Is An Alaskan King Bed Right For Your Bedroom? An In-Depth Look
Finding the perfect bed for your bedroom is key for ensuring a good night's sleep. If you're looking for an exceptionally spacious and luxurious mattress, an Alaskan king bed may be right for you. But with massive dimensions of 108 inches by 108 inches, this oversized bed also requires careful consideration before purchase.
Dimensions & Size
First, it's important to understand just how massive an Alaskan king mattress is. At 108 inches wide by 108 inches long, it dwarfs a standard king (76 inches by 80 inches) and even a California king (72 inches by 84 inches). Here's a visual of how it stacks up:
Bed Size | Dimensions |
Standard King | 76" x 80" |
California King | 72" x 84" |
Alaskan King | 108" x 108" |
As you can see, the Alaskan vastly outpaces other king sizes. This translates to over 100 square feet of sleeping space - more than double a standard king! However, it does require an exceptionally large master bedroom to accommodate it. Smaller rooms will quickly feel cramped and crowded once the bed is in place. Carefully measure to ensure your space can comfortably fit the bed's footprint.
Pros of an Alaskan King Bed
Spaciousness & Comfort
The abundant real estate of an Alaskan king mattress allows for unmatched comfort and personal space. Starfish sleepers can fully spread out without hanging off the edges. Couples can sprawl out without bumping into one another. The expansive surface area provides plenty of room to lounge comfortably when reading, watching TV, or just relaxing.
For couples with vastly different sleep habits or schedules, the extra room to spread out can also minimize sleep disruptions. One partner tossing and turning is less likely to impact the other's rest when there's ample buffer space in between.
Co-sleeping Capacity
Thanks to its substantial square footage, an Alaskan King can comfortably accommodate partners, children, pets or other family members who share the same sleeping space. Each individual can stake out their own territory without encroaching on others. The bed provides plenty of wiggle room for kids who migrate and shift throughout the night.
For multi-generational families or homes with temporary guests, the Alaskan king creates a welcoming sleeping area with enough room for multiple people. No more bedtime struggles over cramped quarters.
Durability & Support
Beds of this magnitude require reinforced construction and sturdy materials to maintain their shape and structure over time. High-end brands use quality lumber, foams, and fabrics. The box spring and mattress foundation are specially designed for maximum durability and structural integrity.
With proper construction, the Alaskan king can comfortably bear the load of heavier individuals and multiples sleepers without sagging or softening like lower quality beds. This ensures excellent support for years to come.
Health Benefits
The indulgent spaciousness of an Alaskan king size bed promotes better quality sleep in several ways. The ample personal space allows you to stretch out fully and change positions without affecting your partner. The comfortable surface cushions pressure points and properly aligns the spine.
By reducing sleep disturbances and disruptions, the Alaskan king helps you achieve deeper, more restorative rest. For couples with vastly different sleep schedules or habits, the extra room to spread out prevents one partner's movements from waking the other.
Cons of an Alaskan King Bed
Cost
Due to their substantial size and luxury status, Alaskan king size beds carry a hefty price tag. Expect to invest several thousand dollars for a quality mattress, box spring, and bed frame. Specialty sheets sized to fit the bed's dimensions are also more costly than standard sizes.
Space Requirements
This mammoth mattress commands a lot of real estate. Smaller bedrooms will quickly feel cramped and dominated by the bed's footprint. Make sure to measure the room's dimensions and experiment with layouts before finalizing your purchase.
Logistics
Maneuvering such an oversized mattress requires planning and care. Door frames should have at least 6 inches of clearance on all sides to accommodate moving the bed into position. Hallways and stairs must accommodate the width as well. Many opt to have professional movers manage delivery and setup.
Who Is It Ideal For?
Due to its magnified size and luxury status, an Alaskan king bed truly caters to those craving the ultimate indulgence in their sleeping space. Here are the profiles best suited for this over-the-top mattress:
- Couples wanting personal space: The extra room suits those who prioritize spreading out and buffer zones.
- Families & co-sleepers: Accommodates partners, kids, pets thanks to ample space.
- Seekers of luxury: Serious comfort-seekers who want high-end furnishings.
- Those with spacious master suites: Large, open bedrooms that can easily fit the bed's footprint.
Comparison to Other Oversized Beds
California King
California king beds offer more length than a standard king, but less width at 72 inches across. The California King's slimmer profile can better fit in long, narrow bedrooms. However, the total surface area is significantly less than an Alaskan King. Shoppers must decide if greater width or length is more essential.
Other Large Mattress Sizes
Beyond California kings, other specialty oversize mattresses include the Wyoming King (84" x 84"), Family King (88" x 88"), and Texas King (80" x 98"). While all substantially sized, none match the Alaskan King's expansive square footage and width. Again, available bedroom space and priorities will dictate which oversize bed works best.
Buying Considerations
Cost
Shoppers must account for the mattress, bed frame, and bedding which will all cost more for an Alaskan King size. Be sure to budget accordingly, and take advantage of sales, discounts, and financing options if needed. The investment is worthwhile for serious comfort-seekers.
Measurement
Carefully measure your bedroom's dimensions before purchase. Account for other furniture like nightstands and dressers. Experiment with layouts using tape to outline the bed's footprint. Confirm doorways are wide enough for access.
Logistics
Coordinate professional delivery and setup to maneuver the cumbersome mattress. Have a plan for getting it to the bedroom, around corners, and through doorways. Add reinforcement like floor joists or cross-braces to structurally support the heavy bed.
Alaskan king size beds provide an ultra-luxurious sleep experience thanks to their expansive dimensions and indulgent spaciousness. For couples, families, and bedrooms with ample square footage, the investment can yield remarkable comfort and personal space.
However, the giant footprint requires careful planning regarding bedroom space, logistics, and budget. Take measurements, outline the bed's footprint, and evaluate your must-haves to determine if the Alaskan King size is your perfect fit for maximum indulgence.