Chances are pretty good that you’re familiar with the “big four” bed and mattress sizes – twin, full, queen and king. However, there’s a popular newcomer to the neighborhood. Just behind these four popular mattress sizes, comes the often misunderstood California king mattress.
“What size is a California king?” “What is the difference between a king and California king mattress?” “Do king sheets fit California king?” “Is a California king bigger than a king mattress?” We hear all of these FAQs from mattress shoppers on a daily basis.
The truth is, there are a ton of questions and misconceptions surrounding California king mattresses. Especially regarding the size and how they compare to a standard king mattress. Let’s tackle these king vs. California king mattress myths and FAQs below!
What Size Is a California King?
California king mattresses are approximately 72 inches wide by 84 inches long (72” W x 84” L). At 7 feet long, they are the longest of all common mattress sizes, making them perfect for tall sleepers.
Is a California King Bigger Than a King Mattress?
No. A common misconception is that California king mattresses are even bigger than regular king mattresses. However, as with most misunderstandings in life, this confusion over king vs California king has a nugget of truth at the center.
While it is true that the California king mattress measures 4 inches longer than a standard king mattress, it is also 4 inches narrower. So, you’re essentially trading some width for extra length. Although this seems like an even exchange, it technically means that a standard King mattress has slightly more sleep surface area than a California King.
For those who want to get nerdy with the math:
72" W x 84" L = 6,048 sq inches of surface area for California King
76" W x 80" L = 6,080 sq inches of surface area for Standard King
What Is the Difference Between a King & California King Mattress?
The only real difference between a standard king size mattress (sometimes called an “Eastern king”) and a California king mattress is the dimensions. King size mattresses measure 76” W x 80” L. California king size mattresses measure 72” W x 84” L. This means that California kings give taller sleepers extra room to stretch out, but that standard king mattresses offer sleepers more room side-to-side.
Even knowing the measurements, California kings and standard kings appear to be very similar in size. In fact, you may not even notice the difference between them unless you’re looking at them side-by-side. As such, it’s very easy to get them mixed up.
Here at Woodstock Furniture & Mattress Outlet, this is why we ask shoppers to double check that they indeed need a California king and not a standard king before we agree to place their order for a California king mattress or bed. This is easily done by taking measurements of the mattress or bed you’re wanting to replace.
Do King Sheets Fit California King? How About Beds, Foundations, Headboards, & Bed Frames?
One final note to make when it comes to king vs California king mattresses, is that not all furniture, bedding and accessories are interchangeable. However, there are a few places where the difference in size is minimal enough to get away with swapping them.
Let’s start with the furniture itself. Is it possible to use a king size bed frame or headboard with a California king mattress? Kinda. California king mattresses might be compatible with a regular king size headboard or traditional bed frame, but that ultimately depends on the particular frame and headboard. Traditional metal bed frames can often adjust to fit sizes from a queen, to a king, to a California king mattress. However, king size beds complete with headboard, footboard and side rails are not usually compatible with California king mattresses.
Okay, but how about box springs and/or mattress foundations? Unfortunately, this one is another “no”. While king mattresses can easily be paired with 2 twin XL box springs or mattress foundations (which combine to form a king foundation), California king mattresses require specially built mattress foundations.
Finally, bedding and accessories is a place where you can maybe get by with king size on a California king. While king size fitted sheets are a no-go on a California king, king size pillows, pillow cases, shams, and even flat sheets can work on a California king in a pinch. Similarly, a king-size comforter or duvet can work on a California king as long as you understand that it will be a bit short towards the head or foot of the bed. However, please understand that none of these will fit as well as bedding made specifically for a California king. For that reason, we recommend customers go ahead and buy bedding made for their new California king mattresses.
So, Is a California King Mattress Right for You?
Now that you’ve discovered the truth behind the most common California king FAQs, you should be ready to go! Have more questions about California kings or mattresses in general? Be sure to visit our long list of mattress resources. Looking for specifics on other common (and uncommon) mattress sizes? Look no further than our guide to mattress sizes.
Lastly, if you’re in the market for a mattress – whether it be California king or otherwise – come visit us at any of our North Georgia and Atlanta area furniture and mattress stores. We’re proud to offer our customers quality mattresses for any budget, from a number of great brands. Hope to see you soon!
