California king vs Standard King

Often we get asked what is the difference between California king and a standard king. With several different names it truly can be a confusing question to sort out, obviously you want the most sleeping space possible and the most bang for your buck. The answer is simple, unless you or your spouse is 6’4” then you probably don’t want or need a California king mattress set.

Standard King 76"x80"
A standard king size mattress also know as an Eastern king measures 76” wide by 80” long, it is the most common king size mattress and gives the most sleeping space for two people at 38" per person.

California King 72"x84"
A California king mattress also know as a Western king set takes 4” off of the side of a regular king and adds it to the overall length making it 72”wide by 84” long making the California king better suited for those who are taller in length but only providing 36" in width per person.

One of the biggest draw backs of a California king mattress is that most stores carry a better selection of standard king sheet sets than the California size. The flat sheet will fit both standard and California king mattress sets however the fitted sheet is specific to each mattress and is not interchangeable. Many California king owners choose to purchase their sheet sets online as it provides a better selection. Another major draw back to California kings is the lack of selection in stores, generally stores will have one or two models available and will require a special order to get any of the other mattress sizes in stock.