If you’re shopping for a new bed, you probably want to know what is the width of a king size mattress. This is a key measurement that determines if it will fit your room and sleep needs.
King size beds are famous for offering ample space, but their exact dimensions can sometimes be confusing. Getting the width right is the first step to planning your bedroom layout and ensuring a comfortable night’s sleep.
What Is The Width Of A King Size Mattress
The standard width of a king size mattress in the United States is 76 inches. This measurement is consistent across the industry for a traditional king, sometimes called an Eastern King. It provides plenty of room for couples to spread out.
When you pair it with it’s standard length of 80 inches, you get a total sleep surface of 6,080 square inches. That’s a lot of space for you and a partner, or even for a single sleeper who loves extra room.
Standard King vs. California King: A Width Comparison
It’s crucial to distinguish between a standard King and a California King. While their names are similar, their dimensions are different.
- Standard King (Eastern King): Width: 76 inches. Length: 80 inches.
- California King: Width: 72 inches. Length: 84 inches.
Notice the difference? A California King is actually 4 inches narrower than a standard King. However, it makes up for this by being 4 inches longer. So, when asking about width, you must specify which type of king you mean.
Why the Exact Width Matters for Your Bedroom
Knowing the 76-inch width is just the start. You need to plan for the entire footprint of the bed. A mattress sits on a foundation or bed frame, which adds to the overall width.
Here’s a quick planning checklist:
- Mattress Width: 76 inches.
- Frame/Bed Width: Can add 2 to 5 inches per side.
- Headboard/Footboard: May extend further.
- Walking Space: Aim for at least 24 inches on each side and at the foot.
A good rule is to have a room that’s at least 12 feet by 12 feet to comfortable fit a king bed. Otherwise, the room can feel cramped and difficult to navigate.
Measuring Your Room for a King Mattress
Follow these steps to ensure a perfect fit:
- Clear the space where the bed will go.
- Using a tape measure, note the length and width of the available wall space.
- Subtract at least 48 inches from the room’s width (for 24″ on each side).
- Subtract at least 24 inches from the room’s length (for space at the foot).
- The remaining number should be greater than 76 inches wide by 80 inches long.
International King Size Width Variations
If you are outside the United States, “king size” means something different. This is vital for buyers who are moving or purchasing imported furniture.
- UK King Size: Width: 150 cm (approx. 59 inches). Length: 200 cm (approx. 79 inches).
- Australian King Size: Width: 183 cm (approx. 72 inches). Length: 203 cm (approx. 80 inches).
- European King Size (160×200): Width: 160 cm (approx. 63 inches). Length: 200 cm.
As you can see, the U.S. standard king is the widest common option globally. Always check local sizing charts before you make a purchase in another country.
Bed Frames and Foundations: Adding to the Total Width
Your 76-inch wide mattress will not float in mid-air. The bed frame or foundation it sits on will add to the overall dimensions. Platform beds often have a side rail that adds an inch or two on each side.
Ornate sleigh beds or frames with substantial side panels can add even more. Always check the manufacturer’s specifications for the “overall width” of the bed frame, not just the mattress it holds.
Tips for Dealing with a Tight Fit
If your room is just a few inches to narrow, don’t panic. Consider these solutions:
- Choose a low-profile platform bed without bulky side rails.
- Opt for a simple, wall-mounted headboard to save space.
- Place the bed on the wall with the shortest door or closet access to maximize walkway space.
- Use smaller, round nightstands to avoid sharp corners in narrow walkways.
King Mattress Width for Couples: Is It Enough?
For most couples, a 76-inch width is excellent. It allows each person about 38 inches of personal sleep space. That’s wider than a standard twin mattress! It helps minimize sleep disturbance from movement.
However, if one or both partners are very active sleepers or are larger in stature, you might consider an even bigger option, like a Wyoming King or an Alaskan King, which can be over 100 inches wide. These are specialty sizes, though, and require a very large room.
