California King Vs. Full Mattress Sizes

Written by Zulekha Nishad

Last Updated September 2, 2024

California King vs. Full Size Mattress - Are you struggling to decide between these two mattress sizes? It can indeed be a bit of a puzzle. Maybe you're wondering if a spacious California King will fit comfortably in your smaller room, or perhaps you're concerned about the cost.

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In this blog post, we're here to demystify the California King vs. Full mattress dilemma. We'll break down the differences between these two mattress sizes and help you make an informed choice that will finally let you enjoy a peaceful night's sleep.

california king vs full - detailed comparison guide

Key Takeaways:

  • California King size mattresses are longer and narrower than standard King mattresses. It measures 72 x 84 inches, providing extra space for tall sleepers, couples, and furry friends.
  • A Full mattress is a more compact option. It measures 54 X 75 inches, making it a great choice for small bedrooms or for individuals who sleep alone.
  • California King mattresses are more expensive than Full mattresses due to their larger dimensions and specialized manufacturing.
  • Finding accessories such as sheets, mattress protectors, and bedspreads that fit a California King mattress can be more challenging compared to Full mattresses, which have a more common size.
  • When deciding between these two mattress sizes, consider your room size, sleeping habits, budget, and personal preference.

What is a California King Size Mattress?

Let's start with the California King mattress. It's known for its luxurious size, offering ample room for those who like to stretch out while sleeping. The California King size bed dimensions are indeed impressive - It boasts a generous 72 inches in width and a whopping 84 inches in length. To put that into perspective, it's 4 inches narrower than a standard King bed (Eastern King bed) but adds an extra 4 inches in length.

california king size mattress dimensions

Pros of California King Mattress

  • Extra Space for Tall Sleepers

A Cal King mattress is 4 inches longer than a standard King mattress and measures 84 inches (7 feet). This extra length is perfect for tall individuals (6'2" or taller), as it allows them to stretch out comfortably without their feet hanging off the bed, ensuring a better night's sleep.

  • Great for Narrow Rooms

California King mattresses are designed to be longer and narrower than standard Kings. This makes them an excellent choice for bedrooms that are longer and narrower in shape, maximizing space and creating more room to move around the bed.

  • Ideal for Couples

These mattresses are wider than queen-sized ones, providing plenty of space for couples to share without feeling cramped. The added length also reduces the chance of disturbing your partner when you shift during the night, improving sleep quality for both of you.

  • Space for Your Furry Friend

If you have a furry friend like a dog or cat, a California King mattress offers extra space at the foot of the bed. This allows your pet to comfortably curl up or stretch out without taking over your sleeping area, creating a cozy and bonding experience.

Cons of California King Mattress

  • Higher Price Tag

One notable drawback of California King mattresses is their cost. They are typically more expensive than standard-sized mattresses. The larger dimensions and specialized manufacturing contribute to this higher price tag. While they offer added comfort and space, the initial investment can be a barrier for budget-conscious consumers.

  • Accessories are Difficult to Find

Finding accessories such as sheets, mattress protectors, and bedspreads that fit a California King mattress can be more challenging compared to standard-sized mattresses. The less common size means a more limited selection of linens and bedding in stores. This can require additional effort and potentially higher costs when shopping for these essential accessories.

  • Bulky Size

The generous dimensions of a California King mattress can be a disadvantage in smaller bedrooms. Its length and width can dominate the room, making it challenging to arrange furniture or leaving less space for other bedroom amenities. This bulkiness may not be suitable for bedrooms with limited floor space, potentially leading to a less aesthetically pleasing or less functional room layout.

  • Difficulty Moving and Maneuvering

While California King mattresses offer luxurious comfort, it's important to consider the practical challenges associated with their size and weight, especially when thinking about how to move a mattress of this magnitude. These inconveniences may require extra effort and planning when it comes to maintenance and transportation.

What is a Full Size Mattress?

On the other end of the spectrum is the Full mattress, also known as a double mattress. It's a more compact option compared to the California King. Full size bed dimensions measure 54 inches in width and 75 inches in length. These dimensions make it an excellent choice for smaller bedrooms, guest rooms, or for individuals who appreciate cozy sleeping quarters.

what is a full size mattress?

Pros of Full Mattress

  • Great for Small Spaces

Full-size mattresses work really well in bedrooms with limited space. They measure around 54 inches wide and 75 inches long, making them a smart choice for saving room. This leaves more space for other furniture or just gives your room a more open and less crowded feel, especially in smaller bedrooms or guest rooms.

  • Perfect for One Sleeper

Full-size mattresses are just right for folks who sleep alone. They provide plenty of space for one person to stretch out comfortably but without the extra width of bigger mattresses that you might not need when sleeping alone.

