How Do You Measure King Size Bed Dimensions Step By Step?

Choosing the right king size bed can transform your bedroom into a comfortable and luxurious space. Before you buy a new mattress, bed frame, bedding or new bedroom furniture it is important to determine the exact dimensions of your king size bed. 

When you measure your bed accurately, you will save yourself from unnecessary expenses, get a perfect fit and would find it easy to find the right accessories for your bed.

Not all king size beds are the same size, many individuals think that they all are. Standard King, California King and other changes are different widths and lengths. The bed frame, headboard and footboard can also impact the total size that takes up your bedroom.

This step-by-step article will show you how to get the right measurements for king size bed without making any mistakes and advise you to pick the right accessories to use.

Why Do You Need To Measure Your King Bed?

The key to a cozy bedroom arrangement is accurate measurements. If you are replacing an old mattress, buying new bedding or renovating your room, knowing the right size will guarantee that everything fits.

Accurate dimensions allow you to purchase fitted sheets that stay put, select a bed frame that’s suitable for your bed, and ensure your room has enough room, as well as easy delivery through doorways and hallways. Not only will you avoid return and extra costs but also bed measuring will reduce the hassle involved.

What Are The Standard Size Measures Of A King Size Bed? 

The standard king size bed dimensions are the width and length of the mattress measured with a measuring tape. Accurate measurements are taken on a flat surface when measuring the width and length from one outside edge to the opposite outside edge of the mattress. 

The standard king size bed mattress is 76 inches in width and 80 inches in length (around 193 cm × 203 cm). When measuring a bed frame rather than the mattress, remember to add the headboard, footboard and side rails, which can add to its size. Also, if you are thinking about a bed mattress under storage or matching the height of your bedside furniture, it is wise to measure the height of the bed mattress and the total height of your bed. Measure twice and buy right to make sure you get the right bedding, accessories and room configuration for a good fit. 

1. Collect The Proper Measuring Instruments

Using the correct tools is the first step to accurate measurement. A firm, long measuring tape is needed to measure the width and length of the bed. All measurements can be recorded directly on a notebook or in a smartphone. If you are measuring larger beds, it may be quicker and more accurate if you have someone helping you. Flexible sewing tape should not be used for large measurements as it may stretch and give inaccurate results.

2. Remove Bedding And Accessories

Clear away decorative cushions, mattress toppers, blankets, comforters and pillows before measuring. Do not leave bedding on the mattress as it will affect the edges and may not be accurate. A clean and uncovered mattress will make it easy to see which corners and sides are which. When measuring the entire crib, rather than the mattress, clear the bed frame of any additional furniture that may stand above it.

3. Measure The Width

The width is taken from one side of the mattress directly across to the other. Rest the measuring tape on the widest spot and make sure the tape is kept straight. Write the measurement without rounding off numbers.

• Most common king mattresses will be around 76 inches wide.
• Make the measurement again to check for accuracy.
• Select the “Length” step.Click on the “Length” Step.
• Then, measure the mattress from head to foot.

Place tape at the top edge and run it to the bottom edge. Straighten the tape, do not bend it around corners. The average king size bed is 80 inches, but there may be slight variations in manufacturing.

4. Measure The Height Of The Mattress

Although not widely considered, height is an important factor when it comes to fitted sheets and mattress protectors. Start at the bottom edge of the mattress and go up to the highest point on the top edge so you do not compress the material.

There are so many different thicknesses to modern mattresses. Some pillow top mattresses are 8 inches thick while luxury pillow top mattresses can be over 15 inches thick. With the knowledge of the height, you can select fitted sheets that have deeper pockets.

5. You Will Need To Measure The Bed Frame

When buying new furniture or making bed changes when renovating a room, take into account the full bed frame, not just the mattress.

Measure the overall width (side rails included). Then measure the distance between the headboard and the footboard. Last but not least, write the head and foot board heights (if applicable). King size bed frames can expand the king size bed by a few inches, or even a foot.

6. Measure Space Available In The Bedrooms

You need to measure the bed as well. Another important consideration is the amount of room you have in your room. Use a tape to determine the total length and width of the bedroom. Next calculate the amount of walking space around the bed. For most interior designers, a minimum of 24 or 36 inches of walking space is recommended on each side of the bed that is accessible. This additional space will make the room easier to move around in, and help with furniture layout and comfort.

7. Students Compare Their Measurements

Once all measurements have been taken, verify with manufacturer specifications. In case you find that your measurements are different from the advertised size, re-measure to make sure it is accurate.

There are some mattresses that have been used for a long time which may have a bit of elongation or some mattresses are specially made to differ from the standard king size bed. Measurement comparisons are used to make sure substitutes work.

Standard King vs California King

There are many people who get the Standard King and the California King confused.

• They have a Standard King width of about 76 × 80 inches.
• California King is a narrower but longer mattress that is about 72 × 84 inches.
• Generally, the California King is better for individuals taller than 6 feet and the Standard King is better for couples due to the extra width.

These differences help to avoid buying the wrong mattress or bedding.

What Are The Common Mistakes To Avoid While Measuring A King Size Bed?

Determining the size of a king bed mattress might appear simple enough, but even minor errors can result in the wrong mattress, bed frame or sleeping pad for a king size bed. The most frequent mistake is only measuring the mattress and forgetting about the rest of the bed frame, which can be made up of a headboard, footboard and rails on the sides and will add to the bed’s overall size. 

Another error is to estimate the king size bed of the bed rather than taking a measuring tape out to the room where the bedroom is going to be placed, if the size of the bed is not correct then it won’t fit in the room. Some people also overlook the doorways, hallways and staircases before they move in or fit a king size bed, which can make it difficult to move it. 

Another common mistake is taking the standard king bed for the California King bed, since the two beds are of different sizes. It’s also essential to leave room for walking around the bed, not just if the bed fits in the room. 

Last but not least, always take two measurements and check the specifications of the manufacturer before buying a new bed frame or mattress. These steps will prevent you from making unnecessary and expensive errors and will make sure that your king size bed fits your room and your lifestyle. 

When You Have An Exact Measurement You Can Buy Much Easier

Look for fitted sheets, which are made to fit your mattress. Use comforters that have adequate overhang on both sides. Use the same width, length, and thickness of mattress protectors.

When buying a bed mattress, don’t overlook the fact that it may have a pillow top or extra top. Carefully reading the product specifications can help achieve a perfect fit.

How Often To Take Your Bed Measurement?

While mattresses don’t usually grow or shrink much, it’s a good idea to check the dimensions before purchasing replacement bedding and/or accessories. If you buy a new mattress topper, change your mattress, get a new bed frame or move into a new home, measure again.

The Advantages Of Correct Measurements Of Beds

There are many benefits to taking accurate measurements other than just purchasing the correct sheets. It makes for the best use of your bedroom space, helps plan the furniture better, avoids returns and prevents the mattress from slipping out of the bed frame. It also makes online shopping much easier as you can easily compare your measurements with the product specifications. In the end, some time put into measuring can save both time and money, and make a comfortable sleep environment.

Final Thoughts

Taking the time to measure a king size bed correctly can make all the difference when it comes time to purchase bed frames, fitted sheets, mattress protectors, bed mattress and bedroom furniture. With a little patience and foresight, and the proper tools and attention to detail, you can prevent some of the most typical sizing errors and ensure your purchase is the correct one.

But if you own a standard king or a California king, it’s important to get the right dimensions so that all of your accessories fit just right and you don’t end up with a bedroom that keeps you from sleeping or enjoying the space. If you’re considering buying a new bed, measure your bed correctly because it’s a small step that makes for long-term convenience and comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions