You want a big bed. You've earned it. After years of bumping elbows with your partner, kicking the dog off the foot of the bed, or waking up with a foot hanging off the edge, you're ready for the upgrade. King or California King. The big leagues.
But here's the question that stops a lot of Brantford folks in their tracks: Will it actually fit?
Not just in your bedroom, we're talking about fitting up the stairs, through the doorways, around that tight corner by the bathroom. Will the delivery team be able to get it into your house? Will you have room to walk around it once it's there? And what about sheets, can you even find California King bedding in Canada without selling a kidney?
At Mattress Miracle, we've been helping Brantford families navigate these exact questions since 1987. We've delivered thousands of king-sized mattresses to homes across the city, from the spacious new builds in the north end to the charming older homes in the downtown core with those narrow, winding staircases.
This guide isn't about fancy bed frames or interior design trends. This is about real-world dimensions and logistics. By the end, you'll know exactly which size fits your space, your body, and your life.
Quick Answer: Which Should You Choose?
| Choose Standard King (Eastern King) If: | Choose California King If: |
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Bottom line: King is wider (76" x 80"). California King is longer but narrower (72" x 84"). For all king variants with exact measurements, see our king size mattress dimensions guide. Most couples in Brantford are happier with a standard King.
Table of Contents
- Exact Dimensions: Side-by-Side Comparison
- Room Size Requirements: Minimum, Comfortable & Ideal
- Doorway, Hallway & Staircase Clearance
- Who Should Choose a Standard King?
- Who Should Choose a California King?
- Finding Sheets & Bedding in Canada
- Bed Frame & Foundation Differences
- Master Bedroom Layout Tips for Each Size
- Brantford Older Homes: Special Considerations
- Price Comparison: Mattress & Accessories
- Split King: The Adjustable Bed Option
- What If It Doesn't Fit? Returns & Exchanges
- Frequently Asked Questions
Exact Dimensions: The Numbers That Matter
Before we talk about room size and doorways, let's get crystal clear on what we're dealing with. These aren't just abstract numbers, they're the difference between a bed that fits your life and one that becomes a daily headache.
Standard King (Eastern King) Dimensions
- Width: 76 inches (6 feet 4 inches)
- Length: 80 inches (6 feet 8 inches)
- Total Surface Area: 6,080 square inches
California King Dimensions
- Width: 72 inches (6 feet)
- Length: 84 inches (7 feet)
- Total Surface Area: 6,048 square inches
What This Actually Means
Here's the thing most people miss: a standard King has more total sleeping surface, 32 square inches more, to be exact. The California King trades width for length. It's not a bigger bed overall; it's a differently shaped bed.
Think of it like this:
- Standard King = A wide rectangle (like a parking space)
- California King = A narrower rectangle (like a bowling lane)
For couples, that extra 4 inches of width on a standard King means each person gets 38 inches of personal space, the equivalent of a twin XL mattress each. On a California King, you're down to 36 inches each. That might not sound like much, but when your partner is a starfish sleeper, those 4 inches are the difference between sweet dreams and a shove in the ribs at 2 AM.
But if you're 6'4" and your feet have been hanging off the end of beds your entire life, those extra 4 inches of length on a California King might be worth sacrificing some width. No more cold toes.
Room Size Requirements: Will It Swallow Your Bedroom?
This is where the rubber meets the road. You've got the bedroom measurements, and you need to know if a king-sized bed will turn your sanctuary into a wrestling ring or leave you enough room to actually live.
Minimum Room Size (Technically Possible, But Tight)
- For Standard King: 10 feet x 10 feet (100 sq ft)
- For California King: 10 feet x 11 feet (110 sq ft)
Can you fit a king bed in a 10x10 room? Yes. Should you? That's another question. At minimum dimensions, you'll have about 2 feet of clearance on each side of the bed. That's enough to walk sideways and maybe squeeze in a narrow nightstand on one side. It's functional, but cozy.