  • Easy to Find Bedding

One cool thing about full-size mattresses is that it's super easy to find bedding for them. They're a common size, so you can easily get sheets, blankets, and other bedding stuff in stores or online. This makes setting up your bed a breeze.

  • Saves Money

Full-size mattresses often cost less than larger ones, like Queen or King. You can still get a comfy bed without paying a premium price. This is great if you're outfitting several bedrooms and want to save money without sacrificing comfort.

Cons of Full Mattress

  • Not Great for Couples

Full-size mattresses aren't the best choice for couples because they're not wide enough. They're about 54 inches wide, and when two adults share the bed, it can feel crowded. Couples might have trouble sleeping comfortably, and if one person moves a lot, it can disturb the other.

  • Too Short for Tall Sleepers

If you're tall, a full-size mattress might be too short for you. They're usually about 75 inches long, which can be a problem if you're 6 feet or taller. Your feet might hang off the end, and you could feel uncomfortable, needing to adjust your position often during the night.

California King & Full - Mattress Size Comparison Chart

Parameters California King Full Size
Size Spacious & Luxurious Cozy & Comfortable
Length 84 inches 75 inches
Width 72 inches 54 inches
Surface Area 6048 sq inches 4050 sq inches
Average Price Range (USD) $1,500 - $2,500 $700 - $1400
Best for Tall Couples, Pet Parents Single Adults
Minimum Room Size 12 x 12 sq.ft 9 x 9 sq.ft
Other Names Western King Double

What to Consider Before Choosing Between a California King Bed and a Full Bed?

Now that you have a better understanding of the differences between Cal King and full, let's explore what factors you should take into account when deciding on the best mattress for your needs.

Room Size

One of the most critical considerations is the size of your bedroom.

A California King bed is undeniably spacious, measuring 72 inches in width and a generous 84 inches in length. However, it also demands more space due to its larger dimensions.

On the other hand, a Full bed is more space-efficient, measuring 54 inches in width and 75 inches in length. If you have a smaller bedroom, the Full bed might be a better fit, as it won't dominate the room, leaving more space for other furniture and creating a less crowded feel.

Budget

It's also essential to consider your budgetary constraints and how much you're willing to invest in your mattress when determining the best mattress for you. Full beds are typically more budget-friendly than California Kings.

Now, you might wonder, how much does a mattress cost? While a California King offers luxurious comfort, it can be a substantial investment. In contrast, a Full bed provides comfort without breaking the bank.

Bed Sharing

If you share your bed with a partner and have children or pets who like to join you during the night, the amount of space matters.

A California King is the best mattress for couples who desire ample room to spread out comfortably. It's also ideal for families who share their bed with kids or pets.

However, a Full bed might feel too snug if you need to accommodate multiple people or furry friends.

Bedding and Accessories

Practicality is another essential factor to consider. Think about the availability and cost of bedding and accessories.

Full-size bedding, including sheets, duvets, and mattress protectors, is more widely available and tends to be less expensive compared to California King-sized bedding.

If convenience and affordability in finding bedding are essential to you, a Full bed may be the better choice.

Personal Preferences

Ultimately, your personal comfort preferences should guide your decision. Consider whether you prefer the cozier feel of a Full bed or the luxurious spaciousness of a California King.

Your comfort and satisfaction with your mattress choice are paramount, as you'll spend a significant portion of your life sleeping on it.

If possible, test out both sizes to determine which one aligns better with your comfort preferences and ensures a restful night's sleep.

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Other Popular Mattress Sizes

In addition to Full Size and California King mattresses, there are several other popular mattress sizes available on the market to suit various preferences and needs. This includes:

Twin Size Mattress

twin bed

The Twin mattress measures 38 inches in width and 75 inches in length. This mattress size is an excellent choice for children's bedrooms, bunk beds, or small guest rooms. The compact size of twin size mattresses maximizes floor space while providing a comfortable sleep solution for single sleepers, especially kids or teenagers.

Twin XL Size Mattress

twin xl bed

Twin XL mattresses share the same width as a Twin but add an extra 5 inches in length, measuring 38 inches by 80 inches. This added length of the Twin XL mattress caters to taller individuals or teenagers in transition, ensuring they have more legroom without sacrificing space-saving advantages.

Queen Size Mattress

queen bed

The Queen mattress, measuring 60 inches in width and 80 inches in length, offers a versatile sleeping surface suitable for both couples and individuals. It strikes a balance between spaciousness and room size, fitting comfortably in most bedrooms while providing ample space for a restful night's sleep.

King Size Mattress

king bed

The King size mattress, also known as the Standard King, measures a generous 76 inches in width and 80 inches in length, and provides abundance of space. Thus, it is perfect not only for couples but also for families who want to gather together for a comfortable and restful night's sleep.

