If you’re shopping for a new bed, you might be asking, what is the width of a california king mattress? It’s a common question, especially for taller people or those with spacious bedrooms. This size is famous for its extra length, but its width is actually a bit unique compared to other common mattress sizes.
Understanding the exact dimensions is crucial before you buy. It helps you choose the right frame, sheets, and even plan your room layout. Let’s break down the numbers so you can make the perfect choice for your sleep needs.
What Is The Width Of A California King Mattress
The standard width of a California king mattress is 72 inches. This is measured from the left side to the right side when you are standing at the foot of the bed. In feet, that’s 6 feet across. While it’s known for being long, its width is actually narrower than a standard king size mattress.
For comparison, here are the full dimensions of common mattress sizes:
- Twin: 38″ W x 75″ L
- Twin XL: 38″ W x 80″ L
- Full/Double: 54″ W x 75″ L
- Queen: 60″ W x 80″ L
- Standard King (Eastern King): 76″ W x 80″ L
- California King: 72″ W x 84″ L
California King vs. Standard King: The Width Difference
This is where most of the confusion happens. A standard king mattress is wider but shorter. It offers 76 inches of width but only 80 inches of length. The California king flips this: it sacrifices 4 inches of width to gain 4 inches of length.
So, why does this matter? Think about who is sleeping in the bed.
- For couples who are both tall, the extra length of a Cal king is a lifesaver. No more feet hanging off the edge!
- For couples who prefer more individual sleeping width or have pets/children joining them, the extra 4 inches on a standard king might feel more spacious side-to-side.
Why the Exact Width Measurement is So Important
Knowing the precise 72-inch width isn’t just trivia. It affects several key parts of your purchase and bedroom setup.
1. Buying the Correct Bed Frame and Foundation
Your bed frame or foundation must be designed to support a California king. A standard king frame will be 4 inches too wide, and a queen frame will be far too small. Always check the manufacturer’s specs to ensure it lists support for 72″ x 84″ dimensions.
2. Finding the Right Bedding
Sheets, mattress protectors, and comforters are size-specific. California king bedding is made for the 72″ x 84″ form. If you accidentally buy standard king sheets, they will be too wide and too short, leading to a poor fit and constant slipping.
3. Planning Your Bedroom Layout
With a width of 6 feet, you need to ensure your room can handle it. You’ll want at least 2 feet of walking space on each side and at the foot. Measure your room carefully, considering other furniture like nightstands and dressers. Don’t forget to account for door swings and closet openings!
Step-by-Step Guide to Measuring Your Space for a Cal King
Before you order, follow these simple steps to ensure a perfect fit.
- Clear the Space: Move your current bed and any clutter out of the way to get an accurate floor measurement.
- Measure the Room: Use a tape measure to find the length and width of the floor space where the bed will go. Write these numbers down.
- Account for the Frame: Remember, the bed frame can add 2 to 8 inches to the total footprint. Most frames add about 2-3 inches per side. So, a 72-inch wide mattress on a typical frame might need about 76-78 inches of total floor width.
- Check Walkways: Mark the planned bed location with tape. Ensure you have clear paths to doors, windows, and closets. A minimum of 24 inches is recommended for walkways.
- Consider Height: If you’re adding a tall headboard, make sure it doesn’t block windows or light switches.
Who is a California King Mattress Best For?
Given its specific width and length, the Cal king is an ideal choice for certain situations.
- Tall Individuals (over 6’2″): The 84-inch length is the main attraction, providing ample room to stretch out fully.
- Couples with a Height Difference: If one partner is very tall, this size accommodates them without forcing the other partner into a massive sea of bed.
- Master Bedrooms that are Long and Narrow: If your room is more like a rectangle, the shape of the Cal king can fit better than a wider standard king.
- Single Sleepers Who Love Space: For someone who sleeps alone but wants maximum starfish-style luxury, the Cal king offers incredible length and plenty of width.
Common Challenges and Solutions with the Cal King Width
Choosing this size isn’t without its hurdles. Here’s how to overcome them.
