fills the gap between their sides and arms without throwing them out.

No matter where you sleep, make sure that you are receiving something that suits your body type and needs.

Bedding and Bed Frames

It is essential to ensure that you have the proper size when buying a bed frame or bed sheets for your king-size bed. Variants such as split and California king mattresses are different from regular kings, and some beds are thicker than others.

Trial Period

Many companies offer a trial period. These tests allow shoppers to assess these beds in their homes within the allotted time. In case they are not happy with the purchase, they can return their mattress or replace it with a new one.

Warranty

Brand names give a selection of warranty period. Some even provide a lifetime assurance. If the damage is caused within the time of the guarantee, the brand would then deliver a new mattress to its clients.

Certifications

These are provided by private entities that evaluate beds for national safety standards and safe quantities of substances and heavy metals.

Other Types of King Mattresses

Although the king bed is the standard, there are several king-size versions as well. 

Split King: They are two twin XL beds which are mounted side by side and can be attached. Couples often like these beds and enjoy the lack of movement transition. in many cases this type of bed is also adjustable. 

Alaska King: One of the rarest King size variants, Alaska King mattresses are a huge 108 inches by 108 inches, or 9 feet square. This larger mattress is hard to get on the market. 

Wyoming King: Another rare variant that is 84 inches, or seven feet, square. They are similar in size to the regular King, but they are larger, bigger, and perfectly square.

Wrapping up

Choosing the right bed is a significant investment that can last for years. Like all sleep-related issues, someone’s choice between a queen or a king bed is personal. People should take a moment to take into account all the aspects of their lives, namely the budget, space, sleep pattern, and their partners. 

We are here to help you make a smart decision. we offer in-depth reviews on all main mattress brands, including comparisons and recommendations for each type of sleeper. Whether you are a back, side, or stomach sleeper, you can find here the information to make an educated decision. Once you decide on your needed mattress size, you can shop around and see what kind of bed and mattress suits you best.