Comfortable Room Size (What We Recommend)
- For Standard King: 12 feet x 12 feet (144 sq ft) or larger
- For California King: 12 feet x 13 feet (156 sq ft) or larger
This is the sweet spot for most Brantford homes. With a 12x12 room, you'll have roughly 3 feet of clearance on each side, enough for standard nightstands, room to walk comfortably, and space to make the bed without doing yoga.
Ideal Room Size (The Dream Setup)
- For Standard King: 14 feet x 14 feet (196 sq ft) or larger
- For California King: 14 feet x 15 feet (210 sq ft) or larger
At this size, you're living large. There's room for a king bed, two substantial nightstands, a dresser, maybe even a reading chair. You can walk around the bed normally. The room feels luxurious, not cramped.
Measuring Your Room: The Brantford Method
Here's how to measure like a pro:
- Measure wall-to-wall in both directions. Don't assume the room is perfectly square, older Brantford homes rarely are.
- Account for baseboards and trim. That fancy crown molding eats up an inch or two.
- Mark where doors swing. A door that opens into the room changes everything.
- Check for radiators, vents, and windows. These affect furniture placement more than you'd think.
- Walk the perimeter. Literally pace it out. Can you comfortably move around?
Pro tip from 38 years of Brantford deliveries: Take a bedsheet or some painter's tape and mark out the bed dimensions on your floor. Live with it for a day. Walk around it in the dark. See how it feels. Better to discover it's too tight before you've got a delivery truck in your driveway.
Bedroom Shape Matters
A long, narrow bedroom (say, 10 feet x 14 feet) might actually work better with a California King. The length follows the room's natural shape. Conversely, a wide, squarish room (12 feet x 12 feet) is practically begging for a standard King.
We've seen couples squeeze a standard King into a 9-foot-wide room. It works, but you better not be claustrophobic. And forget about that oversized dresser you've been eyeing.
Doorway, Hallway & Staircase Clearance: The Delivery Day Reality Check
Picture this: It's delivery day. The truck pulls up. Two strong folks haul your beautiful new king mattress up the walkway, through the front door, and then... it stops. Won't go around the corner. Won't fit up the stairs. Won't clear the low ceiling in the hallway.
This isn't a nightmare scenario, it's something we see a few times a year at Mattress Miracle. And it's completely avoidable if you measure first.
The Critical Measurements
Here's what you need to check before you order:
Doorway Width
- Minimum needed: 30 inches (mattress on its side)
- Comfortable: 32+ inches
- Ideal: 36+ inches
Modern interior doors are typically 30-32 inches wide. Older Brantford homes? We've seen 28-inch doors, especially in houses built before the 1950s. A king mattress is about 76 inches wide and 10 inches thick (when compressed for delivery). Standing on its side, it needs that 30-inch clearance minimum.
Hallway Width
- Minimum needed: 36 inches at narrowest point
- Comfortable: 40+ inches
Hallways are where things get tricky. A straight shot? No problem. But when you need to turn a corner, especially a tight one between rooms, that's where mattresses get stuck. A king mattress needs about 8 feet of straight clearance to make a 90-degree turn comfortably.
Staircase Considerations
- Stair width: Minimum 36 inches between walls
- Ceiling height above stairs: 7 feet minimum at lowest point
- Landing space: 4 feet x 4 feet minimum for turning
Stairs are the make-or-break factor for many Brantford homes, especially the beautiful older character homes in areas like Shellard Lane or near Glenhyrst Art Gallery. Those narrow, winding staircases were built for people, not king-sized furniture.
The "Can We Get It Upstairs?" Checklist
- Measure your staircase width. Not just at the bottom, check the middle and top landings too.
- Check ceiling height. Low ceilings mean you can't tilt the mattress as much to navigate turns.
- Look for obstructions. That decorative newel post? The low-hanging light fixture? They matter.
- Count the turns. Each corner is an opportunity for things to go wrong.
- Consider windows. Sometimes, the delivery team can hoist a mattress through a large second-story window if stairs won't work. It's not elegant, but it works.