Challenge 1: Limited Bedding Options
You won’t find as many pattern or color choices for Cal king bedding compared to queen or standard king. Solution: Shop at larger department stores, online specialty retailers, or consider custom-made bedding. Always double-check the size label before purchasing.
Challenge 2: Moving and Maneuvering
At 72 inches wide and 84 inches long, it’s a large, awkward item to move. It often won’t fit around tight stairwell corners. Solution: Many modern mattresses come in a “bed-in-a-box” format, compressed and rolled for easier handling. For traditional mattresses, professional movers are a wise investment.
Challenge 3: Higher Cost
The specialty size often comes with a higher price tag for the mattress, frame, and bedding. Solution: Budget accordingly. Look for sales, especially around holidays, and consider the long-term investment in better sleep.
Special Considerations: Variations and “Split” Options
The standard 72-inch width is just the beginning. You have other configurations available.
- Split California King: This is two separate mattresses, each 36 inches wide by 84 inches long, placed side-by-side on a single frame. It’s perfect for adjustable beds where each sleeper can control their own side. It also solves the problem of moving one giant mattress.
- California King Waterbeds: These still follow the 72″ x 84″ outer dimension, but the internal water chamber dimensions may vary slightly. Always consult the manufacturer’s spec sheet.
- Custom Sizes: Some manufacturers will make slight adjustments. Always confirm the finished product dimensions before a custom order is finalized.
Maintaining Your Mattress for Longevity
A mattress of this size and cost should be cared for properly. Here’s a simple maintenance routine.
- Use a Mattress Protector: This is non-negotiable. It guards against spills, stains, dust mites, and allergens, preserving your warranty.
- Rotate Regularly: Every 3-6 months, rotate your mattress 180 degrees (head to foot). This ensures even wear across the 72-inch width and 84-inch length. Some mattresses (like one-sided pillow-tops) only need rotating, not flipping.
- Support it Right: A weak or slatted foundation can cause sagging. Ensure your bed frame has a sufficient number of center support legs and sturdy slats no more than 3 inches apart.
- Clean Spills Immediately: Blot—don’t rub—any liquid with a clean cloth. Use a mild soap with cold water if needed, and let it air dry completely.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is a California king bigger than a king?
It depends on how you define “bigger.” A California king is longer (84″ vs. 80″) but narrower (72″ vs. 76″) than a standard king. In total square inches, a standard king is slightly larger (6,080 sq in vs. 6,048 sq in for a Cal king).
Can I use standard king sheets on a California king bed?
No, you cannot. Standard king sheets are designed for 76″ x 80″ dimensions. They will be too wide and too short for a 72″ x 84″ California king mattress, leading to a loose and ill-fitting cover that will likely come off during the night.
What are the dimensions of a California king in feet?
A California king mattress measures 6 feet in width (72 inches) and 7 feet in length (84 inches). This is super helpful to know when visualizing it in your room, which is usually measured in feet.
Is a California king good for couples?
Yes, especially if one or both partners are tall. While it offers 4 inches less width than a standard king, the 72-inch width still provides 36 inches of personal space per person, which is the same amount as a standard twin bed for each sleeper. The trade-off for extra length is worth it for many.
Why is it called a California king?
The name is believed to have originated in the 1960s in Los Angeles, designed to accommodate taller celebrities and basketball players in their spacious, often glamorous homes. The longer, leaner shape also suited the trendy, elongated bedroom layouts found in many modern Californian homes at the time.
Making Your Final Decision
So, what is the width of a california king mattress? You now know it’s 72 inches, or 6 feet across. This specific width, paired with its great length, makes it a specialized choice. It’s not automatically “better” than a standard king—it’s just different.
Your decision should come down to three things: the height of the sleepers, the dimensions of your bedroom, and personal preference for space. If length is your priority, the Cal king is unmatched. If you prefer maximum width for spreading out, the standard king might be the way to go.
Take your time, measure twice, and consider your sleep needs for the next decade. Investing in the right mattress size is a key step toward countless nights of better rest. With the facts clear, you can now shop with confidence for the perfect bed.