If you’re thinking of investing in a California king mattress from City Mattress, you may want to know more about it so that you’re sure you’re making the right choice. For one thing, a California king mattress is slightly narrower than a standard king, and it requires more space, the right bed frame, and specific bedding. You’ll also want to ensure it can fit in your bedroom.
The Difference Between a Standard King and a California King
There are different types of mattresses: twin, queen, king and California king. While the differences between queen and king are obvious, the differences between standard king and California king can be confusing. The key differences between the two come down to their size and their proportion. However, this can have a huge impact on your comfort, overall aesthetics and how it fits into your bedroom space.
A king size mattress is more of a square shape with dimensions of 76 inches wide and 80 inches long. On the other hand, a California king mattress looks more rectangular with dimensions of 72 inches wide and 84 inches long. The key takeaways are that the king-size mattress is wider while the California king mattress is longer.
Width Difference
If you’re part of a couple and need space to spread out, a standard king bed may be the better choice. Those extra 4 inches can make a big difference.
Height Difference
If you’re around 6’ 2” or taller, a California king may be the better choice to ensure your feet don't hang off the edge of the bed, providing a more comfortable sleep experience.
Keep in mind that standard king bedding — including sheets, fitted sheets and bed frames — is more widely available, giving you more options and potentially lower costs. Since California king bedding is less common, it may be harder to find and slightly more expensive. However, if you love the idea of pure luxury and a California king feels like the perfect fit for your needs, it may be well worth the investment.
What Size Room Is Ideal for a California King Bed?
A California king is a luxurious choice, and you can enjoy the comfort of a large bed without feeling cramped. However, you’ll need the space for it. The minimum size of a bedroom should be 12 feet by 14 feet. This will allow you to walk around the bed comfortably. You’ll also be able to add nightstands, dressers, or other small accessories. If your room is smaller than the minimum size, your bedroom will feel cramped. Plus, walking around the room will be difficult. Worse, you’ll be limited as to how much additional furniture you can add.
Determining Whether a California King Will Fit
Before purchasing a California king, start by measuring your room to ensure a proper fit. Ideally, you should have at least 2 to 3 feet of space on each side of the bed for easy movement. Also, consider the other bedroom furniture you plan to include — nightstands, a small desk or a dresser — so that everything fits comfortably without feeling cramped. Lastly, make sure there’s enough clearance to open doors and access closets without obstruction.
California king beds are best suited for longer, rectangular-shaped rooms rather than square ones. This allows the bed to be a focal point without overwhelming the space. For the most comfortable layout, bedrooms measuring at least 14 feet by 16 feet provide ample room for the bed and additional décor.
The Benefits of Buying a California King Bed
Many people choose California king beds for their sheer luxury, but these beds offer a surprising number of benefits. Without the extra length or generous space, some people may suffer from a poor night’s sleep. Here are more reasons why upgrading to a California king may be beneficial.
Extra Length
California king mattresses are 84 inches long, which is 4 inches longer than the standard king. This extra 4 inches makes it ideal for tall people. A California king size mattress can ensure tall sleepers don't have their feet dangling off the edge of the bed while they sleep.
Good for Narrower Bedrooms
California king beds are longer rather than wider. This may mean a better fit than a standard king in narrow rooms. The rectangular design allows for more space on the sides for walking or adding additional décor.
Spacious for Couples and Co-Sleeping
While a California king is 4 inches narrower than a standard king, it still provides plenty of room for couples. It’s also great for adults whose kids like to jump into bed with them in the middle of the night or the early morning. Pet owners can share their beds with their pets, too, without feeling cramped.
Better Motion Isolation
Because of the sheer size of a California king, there's better motion isolation. This means you’re less likely to feel your partner’s shifts and turns during the night.
Resort-Like Feel
And, of course, having a California king bed gives your bedroom a high-end, resort-like feel.
Picking the Right Bed Frame for Your California King
Picking the right bed frame is important because not all bed frames can fit a California king mattress. Also, adjustable beds may not be able to fit an innerspring California king mattress. These are details you want to look into before you make any purchases. To ensure your bed base is compatible with your California king mattress, buy them at the same time. For example, our Ergomotion Duetto Split Top Adjustable bed base at City Mattress can fit queen, standard king and California king-size mattresses. Here’s how to choose the right bed frame.
Pick the Correct Size
You can either get an adjustable bed frame or find one that’s specifically designed for a California king mattress (not a standard king mattress). If you accidentally pick a standard king bed frame, your mattress will hang over the edge.
Find a Bed Frame That Matches Your Bedroom’s Aesthetics
Make sure that your bed frame matches your bedroom’s style. Your style may be minimalist, modern, traditional, rustic, luxurious, grand, or a mixture of two types.
Material Is Important
Since a California king mattress is large, pick a durable bed frame that can handle the weight. Our Ghost Bed offers a heavy-duty metal bed frame, for instance. You may also want to add a box spring below the mattress for additional support.
Different Types of California King Beds
Besides the size of California king beds, the type of bed can make a huge difference in terms of functionality and aesthetics. Here are some types of California king beds available.
Platform Beds
If you don't want to add a box spring to your mattress, you can go with a platform bed. This sleek, minimalist choice is great for contemporary and modern bedrooms.
Metal Beds
Metal California king beds are durable and lightweight. Metal beds are ideal for those looking for something timeless, durable and classic.
Canopy Beds
Love luxury and elegance? Canopy beds have four posts and a frame for drapery. A canopy bed is ideal for those who want to make a statement with their California king bed.
Storage Beds
For those looking to mix functionality with design, a California king bed with under-bed compartments allows you to do just that.
What Kind of Pillows Do I Need for My California King Bed?
Many people tend to overlook pillows when shopping for beds and mattresses. However, the right pillows not only create a balanced look, but they can also ensure you get a good night’s sleep.
For sleeping pillows, you want a pillow that supports your neck and head based on your sleeping position. You also want the right size. King-size pillows are 20 inches by 36 inches. Two king-sized pillows should fit across your California king mattress.
If you’d like to add decorative pillows for a more inviting look, think about large, square pillows that measure 22 inches by 22 inches. These large pillows can add dimension if you have a headboard. Or you can invest in a king wedge pillow that extends across the width of your bed. You can also invest in pillows designed for how you sleep, such as stomach-sleeper or back-sleeper pillows. To create a balanced look, keep your larger pillows at the back, add your sleeping pillows next, and finish with your decorative or accent pillows in the front.
Shop All PillowsIs a California King Bed Right for You?
A California king bed often brings to mind luxury and elegance, but it isn't necessarily the right bed for you. If you're thinking of purchasing a California king, consider factors like the size of your room, your height, and the available bedding. However, if you love the idea of having extra legroom, a large bed and improved motion isolation, then a California king from City Mattress is absolutely worth it.
Image Credits
imoooun/Shutterstock.com
Tatyana Mi/Shutterstock.com
DIGSAM/Shutterstock.com
BGStock72/Shutterstock.com