Box Spring vs. Foundation: It Makes a Difference
Here's something people forget: box springs don't bend. A traditional box spring is a rigid wooden frame. If it won't fit up your stairs, you're out of luck.
Modern foundations or platform beds are often the better choice for tight spaces:
- Split box springs: Two twin-sized pieces that fit together. Most king mattresses come with these by default now.
- Low-profile foundations: Thinner, easier to maneuver.
- Platform beds: No box spring needed. Often assemble in the room.
- Adjustable bases: Usually split and hinge for easier transport.
At Mattress Miracle, we always ask about your staircase situation before recommending a foundation type. A $200 split foundation can save you a world of headache on delivery day.
When It Won't Fit: Your Options
If your measurements say "no way," you still have options:
- Rolled mattresses (bed-in-a-box): Compressed and rolled, these can fit through spaces a traditional mattress can't. Many quality brands offer king sizes in this format now.
- Window delivery: If you've got a large second-story window and a cooperative delivery team, hoisting is possible.
- Two twin XL mattresses: A split King setup uses two 38" x 80" mattresses. Much easier to maneuver.
- Queen size: Sometimes, the right answer is accepting that a Queen (60" x 80") is the practical maximum for your space.
Who Should Choose a Standard King?
After 38 years of helping Brantford families choose mattresses, we've got a pretty good sense of who ends up happiest with a standard King. Here's the profile:
Couples Who Value Personal Space
That extra 4 inches of width might not sound like much, but when you're sharing a bed night after night, it's the difference between peaceful coexistence and World War III over blanket hogging. A standard King gives each partner 38 inches of width, essentially the same as sleeping on a twin XL mattress.
If you or your partner is an active sleeper, a light sleeper, or someone who just needs their space, the standard King is your friend.
Families with Bed Invaders
Let's be honest, kids and pets don't respect boundaries. At 3 AM, when your 6-year-old has a nightmare or your golden retriever decides your bed is their bed, that extra width is a lifesaver. You can accommodate a small human or medium-sized dog at the foot or side without completely sacrificing your own space.
People Who Like Easy Shopping
Standard King is the most popular size in North America. Walk into any store in Brantford, Hamilton, or Kitchener-Waterloo, and you'll find King sheets, comforters, and mattress protectors galore. California King? That's a specialty order.
Shorter Sleepers
If you're under 6 feet tall, the 80-inch length of a standard King is plenty. You've got 8-10 inches of extra space at the foot of the bed. Why pay more and hunt harder for California King bedding when you don't need the extra length?
People with Wide Bedrooms
Most bedrooms are wider than they are long. A standard King follows that natural geometry. It fills the space better, leaves more room at the foot of the bed for a bench or trunk, and just looks more balanced in a typical rectangular room.
Couples with Different Sleep Schedules
When one partner is a night owl and the other is an early bird, that extra width means less disruption. You can get in and out of bed without shaking the whole mattress. You can read with a book light without the glow directly in your partner's face. Space is harmony.
Bottom line: Unless you're very tall or have a very specific room shape, the standard King is probably your best bet. It's more versatile, more available, and offers more total sleeping space.
Who Should Choose a California King?
California Kings aren't just for Californians (though they were originally developed for Hollywood mansions with extra-long bedrooms). There's a specific type of sleeper who genuinely benefits from the Cal King's unique dimensions.
Tall Sleepers (6'2" and Above)
This is the big one. If you're 6'2" or taller, a standard King might leave your feet dangling. And even if they technically fit, sleeping with your toes pressed against the footboard or hanging off the edge isn't comfortable.
A California King gives you those extra 4 inches of length. For a 6'4" sleeper, that means your feet are fully on the mattress with a few inches to spare. No more cold toes. No more weird diagonal sleeping positions.
People Who Sleep with Their Arms Above Their Head
Some people naturally sleep with their arms extended above their head. If you're one of them, you need those extra inches at the top too. A California King accommodates this sleeping style without your hands hitting the headboard.
