Eastern King Vs. California King

The differences between an Eastern king and a California king bed.

Many people have the misconception that a California king bed is bigger than a Eastern--or standard--king bed. However, the reality is that both sizes offer something different. For instance, the Eastern king is wider than a California king, while the California king is longer. In fact, California native David Bergeson developed the California king in 1982 because of his need for a bed to suit his height. In today's bedding market, the California king bed has become a popular choice when considering between both king-size beds.

Eastern King

A regular king-size bed can also be called an "Eastern king" bed. Eastern king beds are 80 inches long by 76 inches wide; they are the largest beds sold to the general public in the American market. They are also the widest beds that are produced and commercially manufactured in the United States. Eastern king beds are the best size available for a couple, as the width gives each person a section of bed that is roughly the same size as having a twin bed.

California King

California king beds are also known as "Western king" beds. These beds are 84 inches in length and 72 inches in width. The California king bed is the longest bed that is available on the commercial market. The beds are more difficult to find than the Eastern king beds, as they are largely sold in the western part of the United States. Because they are 4 inches less wide than the Eastern king beds, Western kings do not have as much room for couples, but they are an ideal choice for adults who are taller than average.

Moving Considerations

Before making a final decision, you must take into account the bulk factor both bed sizes represent. Both the Eastern and California king beds are awkward to move, mostly if you live in a home with tight corridors or single doorways. You will need to proactively evaluate if there are areas in your home that may represent a problem when moving the bed inside. Measure the widths of any area in question to make a decision. Keep in mind that you can opt to use two twin extra-long beds placed side by side to prevent the bulk of a king-size box spring. The twin extra long bed--unlike the regular twin--measures 80 inches in length just like the Eastern king. The super single measures 84 inches in length, which is the length of the California king. However, in both scenarios the twin box springs will make the bed slightly wider when positioned side-by-side.

Prices

Usually California and Eastern king beds are in the same price range or close. However, since the California king bed is mostly sold in the West Coast region, shipping fees may increase the cost for people who need to have the bed delivered. Also, according to the Dimensions Guide website, if you live in areas like the East Coast, California king beds will cost more as they are not usually sold there.

Buying Sheets

Eastern king beds are known and sold nationally. However, California king beds are not available at a national level. Therefore, when it comes down to buying sheets, it can become a challenge in some areas to find bedding for California king beds. Fortunately, some companies that sell sheets use the larger Eastern and California king dimensions, making it possible to use them to fit both bed sizes without difficulty. The Internet is also a good source if you want California king bedding options. Sheets for California king beds can cost more than Eastern king sheets, mostly if you don't live in an area where selling California king beds is common.

References

• The Better Sleep Council: What Size Mattress is Best?
• Dimensions Guide: California King Dimensions
• Dimensions Guide: Twin Bed Dimensions