Conclusion

In the ongoing debate between the California King and Full mattress, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. Your decision should be a reflection of your specific room size, budgetary constraints, and personal preferences. Whether you find yourself leaning towards the spacious luxury of the California King or the more budget-friendly, space-efficient Full mattress, rest assured that a good night's sleep is well within your reach.

Don't rush your decision - Take the time to carefully consider all the factors we've discussed. Remember, you're not just choosing a mattress; you're selecting a piece of furniture that will significantly impact your daily life and well-being.

So, weigh the considerations, test out both options if possible, and make your mattress decision wisely. After all, a well-rested you is a happier and healthier you. Sweet dreams await!

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FAQs

King and California King - Are They Both the Same Size Mattress?

No, a California King mattress (also known as a Western King) is not the same as a standard King size mattress (also known as an Eastern King). When comparing King vs. California King, you'll notice that, although both are considered large sizes, they have distinct dimensions.

A standard King measures 76 X 80 inches, whereas a Cal King measures 72 X 84 inches. So, if you prioritize extra length and have a narrower room, the California King might be a better choice for you.

Can I Use Regular Full-Size Bedding on a Full Mattress?

Yes, you can use regular Full-size bedding and accessories on a Full mattress. Full-size bedding is specifically designed to fit Full mattresses perfectly. This includes fitted sheets, flat sheets, comforters, and duvet covers. You won't have any trouble finding a wide variety of bedding options tailored to the dimensions of a Full mattress.

What's the Main Advantage of a Cal King Mattress?

The primary advantage of a California King mattress is its extra length. This feature makes it an ideal choice for taller individuals who often find that their feet hang over the end of a regular King mattress. The California King's additional length ensures that even the tallest sleepers can enjoy a comfortable night's rest without their feet dangling off the bed.

Are Full Mattresses Suitable for Couples?

Full mattresses aren't the best choice for couples. They can work if you prefer a cozy and close sleeping arrangement, but generally, Full mattresses may not provide enough personal space for couples who desire more room to sleep comfortably. In such cases, it's often better to opt for a larger mattress size, like a Queen or King.

Which Mattress Size is the Most Budget-Friendly?

Full mattresses are generally more budget-friendly compared to California Kings. Since Full mattresses are smaller in size, they tend to be less expensive, both in terms of the initial purchase and ongoing bedding costs. This makes them an attractive choice for individuals or couples on a budget who still want a comfortable and accommodating mattress without breaking the bank.

Is a Double Mattress the Same as a Full Size Mattress?

Yes, a "double mattress" is the same as a "full-size mattress." These terms are used interchangeably to describe a mattress that measures approximately 54 inches in width and 75 inches in length.

How Big is a Cal King Size Mattress When Compared to a Full Size Mattress?

California King beds are notably larger when compared to full size beds.

The California King measures 72 inches in width and a generous 84 inches in length, which makes it one of the most spacious mattress options available. In contrast, a full size mattress is more compact, measuring 54 inches in width and 75 inches in length. This means that a California King is a substantial 18 inches wider and 9 inches longer than a full size mattress.

Do Two Twin XL Beds Make a Cal King Size Bed?

No, two twin XL mattresses placed side by side will create a bed that is 76 inches wide and 80 inches long, which is 4 inches wider and 4 inches shorter than a California King-size bed (72 inches wide and 84 inches long).

So, while two twin XL beds together can provide extra width compared to Cal King size mattresses, they won't match the length of a California King. This setup is often referred to as a "Split King," and it's a popular choice for couples who want the ability to adjust the firmness or position of their individual mattress halves while still having a shared bed frame.

Which is Better - a California King or Full Size Mattress?

Your decision between a California King and a Full Size mattress depends on your unique requirements. If you have the room and budget for it and value spaciousness, a California King can provide unparalleled comfort and luxury, especially for taller individuals and couples. However, if you're looking for a more budget-friendly option or have limited space, a Full Size mattress can offer comfort and coziness while accommodating smaller rooms and budgets

Related blog posts:

1. Mattress Sizes Chart and Bed Dimensions Guide

2. Kids Mattress Sizes

3. Twin vs. Twin XL Mattress

Twin vs. Twin XL Mattress

4. King vs. California King

5. Twin vs. Full vs. Queen Mattress

Twin vs. Full vs. Queen Mattress

Disclaimer: What is said in this article has been referenced from multiple sources and is intended only for educational and informational purposes. Please note that no content in this article is a substitute for professional advice from a qualified doctor or healthcare provider. Always consult an experienced doctor with any concerns you may have regarding a health condition or treatment, and never disregard any medical suggestions or delay in seeking treatment because of something you read here.

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