Diving Deep into King-Size Beds

The sheer size of a king-size bed makes it incredibly versatile. However, this size inevitably means you’ll be paying that little bit more for a king-size bed. You’ll also need a king-size mattress which is typically more expensive than a double bed mattress. This expense will be spread across the need for extra pillows, cushions, more oversized bedding, and comforters. As you’ll invest more into a king-size bed, making the right choice is essential. If you’re furnishing your first house or beginning a bedroom renovation, you may not know where to start when purchasing a king-size bed. This article discusses king-sized beds, the space you need, and the different types of King-size beds available.

The History of King-Sized Beds

Before we begin discussing how to make the right bed choice, let’s spend a little time on the history of king-sized beds. As with many other large and luxurious items, the king-size bed can trace its history back to America. 

There doesn’t seem to be a particular consensus on when the king-size bed was invented. Still, there is a general understanding that king-sized beds became popular in the 1950s. The story goes that in the 1940s, a furniture store pushed two single beds together to demonstrate how much space their customers would have if they purchased two beds instead of one. This unconventional sales technique was about selling bed linen rather than the actual beds. Eventually, it was suggested that they should build a larger bed and therefore, sell more linen at a higher price. Thus, the King-size bed as we know it today was born.

Pros of King-Sized Beds

Now you have a greater understanding of the history of the modern king-size bed, let’s talk a little bit about the pros.

Size

Let’s start with the obvious; a king-size bed is much bigger than the other bed varieties available. A king-size bed is perfect for two people.

Improved Sleeping

Studies have shown that couples who sleep in a larger bed tend to get a much better night’s sleep. In one survey, couples were asked would they pay for a larger bed before testing a large bed. Only 15% of the couples said they would pay for a larger bed. However, at the end of the trial, this percentage jumped to 50%. If this trial proves anything, it’s that once you try a large bed, there is no going back.

The average person will toss and turn anywhere from 60 to 70 times during the night. For couples, this inevitably means waking and disturbing their partner’s sleep. The added space of a king-size bed can help minimise these disturbances.

Cost-Effective

A king-size bed is larger than a typical bed and therefore more expensive than a double or even a queen-size bed. However, by comparing prices across retailers – which you can do on GetLocal – you can find king-size beds suitable for all budgets.

Wellness

A larger bed can be a contributing factor in helping to ease the symptoms of insomnia or restlessness.

For individuals with respiratory issues, there is some evidence to suggest a larger bed can make breathing easier.

The ability to stretch out in a king-size bed, in the long run, can be better for issues like back pain, hip pain and morning stiffness.

Is a King Sized Bed right for your bedroom?

When considering a king-size bed for your bedroom, the significant component that needs to be addressed is room size. We certainly may want the sleeping advantages of a king-size bed, but sometimes a room can be too small to accommodate the extra bed width. On average, a king-size bed is 150cm wide and 200cm long. This is a large surface area that needs to be covered. With this in mind, a room that will contain a king-size bed should be no smaller than 325cm X 360 cm.
At this minimum, you won’t have much space for other furniture within the room. A bedroom with a king-size bed needs to be minimalistic in its furnishings.
Suppose your room is slightly smaller than the above dimensions. In that case, we recommend considering a queen-size bed or a double bed.

Storage Considerations

As stated, due to the size of a king-size bed, a bedroom may not be able to accommodate a wardrobe or chest of drawers. If you have a smaller master bedroom, you may want to consider a king-size divan bed with base storage. A divan bed has drawers within the base, allowing you to store just about anything.

King Size Bed Styles

Those with larger bedrooms can consider more king-sized bed options. You may want to consider other bed styles to find something that suits their unique interior design considerations. Let’s discuss the pros and cons of various bed types.

Upholstered King Size Beds

Upholstered bed frames remain extremely popular in Ireland, and it’s no secret to see why. Upholstered beds offer the maximum level of comfort. These beds are also available in so many different styles and colours that it’s easy to find a bed that matches the interior design of even the most eclectic tastes.

Pros 

• Offers cushion support in both the bed frame and the headboard, upholstered beds are possibly the most comfortable bed option available. 
• A massive variety of fabric, colours and designs are available.

Cons 

• Upholstered beds will typically require a little extra maintenance. Dust can become lodged inside the fabric, and stains can be challenging to remove.
• Upholstered beds will inevitably begin to show the signs of wear and tear.

Canopy Bed Frame

Sometimes called a four-poster bed, canopy bed frames are becoming increasingly popular in Ireland.

When integrated with a minimalistic aesthetic, canopy beds can be luxurious and cosy.

Pros 

• Possibly one of the most stylish bed options available 
• By creating a sense of space, canopy beds create an inviting sleeping environment.

Cons 

• At the top of the canopy, dust tends to gather, meaning these beds will require regular dusting. 
• Due to their size and weight, they can be challenging to move, making them awkward to manoeuvre within a space. 
• Only rooms with a high ceiling are suitable for a canopy bed.

Iron Bed Frames

Nothing can beat the iron bed frames in terms of longevity and strength. Made from iron and blended metal, these classic beds are available in various styles.

Pros 

• An iron bed requires no maintenance. 
• While they may be strong and sturdy, they’re relatively easy to move around, especially compared to a wooden canopy bed. 
• Probably the most durable bed on the market.

Cons 

• There is a limited amount of styles for iron beds, so you may not always be able to find the right type of bed to suit your style.
• Iron beds are quite an expensive option.

Hopefully, this article has given you a working understanding of King-sized beds. Purchasing a king-size bed is always an investment, so it pays to take the time to do your research and compare and contrast furniture retailers. GetLocal allows you to compare furniture stores in your local area. Making it easy to ensure you get the right king-size bed at the best price. For all your king-size bed buys, shop local with GetLocal.