Narrow, Long Bedrooms
If your bedroom is distinctly rectangular, say, 10 feet x 14 feet, a California King follows the room's natural lines better. It leaves more usable space on the sides while filling the length nicely. It's a better use of space in certain layouts.
Solo Sleepers Who Spread Out
If you sleep alone and like to sprawl diagonally, starfish-style, or just enjoy the luxury of space in every direction, a California King is decadent. It's the longest standard mattress you can buy, and that length is genuinely enjoyable if you've got the room to yourself.
People Who Want Something Different
Let's be honest, part of the appeal of a California King is that not everyone has one. It's a statement. It says you've thought about your sleep and your space. If you like having something a bit unique, the Cal King delivers.
The Trade-Offs You Accept
Choosing a California King means accepting some compromises:
- Harder to find bedding (more on this below)
- Less width for couples, you're down to 36 inches each
- Often more expensive for both the mattress and accessories
- Fewer frame and foundation options
But for the right person, especially tall folks, these trade-offs are worth it. Sleeping with your feet on the mattress instead of hanging off the end? That's life-changing for tall people.
Finding Sheets & Bedding in Canada: The Real Talk
Here's where the rubber meets the road for a lot of people. You can find a California King mattress. You can get it delivered. But can you find sheets that fit?
Standard King Bedding in Canada
Easy. Walk into any Walmart, Canadian Tire, Sleep Country, or HomeSense in Brantford or the surrounding area, and you'll find King sheets. Dozens of options. Cotton, bamboo, flannel, microfiber, all readily available.
Online? Amazon.ca, Bed Bath & Beyond, The Bay, they all stock King bedding with fast shipping across Canada.
A standard fitted King sheet is 78" x 80" with deep pockets to accommodate mattresses up to 16 inches thick.
California King Bedding: The Hunt
California King is harder, no doubt about it. But it's not impossible.
In-store options (Brantford area):
- Sleep Country: Usually has a few Cal King sets in stock
- The Brick: Limited selection, but they can order
- HomeSense/Marshalls: Hit or miss, but sometimes you score
- Costco: Occasionally carries Cal King in their seasonal rotations
Online options:
- Amazon.ca: Best selection, reasonable prices
- Wayfair.ca: Good variety, frequent sales
- Canadian Tire online: Growing selection
- Specialty sites: Silk & Snow, Endy, Casper all offer Cal King
A California King fitted sheet is 72" x 84". That's the key number, don't try to squeeze a King sheet onto a Cal King mattress. It won't fit properly and you'll be fighting with it every time you make the bed.
Comforters and Duvets
Here's some good news: many King comforters and duvets are actually oversized and work fine on California Kings. A standard King comforter is typically 102" x 86" or larger, which provides adequate coverage for a Cal King.
However, if you want a perfect fit, look for:
- "California King" specific sizing (usually 104" x 100")
- Oversized King comforters marketed as "generous" or "extra large"
- European sizes (Super King often works)
Mattress Protectors
Don't skip this. A quality mattress protector extends the life of your investment significantly. California King protectors are available online, though in-store options are limited. Expect to pay $20-40 more than a standard King protector.
The Cost Difference
Here's what you can expect to pay for bedding in Canada (approximate ranges):
| Item | Standard King | California King | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Sheet Set | $40 - $80 | $60 - $100 | +30-50% |
| Mid-Range Sheet Set | $100 - $200 | $130 - $250 | +25-40% |
| Premium/Luxury Sheets | $250 - $500+ | $300 - $600+ | +20-30% |
| Comforter/Duvet | $100 - $300 | $120 - $350 | +15-25% |
| Mattress Protector | $50 - $120 | $70 - $150 | +20-35% |
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The premium isn't huge, but it's real. Over the lifetime of a mattress, say, 8-10 years of buying new sheets every few years, it adds up.
Pro Tips from the Shop Floor
- Buy two sets of sheets when you get the mattress. You'll be glad you did when you can't find Cal King sheets on short notice.
