Should You Get a California King Bed? 3 Questions to Ask Yourself
Dreaming of a good night’s sleep? You’re not alone. According to recent surveys, almost 60% of respondents say they would feel better with more sleep. Similarly, another study found that even Americans who spend more time in bed are not feeling any less exhausted upon rising. While there are numerous theories as to why this must be, it makes sense to assume that your bed type also plays a role in sleep quality. After all, The New York Post estimates that the average person spends almost half of their life in bed.
With this in mind, you may be compelled to invest in a luxurious bed like the California King. Known for being one of the biggest bed sizes on the market, the Cal King, as it’s also called, is a great choice for those who want a roomy and supportive night’s sleep. However, given its size and relatively larger price tag, it’s important to ask yourself some key questions before taking the plunge.
Do I have the space for it?
Although it may seem obvious, it’s easy to get carried away and overlook that a big bed requires significant floor space. This is especially true if it comes with matching furnishings. Take the California King bedroom sets from Living Spaces. Apart from the bedframe itself, each set typically includes a dresser and a nightstand. In the case of certain sets, like those from Willow Creek, a vanity mirror may even be included. Overall, this is why many designers suggest using Cal Kings in bedrooms that are at least 12 feet long and wide.
That said, California Kings are not bulky. They’re a little less wide but notably longer than standard kings, measuring 72 by 84 inches. These measurements also mean they’re ideal for extra tall sleepers, those who like extra legroom, or those who like to leave room at the end of the bed for their pets. Cal Kings are pretty easy to work around if you have the room.
Do I require specific bedding and mattresses?
Evidence suggests that your mattress and sheets can greatly affect your sleep quality. A CNET sleep report explains that many people are sensitive to the linens and cushions they use during bedtime. For instance, a lumpy mattress may cause back pain, while threadbare linens can cause allergies. In many cases, these effects can be so pronounced that they even cause the development or worsening of sleep issues like insomnia. Furthermore, couples who share a bed may have specific needs that require specialized products. For example, couples with differing firmness needs may need a split mattress, such as those from Ortho Mattress.
Knowing this matters when considering a California King since its larger size means beddings and mattresses are more expensive. If you do need a more specialized item, you may even need to pay extra for customization. Since Cal Kings aren’t as common as queens, doubles, or twins, even ready-made options may not be as expansive.
Does it complement my home style?
Finally, most Cal Kings are made of wood or a mixture of wood and steel. These materials are the most durable and reliable, ensuring they can support the size of the bed. While these materials are normally given different finishes or wood veneers, you must gauge if a mostly wooden bed fits your overall aesthetic to narrow your search. For example, if you’re going for a Nordic vibe, you need a Scandinavian bed frame with natural wood and straightforward silhouettes. Think of minimalist designs, like the Wishbone chair by Hans Wegner.
Having said this, California Kings come in a variety of designs. To illustrate, the Adriana model features classic American home angles, while the Voyage model from designers Nate Berkus and Jeremiah Brent leans more toward coastal Zen. With this, you’ll be able to find a design that suits your style.
California Kings are fantastic bedroom additions that will elevate any sleep experience. Hopefully, these questions will help you determine if this bed is right for you.