Accessorizing Your King Bed: Sheets, Mattress Pads, and More
Once you have your king mattress, you need bedding that fits. This is where knowing the exact width prevents headaches. A standard king fitted sheet is designed for 76″ x 80″.
Be careful: a “California King” sheet set will be to long and to narrow for your standard king mattress. It will not fit properly and will come off the corners. Always double-check the package label before buying.
A Quick Bedding Size Guide
- Flat/ Fitted Sheet: Must say “Standard King” or “Eastern King.”
- Comforter/Duvet: King sizes are typically around 104 inches wide to allow for draping.
- Mattress Protector: Ensure it’s specified for a 76″ x 80″ mattress.
The Cost Implications of Width
A wider mattress requires more materials, which increases cost. It also needs a stronger, often more expensive, bed frame and foundation. Larger bedding (like comforters and sheets) is also more costly than queen or full sizes.
Beyond the inital purchase, consider long-term costs. Moving a king mattress requires a larger truck and more effort. And rotating a heavier, wider mattress is a two-person job.
Common Mistakes When Planning for King Mattress Width
Let’s avoid some frequent errors people make.
- Forgetting the Nightstands: You might fit the bed, but then have no room for tables. Measure the total width including planned nightstands.
- Ignoring Doorways and Stairs: A 76″ wide mattress is also 80″ long and very flexible. It must be maneuvered through your home. Measure hallways, stairwells, and sharp turns.
- Assuming All Kings Are Equal: Mixing up Standard and California King dimensions leads to the wrong purchase.
- Overlooking Vent Covers and Outlets: Ensure the bed won’t block essential air vents or electrical outlets you need.
Alternatives if a Standard King is Too Wide
If your room can’t handle 76 inches of width, you have great alternatives that still offer couple-friendly space.
- Queen Mattress: Width: 60 inches. A good compromise for smaller rooms.
- Olympic Queen: Width: 66 inches. A bit more width than a standard queen.
- California King: Width: 72 inches. Narrower but longer than a standard king.
Each of these options provides a different balance of space and room layout. It’s all about finding the right fit for your specific situation.
Making a Final Decision
Before you click “buy,” do this final review:
- Re-measure your room’s clear floor space.
- Confirm the mattress width (76″ for Standard King).
- Add the frame’s total width to your calculations.
- Map the delivery path into your bedroom.
- Choose bedding labeled for the correct size.
FAQ Section
Q: What is the width of a king size bed in feet?
A: A standard U.S. king size mattress is 76 inches wide, which is 6 feet and 4 inches across.
Q: How wide is a king size mattress compared to a queen?
A: A king mattress is 76 inches wide, while a queen is 60 inches wide. The king gives you an extra 16 inches of width, which is significant for couple’s sleeping space.
Q: Is a king size mattress the widest one available?
A: No, it’s the widest standard size. Specialty sizes like Wyoming King (84″ wide), Texas King (80″ wide), and Alaskan King (108″ wide) are even larger, but they are custom orders and not widely available.
Q: Can two adults sleep comfortably on a king?
A: Absolutely. The 76-inch width is considered ideal for two adults, providing ample personal space to reduce sleep disturbance. It’s a top choice for master bedrooms.
Q: Does the mattress width include the frame?
A: No. The mattress width (76″) is just the sleep surface. The bed frame or foundation will add additional width, sometimes several inches per side. Always check the frame’s overall dimensions.
Q: What if my room is exactly 76 inches wide?
A: Your room is to narrow. You must account for the bed frame’s added width and need walking space on at least one side. A king mattress will not fit properly in a 76-inch wide room.
Q: Are there two types of king size mattresses?
A: Yes, primarily the Standard King (76″x80″) and the California King (72″x84″). Their widths are different, so it’s important to know which one you are looking at.
Choosing the right mattress size is a big decision for your comfort and your home’s layout. Now that you know the answer to “what is the width of a king size mattress,” you can shop with confidence. Remember the key number: 76 inches for a standard U.S. king. Use this as your starting point, account for your frame and room size, and you’ll be on your way to many nights of spacious, restful sleep.