- Measure your mattress depth. Modern mattresses are thick, 12 to 16 inches is common. Make sure your fitted sheet has deep enough pockets.
- Consider universal fit comforters. Many "King/Cal King" comforters work for both.
- Shop sales. Black Friday, Boxing Day, and end-of-season clearances are your friends for Cal King bedding.
Bed Frame & Foundation Differences
The mattress is only half the equation. Your bed frame or foundation needs to fit too, and not all frames work with both sizes.
Standard King Frames
Most King frames accommodate both 76" x 80" (standard King) and 78" x 80" (slight variation some brands use). They're widely available and come in every style imaginable:
- Platform beds (no box spring needed)
- Traditional metal frames with headboard brackets
- Adjustable power bases
- Upholstered frames with storage
Prices in Canada range from $200 for a basic metal frame to $2,000+ for premium upholstered or storage platforms.
California King Frames
California King frames are less common but available. The key specs:
- Platform beds: Must specifically be Cal King or "universal King" (adjustable)
- Adjustable bases: Usually come in split Cal King (two 36" x 84" pieces)
- Traditional frames: Fewer style options, often special order
Expect to pay a 15-25% premium for California King frames, and you may need to order rather than buy off the floor.
The Split Option
Both King and California King come in "split" versions:
- Split King: Two 38" x 80" pieces
- Split Cal King: Two 36" x 84" pieces
Split versions are designed for adjustable beds where each partner can raise or lower their head and feet independently. They're also easier to move and fit through tight spaces.
But splits have downsides:
- You'll feel the gap between mattresses
- Special "split" sheets are required (two fitted sheets, one flat)
- The seam can be annoying for cuddling or... other activities
Foundation Height Considerations
Your foundation or box spring adds height. In a room with lower ceilings, a 9-inch box spring plus a 14-inch mattress puts you pretty high up. Consider:
- Low-profile foundations (4-5 inches)
- Platform beds (no additional height)
- Floor mattresses (trendy, but hard to get out of)
The total height of your sleep surface affects how the room feels. In an 8-foot ceiling room, a tall bed can feel oppressive. In a 9-foot ceiling room, it's luxurious.
Headboards and Footboards
If you're buying a headboard/footboard set, make absolutely sure it's compatible with your mattress size. A standard King headboard on a California King mattress leaves awkward gaps. Many modern sets are adjustable, but older or antique pieces are not.
At Mattress Miracle, we always verify frame compatibility before finalizing a sale. We've seen too many "but I thought it would fit" moments.
Master Bedroom Layout Tips for Each Size
Once you've got the mattress and frame sorted, how do you actually arrange the room? Here's how to make the most of your space, whether you've got a standard King or California King.
Standard King Layout Tips
The Symmetrical Setup (Most Popular)
Place the bed centered on the longest wall. Nightstands on both sides. This works in most 12x12 or larger rooms and gives you that magazine-spread look.
The Corner Setup (For Smaller Rooms)
Push the bed into a corner. You lose the ability to get out on one side, but you gain floor space. Great for single sleepers or when the room is tight.
The Focal Point Setup
If you've got a great view or a fireplace, position the bed to face it. A King fills the visual space nicely without overwhelming the room.
California King Layout Tips
The Long Wall Setup
California Kings demand the long wall. Their 84-inch length needs the room's longest dimension to look balanced. In a 10x14 room, the Cal King goes on the 14-foot wall.
The End-of-Room Setup
In a long, narrow room, position the Cal King so you're looking down the length of the room when lying in bed. It emphasizes the space.
The Minimal Nightstand Approach
With less width, you might need narrower nightstands. Wall-mounted shelves or small pedestal tables work better than chunky dressers used as nightstands.
Clearance Guidelines (The 3-Foot Rule)
Whatever size you choose, maintain these clearances for comfort:
- 3 feet minimum on at least one side (the side you get out of)
- 2 feet minimum on the other side
- 3 feet minimum at the foot of the bed (to walk around)
- Door swing clearance: Make sure the bedroom door can fully open
Traffic Flow Considerations
Think about how you move through the room:
- From door to closet
- From bed to bathroom
- From bed to window (for morning light/night air)
A well-placed king bed shouldn't force you to zigzag around furniture. The path should feel natural.
