Are you in the market for a king-size bed? If so, you may have encountered the term “Eastern king bed.” But what exactly is an Eastern king bed? Is it different from a traditional king-size bed or a standard king bed? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Eastern king beds, including their dimensions, history, comparisons to other king-size beds, and factors to consider before purchasing.

What is an Eastern King-Size Bed?

An Eastern king-size bed, also known as an Eastern king mattress or a standard king bed, is a spacious sleeping solution that measures 76 inches wide and 80 inches long. It offers ample room for couples or individuals who prefer extra sleeping space. With its generous dimensions, an Eastern king bed provides a comfortable sleeping environment for various sleepers.

The Origin of the Name “Eastern King Bed”

You might wonder why it’s called an “Eastern” king bed. The term was initially used to distinguish it from another popular king-size bed option at the time – the California king bed, also known as the Western king mattress, the “Western” king bed. As houses in the US grew larger after World War II, there was a demand for bigger bed sizes. California king beds gained popularity, especially on the west coast.

Eastern king beds were introduced to cater to the trend of larger beds and provide an alternative to California king beds. Unlike California king beds, which are narrower and longer, Eastern king beds offer more width. Over time, Eastern king beds became a standard mattress size in the country, and the “Eastern” was eventually dropped from the name of Cal king for simplicity’s sake.

Eastern King Bed vs. Other King-Size Beds

While there are no “Northern” or “Southern” king-size beds, other variations of king-size beds are worth mentioning. Let’s compare Eastern king beds to Eastern king mattresses with some of these other options:

Eastern King Bed vs. California King Bed

• Eastern King (Standard King): Measures 76 inches wide and 80 inches long.
• California King (Western King): Measures 72 inches wide and 84 inches long.

The main difference between Eastern king beds and California king beds lies in their dimensions. While Eastern king beds are 4 inches wider, California king beds are 4 inches longer. This makes California king beds a better choice for taller individuals who need more legroom, while Eastern king beds provide additional width for those who prefer more sleeping space.

Eastern King Bed vs. Split King Bed

• Eastern King (Standard King): Measures 76 inches wide and 80 inches long.
• Split King: Two mattresses measuring 38 inches wide and 80 inches long.

A split king bed consists of two mattresses that are the same size as a standard king bed. However, they are split in the middle, allowing each side’s traditional king mattress to be adjusted independently to suit individual preferences. Split king beds are popular among couples who have different sleeping preferences or require customized support. They also excel at motion isolation.

Eastern King Bed vs. Wyoming King Bed

• Eastern King (Standard King): Measures 76 inches wide and 80 inches long.
• Wyoming King: Measures 84 inches wide and 84 inches long.

The Wyoming King bed is slightly larger than a standard king bed, providing more room for a comfortable sleep. With its dimensions of 84 inches by 84 inches, the Wyoming King bed size offers extra space for individuals who desire a more spacious sleeping area.

Eastern King Bed vs. Texas King Bed

• Eastern King (Standard King): Measures 76 inches wide and 80 inches long.
• Texas King: Measures 80 inches wide and 98 inches long.

The Texas King bed, also known as the athletic king, super king, or grand king bed, is wider than an Eastern king bed. It measures 80 inches wide and 98 inches long, making it perfect for taller individuals who need the extra length, such as athletes or those who prefer a more extensive sleeping area.

Eastern King Bed vs. Alaskan King Bed

• Eastern King (Standard King): Measures 76 inches wide and 80 inches long.
• Alaskan King: Measures 108 inches wide and 108 inches long.

The Alaskan King bed is the largest option available if you’re looking for the ultimate oversized mattress. With its massive dimensions of 108 inches by 108 inches, the Alaskan King bed can comfortably accommodate up to four adults. It provides an exceptionally roomy sleeping area for individuals or families who desire maximum space.

Eastern King Bed vs. Other Standard Mattress Sizes

Apart from comparing Eastern king beds to other king-size beds, it’s essential to understand how king-size mattresses differ from standard mattress sizes, such as twin, twin XL, full, and queen. Let’s explore these size comparisons:

Here are different bed sizes and who they’re good for:

• Twin: 38 inches wide and 75 inches long, good for one person or a small child.
• Twin XL: 38 inches wide and 80 inches long, great for taller individuals or growing teenagers.
• Full: 54 inches wide and 75 inches long, providing ample space for most single sleepers to stretch comfortably.
• Queen: 60 inches wide and 80 inches long, roomy for one person, and a popular budget choice for couples.

All these common sizes of Eastern king-size beds are smaller than an Eastern king bed, which is 76 inches wide and 80 inches long. While Eastern king beds provide more sleeping space, it’s crucial to consider the bedroom size, budget, and personal preferences before choosing this mattress size.

Is an Eastern King Bed Right for You?

Now that you are familiar with Eastern king beds and how they compare to other king-size beds, it’s time to determine if an Eastern king bed is the right choice for you. Here are some factors to consider:

Ample Sleeping Space

One of the primary reasons to choose an Eastern king bed is the generous sleeping area it provides. With its 76 inches of width, an Eastern king bed is the best option for couples who like to move around during the night without feeling cramped. It allows for more freedom of movement and reduces the chances of bumping into each other.

