As someone who has gone through the process of buying a new bed, I understand how confusing it can be to choose the right size. I used to have a queen size bed, but as I started sharing it with my partner, we realized we needed something bigger. We were torn between a king and a California king size bed. After doing some research and trying out different sizes in stores, we finally made our decision.
The Size Difference Between King and Cal King
The main difference between a king and a California king size bed is their dimensions. A standard king size bed is 76 inches wide and 80 inches long. On the other hand, a California king size bed is slightly narrower at 72 inches wide, but longer at 84 inches. This means that a California king size bed offers more length, while a king size bed offers more width.
Step-by-Step Guide for Choosing Between King and Cal King
1. Measure your room: Before buying a new bed, measure the space where you plan to put it to ensure that it will fit comfortably.
2. Consider your height: If you or your partner is taller than average, a California king size bed may be more comfortable as it offers more length.
3. Think about your sleeping habits: If you tend to move around a lot in your sleep, a king size bed may be more suitable as it offers more width.
4. Try them out: Visit a furniture store and try out both sizes to get a feel for which one is more comfortable for you.
Top 10 Tips and Ideas for King and Cal King Size Beds
1. Invest in high-quality bedding to make your bed as comfortable as possible.
2. Choose a bed frame that complements your decor style.
3. Opt for a memory foam mattress to reduce motion transfer and provide better support.
4. Use decorative pillows and throws to add a pop of color and texture to your bed.
5. Consider getting a bed with built-in storage to save space in your room.
6. Use a bed skirt to cover any under-bed storage and add a polished look to your bedding.
7. Choose a headboard that provides support for sitting up in bed to read or watch TV.
8. Use a mattress pad or topper to add extra comfort and protection to your mattress.
9. Consider getting a split king or split California king size bed if you and your partner have different preferences for firmness or sleep positions.
10. Use a bed canopy or curtains to add privacy and create a cozy, intimate atmosphere in your bedroom.
Pros and Cons of King and Cal King Size Beds
King size bed pros:
- Offers more width, making it more suitable for couples who move around a lot in their sleep
- Widely available, with a wide range of bedding options and accessories
- Usually more affordable than California king size beds
King size bed cons:
- May be too wide for smaller bedrooms
- May not be long enough for taller individuals
California king size bed pros:
- Offers more length, making it more suitable for taller individuals
- May be a better fit for narrower bedrooms
- Provides a luxurious, spacious sleeping experience
California king size bed cons:
- May be too narrow for couples who move around a lot in their sleep
- Less widely available, with fewer bedding options and accessories
- Usually more expensive than king size beds
My Personal Review
After considering all the factors, my partner and I decided to go with a king size bed. We both move around a lot in our sleep, so the extra width was more important to us than the extra length. We also found that there were more options available for king size bedding and accessories, which made it easier to find items that fit our style and budget. Overall, we are very happy with our decision and have been enjoying our new bed immensely!
Question & Answer and FAQs
Q: What is the difference between a king size bed and a California king size bed?
A: The main difference is their dimensions. A standard king size bed is 76 inches wide and 80 inches long, while a California king size bed is slightly narrower at 72 inches wide but longer at 84 inches.
Q: Which size bed is better for couples?
A: It depends on your sleeping habits and preferences. If you tend to move around a lot in your sleep, a king size bed may be more suitable as it offers more width. If you or your partner is taller than average, a California king size bed may be more comfortable as it offers more length.
Q: Are there any disadvantages to getting a California king size bed?
A: One disadvantage is that California king size beds are less widely available, with fewer bedding options and accessories. They are also usually more expensive than king size beds.