Other Furniture Placement
With a king bed in the room, you've got to be strategic about other pieces:
- Dresser: Usually works best on the wall opposite the bed or adjacent to it. A long, low dresser often fits better than a tall chest.
- Reading chair: A corner near a window is ideal. Make sure you have room to recline.
- TV: Wall-mounted saves floor space. Make sure viewing angle works from the bed.
- Bench or trunk: At the foot of the bed is classic, but only if you have the clearance.
Brantford-specific tip: Many older homes have radiators under windows. This affects where you can place the bed and other furniture. Measure the radiator projection from the wall before planning your layout.
Brantford Older Homes: Special Considerations
Brantford has character. We've got homes dating back to the 1800s, beautiful Victorian and Edwardian houses with gorgeous details, and narrow doorways, steep stairs, and quirky layouts that challenge modern furniture delivery.
The "Brantford Staircase" Challenge
If you live in one of the older neighborhoods, near downtown, around Glenhyrst, or in the West Brant historic areas, you've probably got:
- Staircases that turn sharply at a landing
- Doorways under 30 inches wide
- Low ceiling clearances on stairs
- Narrow hallways between rooms
We've delivered to hundreds of these homes. Here's what we've learned:
Measure the Historic Way
In older homes, walls aren't always straight and doorways aren't always standard. Don't trust the blueprints, they may have been modified over the decades. Measure the actual space:
- The narrowest point of every doorway
- The head clearance at the staircase turn
- The width of the staircase at its narrowest
- The landing space at the top of the stairs
The Window Delivery Option
For homes where stairs are impossible, we've successfully hoisted mattresses through second-story windows. It requires:
- A window large enough (usually 4 feet wide minimum)
- Clear access from outside (no trees, wires, or obstructions)
- A sturdy ladder or lift
- A delivery team experienced with this approach
At Mattress Miracle, we've done this dozens of times. It's not our first choice, but it works when needed.
The Split King Solution for Heritage Homes
If your home's layout simply won't accommodate a solid king mattress, a split King (two twin XLs) might be your answer. Each piece is 38" x 80", much easier to maneuver than a 76" wide solid piece.
You can either:
- Use them on an adjustable base for independent control
- Push them together on a standard king frame with a bed bridge to eliminate the gap
Protecting Your Home During Delivery
Older homes have delicate details, original trim, plaster walls, narrow banisters. A good delivery team will:
- Pad door frames and corners
- Use moving blankets on railings
- Move slowly and communicate
- Have a plan before starting
We take pride in treating Brantford's historic homes with respect. We've been delivering to them for 38 years, and we know how to get your mattress inside without damaging your property.
When to Consider a Queen Instead
Sometimes, the honest answer is that a king bed, even a split one, just won't work in your space. A Queen mattress (60" x 80") fits through almost any doorway and up any staircase. It's still plenty big for most couples.
We've talked many customers down from a King to a Queen after seeing their space. Nobody's ever complained about having a bed that actually fits.
Price Differences: What to Budget in Canada
Let's talk money. King and California King mattresses are premium sizes, and they come with premium price tags. Here's what you can expect to pay in the Canadian market.
Mattress Prices
| Quality Level | Standard King | California King |
|---|---|---|
| Budget (Basic Innerspring) | $600 - $900 | $700 - $1,000 |
| Mid-Range (Quality Hybrid/Memory Foam) | $1,000 - $2,000 | $1,100 - $2,200 |
| Premium (Luxury Materials) | $2,000 - $4,000+ | $2,200 - $4,500+ |
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California Kings typically cost 10-15% more than standard Kings. The difference isn't huge at budget levels but becomes significant in premium tiers.