Ideal for Taller Individuals

If you’re a taller individual measuring over 6 feet, an Eastern king bed offers the advantage of additional legroom. Its length of 80 inches provides enough space for your legs to stretch comfortably. You won’t have to worry about your feet hanging off the edge of the bed, ensuring a restful night’s sleep.

Spaciousness and Aesthetic Appeal

An Eastern king bed can create a luxurious sleeping environment if you have a large bedroom with ample floor space. Its size and presence can give your master bedroom an elegant and grand feel. An Eastern king bed can become the room’s focal point, adding a touch of sophistication and enhancing the overall aesthetic.

Versatility for Co-Sleeping

An Eastern king bed is a versatile option for co-sleeping arrangements. It can comfortably accommodate parents with children or pets who want to share the bed. With its expansive sleeping surface, everyone can enjoy a good night’s sleep without feeling crowded or restricted.

Limited Bedroom Space

An Eastern king bed may not be the most practical choice if your bedroom is smaller. Its size can dominate the space, leaving little room for walking or placing other furniture. It’s essential to consider the available floor space and ensure that the bed doesn’t overwhelm the room’s layout.

Bedding Accessories and Cost

Finding suitable bedding accessories for an Eastern king bed can be more expensive than standard bed sizes. Items like box springs and bed frames need to match the size of the Eastern king bed, which can increase costs. Additionally, the larger dimensions of the eastern king-size mattress can require more materials, making the bed more expensive.

Solo Sleepers

If you’re a single sleeper who doesn’t require a larger bed, an Eastern king bed may be unnecessary. It can take up more room than needed without providing significant benefits in return. Consider your sleep habits, preferences, and the size of your bedroom before deciding on an Eastern king bed.

Factors to Consider Before Buying an Eastern King-Size Bed

Choosing the right mattress involves more than just understanding the differences between various sizes. It’s essential to consider the type of mattress that suits your needs. Different mattress types, such as latex, memory foam, innerspring, and hybrid mattresses, offer unique features for different sleepers and sleeping positions.

For side sleepers, mattresses with cushioning, such as latex or memory foam, may provide better pressure relief and support. On the other hand, back and stomach sleepers may prefer the firmer support offered by innerspring or hybrid mattresses. Consider your preferred sleeping positions and any specific comfort requirements before making a decision.

FAQs

What is a split king?

A split king-size mattress is exactly what it sounds like – a standard king-size mattress divided into two separate halves. Each half has the dimensions of a twin XL mattress, which measures 38 inches by 80 inches.

Split king mattresses offer the advantage of customization for couples with differing firmness preferences. For instance, if one partner is a side sleeper who prefers a softer mattress while the other is a stomach sleeper who prefers a firmer surface, a split king mattress allows them to sleep comfortably side by side. Additionally, split king mattresses are often used with adjustable bed bases, making them more versatile and accommodating than a standard king mattress.

Do two twins equal a king?

No, two twin-size mattresses do not add up to the dimensions of a king mattress or any other standard mattress size. However, combining regular king-size mattresses with two twin XL mattresses gives you the same overall size as a king bed. This is commonly done by placing two twin XL mattresses side by side, creating what is referred to as a split king mattress. Couples often opt for this arrangement when they prefer mattress firmness or when using a king-size adjustable bed.

Is a super king the same as a California king?

A super king is different from a California or regular king mattress. A super king is a nonstandard mattress size typically measures 80 inches by 98 inches. It is also sometimes referred to as a grand king, athletic king, or Texas king. On the other hand, a California king mattress is a standard size in the United States, measuring 72 inches by 84 inches. The term “super king” is more commonly used in regions like the United Kingdom and Ireland, and it refers to a mattress that’s 72 inches by 84 inches in those areas.

Can you place a king-size mattress on a queen-size frame?

In theory, you can place a king-size mattress on a queen-sized frame. A king mattress is 80 inches long, matching a queen bed’s length. However, the issue arises with the width. A king mattress is 16 inches wider than a queen mattress, and this extra width would extend beyond the edges of the queen-sized frame. This overhang could affect the mattress’s support and overall comfort. It’s generally recommended to use a bed frame, box spring, or mattress foundation that matches the size of your mattress to ensure it receives proper support and longevity.

Can I use a king headboard on a California king bed?

Using a king-size headboard on a California king bed is possible, depending on how the headboard attaches to the bed frame. Keep in mind that a king headboard will be 4 inches wider than a California king bed frame. While you might be able to make it work, it’s advisable to use bedding and accessories that are sized specifically for a king-sized mattress, a California king mattress, to ensure a proper fit and a cohesive look.

Conclusion

In conclusion, an Eastern king bed, also known as a standard king bed, offers a spacious and comfortable sleeping solution. Measuring 76 inches in width and 80 inches in length, it offers plenty of space for couples or individuals who want extra room while sleeping. Eastern and traditional king beds have their advantages and considerations, such as ample sleeping space, versatility for co-sleeping, and aesthetic appeal. However, evaluating factors like bedroom size, budget, and personal preferences is crucial before choosing an Eastern king bed. These factors will help you make a smart choice and pick the right mattress for your requirements.