A Comprehensive Guide to Cal King vs. King Bed Dimensions

Introduction

When choosing a new bed, one of the most important decisions you'll make is selecting the right size. For those who crave ample sleeping space, cal king and king size beds are the most popular options. But what's the difference between these two sizes? And which one is right for you?

Cal King vs. King Bed Dimensions

The key difference between a cal king and a king bed lies in their dimensions:

As you can see, a cal king bed is 4 inches longer and 4 inches narrower than a king bed.

Which Size Is Right for You?

The best bed size for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Here are some factors to consider:

Height

If you're over 6 feet tall, a cal king bed may be more comfortable for you, as it provides extra legroom.

Sleep Position

Back and stomach sleepers may prefer a king bed, as they need more width to move around freely. Side sleepers, on the other hand, may find a cal king bed more comfortable, as it provides extra length for stretching out.

Room Size

The size of your bedroom will also influence your choice. A king bed requires more floor space than a cal king bed. If your bedroom is on the smaller side, a cal king bed may be a better fit.

Sharing

If you share your bed with a partner, a king bed may be more comfortable, as it provides more width for each person. However, if you and your partner have different sleep preferences (e.g., one prefers more legroom, the other prefers more width), a cal king bed may be a better option.

Table: Cal King vs. King Bed Dimensions Summary

Table: Cal King vs. King Bed Bedding Sizes

Table: Average Cal King and King Bed Prices

Stories and Lessons Learned

Story 1

John and Mary were a tall couple who had always slept in a queen size bed. As they got older, they found themselves waking up with aching backs and necks. They decided to upgrade to a larger bed and opted for a cal king. They were amazed at the difference it made. John could finally stretch out his legs, and Mary had plenty of room to move around without disturbing her husband.

Lesson: If you're tall or have a long torso, a cal king bed can provide the extra legroom you need for a comfortable night's sleep.

Story 2

Sarah and her husband shared a king size bed for years. They were both back sleepers and needed ample width to toss and turn. However, Sarah started to notice that her husband's snoring was becoming more frequent and disruptive. She realized that he needed a bed that was longer to accommodate his growing height. They switched to a cal king bed, and the snoring problem disappeared.

Lesson: If you share your bed with a partner who snores, a cal king bed may help reduce snoring by providing them with extra legroom.

Story 3

Emma was a petite woman who loved to cuddle with her cats. She had always slept in a twin size bed, but she decided to upgrade to a larger bed for more comfort. She opted for a king bed, thinking that it would be perfect for her and her furry friends. However, she quickly realized that the bed was too big for her and it made her feel isolated. She ended up selling the king bed and purchasing a cal king bed instead, which was the perfect size for her needs.

Lesson: Don't assume that a larger bed is always better. Consider your individual size and needs when choosing a bed.

Tips and Tricks

How to Choose the Right Bed Size for Your Needs

1. Measure your height and the length of your bed.
2. Consider your sleep position.
3. Determine the amount of floor space available in your bedroom.
4. If you share your bed with a partner, consider their needs and preferences.

How to Measure Your Bed

1. Use a measuring tape to measure the length and width of your bed frame.
2. If you're measuring a mattress, remove any bedding first.
3. Measure from the inside edge of one side rail to the inside edge of the opposite side rail.

How to Set Up Your Cal King or King Bed

1. Place the bed frame on a level surface.
2. Assemble the bed frame according to the manufacturer's instructions.
3. Place the mattress on the bed frame.
4. Add your bedding and pillows.

Pros and Cons of Cal King vs. King Beds

Cal King

Pros:
- Extra legroom for taller individuals
- More comfortable for side sleepers
- May be more suitable for smaller bedrooms

Cons:
- Can be more difficult to find bedding for
- May not be as wide as some couples prefer

King

Pros:
- More width for couples
- More comfortable for back and stomach sleepers
- May be easier to find bedding for

Cons:
- Less legroom for taller individuals
- May not be as comfortable for side sleepers
- Requires more floor space

FAQs

1. What is the difference between a cal king and a king bed?

A cal king bed is 4 inches longer and 4 inches narrower than a king bed.

2. Which size bed is right for me?

The best bed size for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Consider your height, sleep position, room size, and whether you share your bed with a partner.

3. What is the average price of a cal king or king bed?

The average price range for a cal king bed is $400 - $2,500, and the average price range for a king bed is $450 - $3,000.

4. What size bedding do I need for a cal king or king bed?

The following table shows the standard bedding sizes for cal king and king beds:

5. How do I set up my cal king or king bed?

1. Place the bed frame on a level surface.
2. Assemble the bed frame according to the manufacturer's instructions.
3. Place the mattress on the bed frame.
4. Add your bedding and pillows.

6. What are the pros and cons of cal king and king beds?

Cal King

Pros:
- Extra legroom for taller individuals
- More comfortable for side sleepers
- May be more suitable for smaller bedrooms

Cons:
- Can be more difficult to find bedding for
- May not be as wide as some couples prefer

King

Pros:
- More width for couples
- More comfortable for back and stomach sleepers
- May be easier to find bedding for

Cons:
- Less legroom for taller individuals
- May not be as comfortable for side sleepers
- Requires more floor space

7. Which size bed is more popular?

King beds are more popular than cal king beds.

8. What is the most common size bed in the United States?

The most common size bed in the United States is the queen bed.