Frame and Foundation Costs
- Basic metal frame (King): $100 - $200
- Basic metal frame (Cal King): $120 - $250 (fewer options)
- Platform bed (King): $400 - $1,500
- Platform bed (Cal King): $500 - $1,800 (limited selection)
- Adjustable base (Split King): $1,200 - $3,000
- Adjustable base (Split Cal King): $1,400 - $3,500
Bedding Costs (Over 10 Years)
Assuming you replace sheets every 2-3 years and buy quality:
- Standard King: $150 - $300 per set, readily available
- California King: $180 - $400 per set, limited availability
Over a 10-year mattress life, you might spend $500-$1,000 more on bedding for a California King.
Total Cost of Ownership (10-Year Estimate)
| Component | Standard King | California King |
|---|---|---|
| Mattress (mid-range) | $1,500 | $1,700 |
| Frame/Foundation | $600 | $700 |
| Bedding (10 years) | $800 | $1,200 |
| Protectors (2) | $200 | $280 |
| Total | $3,100 | $3,880 |
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The California King premium over 10 years is roughly $700-$800. Not enormous, but real money.
Financing Options in Brantford
At Mattress Miracle, we offer financing options to make the investment manageable:
- 12-month no-interest financing on approved credit
- Split payment plans
- Package deals (mattress + frame + protector at a discount)
A good mattress is an investment in your health. Don't let sticker shock push you toward a size that doesn't fit your needs.
Split King: The Adjustable Bed Option
We mentioned split Kings earlier, but they deserve their own section because they solve so many problems for Brantford homeowners.
What Is a Split King?
A split King uses two separate mattresses, each 38" x 80" (twin XL size), placed side by side on a single king-sized frame. The result looks like one bed but functions as two.
Why Choose a Split King?
Easier Delivery
Two 38-inch mattresses fit through doorways and up stairs that a 76-inch solid mattress won't. For Brantford's older homes, this alone can be the deciding factor.
Adjustable Comfort
On an adjustable base, each partner controls their own side. One person can sit up reading while the other lies flat sleeping. One can elevate their feet for circulation while the other stays level. It's the ultimate in sleep customization.
Different Firmness Preferences
If you like firm and your partner likes plush, a split King lets each of you have exactly what you want. No compromise necessary.
The Downsides of Split King
The Middle Gap
There's a seam where the two mattresses meet. Some couples find this annoying for cuddling or intimacy. Solutions exist, mattress toppers, bed bridges, or zip-together mattresses, but it's a consideration.
Sheet Complexity
You need two fitted sheets (one for each mattress) and one flat sheet or comforter. Not difficult, but different from a single King setup.
Cost
Split Kings with adjustable bases are expensive, $2,500 to $5,000 for the complete setup. But for couples with different needs, it's often worth it.
Is Split King Right for You?
Consider a split King if:
- Your staircase/doorways can't accommodate a solid king
- You and your partner have very different sleep preferences
- One of you has health needs (acid reflux, sleep apnea, circulation issues) that benefit from elevation
- You want the option to adjust but still sleep together
At Mattress Miracle, we can show you split King setups in our showroom and help you decide if the benefits outweigh the drawbacks for your situation.
What If It Doesn't Fit? Returns & Exchanges
Here's a scenario we want to help you avoid: You buy a king bed, get it delivered, and realize it's too big for your room. Or it won't fit up the stairs. Or your partner hates it. Now what?
Mattress Miracle's Return Policy
We stand behind what we sell. Here's how our returns work:
Before Delivery:
If you change your mind before the mattress leaves our warehouse, you can cancel or switch sizes with no penalty. This is the best time to make changes.
After Delivery (Comfort Guarantee):
We offer a 100-night comfort guarantee. Sleep on the mattress for at least 30 nights (it takes time to adjust), and if you're not satisfied, you can exchange it for a different model or size.
Size Exchanges:
If the mattress doesn't fit your room or stairs, we'll work with you to find a solution, whether that's exchanging for a smaller size, arranging a split configuration, or processing a return.
Preventing Return Hassles
The best return is the one you don't need to make. Here's how to avoid buyer's remorse:
- Measure twice. Your room, doorways, stairs, everything. Write it down.
- Mark it out. Use tape on the floor to visualize the bed in your space.
- Walk the delivery path. Go through the motions. Can the mattress make every turn?
- Consider your future. Are you moving soon? Will a king work in your next home?
- Talk to us. We've delivered to thousands of Brantford homes. We can tell you if your plan is realistic.
Special Orders and California Kings
California King mattresses are sometimes special order items. If you're considering a Cal King, ask about:
- Lead times for delivery
- Restocking fees if you need to return
- Whether floor models are available to test
We want you to love your mattress for the next decade. Taking time to get the right size from the start is worth it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a California King bigger than a regular King?
No. A California King is longer (84" vs 80") but narrower (72" vs 76"). A standard King actually has slightly more total surface area (6,080 square inches vs 6,048). The California King is better for tall people; the standard King is better for couples who want maximum width.
Will a King mattress fit up my stairs?
It depends on your staircase. You need at least 30 inches of width, 7 feet of head clearance, and enough landing space to turn. Many older Brantford homes have stairs that won't accommodate a solid king mattress. In these cases, a split King or Queen might be better options. When in doubt, measure, or bring us photos and we'll advise.
Can I use King sheets on a California King bed?
No. King sheets are 76" x 80". California King sheets are 72" x 84". King sheets won't fit a Cal King mattress properly. You'll need to buy California King-specific bedding, which is less common and more expensive in Canada.
What size room do I need for a King bed?
Minimum 10x10 feet, but that's tight. Comfortable is 12x12 feet or larger. Ideal is 14x14 feet. The key is having at least 2-3 feet of clearance on all sides for walking, nightstands, and making the bed.
Is a Split King the same size as a regular King?
Yes. Two twin XL mattresses (38" x 80" each) placed side by side equal a standard King (76" x 80"). Split Kings are popular for adjustable beds and for homes where a solid king mattress won't fit through doorways or stairs.
Do you deliver King mattresses to Brantford homes with narrow stairs?
Yes, we deliver throughout Brantford and the surrounding area, including older homes with challenging layouts. We can assess your situation beforehand, recommend split options if needed, and in some cases, arrange window delivery if stairs won't work. We've been navigating Brantford's homes since 1987, we know the challenges and how to solve them.
Ready to Find Your Perfect Fit?
Choosing between a King and California King isn't just about dimensions, it's about how you live, how you sleep, and how your home works.
At Mattress Miracle, we've been helping Brantford families find their perfect sleep setup since 1987. We know the local homes, the delivery challenges, and what actually works in real life, not just on paper.
Stop by our store at 441 1/2 West Street in Brantford, give us a call at 519-770-0001, or browse our selection online. Bring your room measurements, photos of your stairs if you're concerned, and a list of your sleep needs. We'll help you figure out whether a King, California King, or something else entirely is right for you.
Sleep is too important to leave to guesswork. Let's get it right together.
, The Mattress Miracle Team, Brantford's sleep experts since 1987
Visit Our Brantford Showroom
Try before you buy. Our sleep experts will help you find the perfect match for your needs and budget.
Mattress Miracle
441 1/2 West Street, Brantford, ON N3R 3V9
Phone: (519) 770-0001
Hours: Mon–Wed 10–6 | Thu–Fri 10–7 | Sat 10–5 | Sun 12–4
Sources
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- Verhaert V, Haex B, De Wilde T, et al. Ergonomics in bed design: the effect of spinal alignment on sleep parameters. Ergonomics. 2011;54(2):169-178. DOI: 10.1080/00140139.2010.538725
- Okamoto-Mizuno K, Mizuno K. Effects of thermal environment on sleep and circadian rhythm. J Physiol Anthropol. 2012;31(1):14. DOI: 10.1186/1880-6805-31-14
- Cary D, Briffa K, McKenna L. Identifying relationships between sleep posture and non-specific spinal symptoms in adults: A scoping review. BMJ Open. 2019;9(6):e027633. DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-027633