Your peaceful slumber is interrupted by the loud BEEPBEEPBEEP of your alarm clock. Half awake, you roll over to turn off the alarm only to realize – too late – that you’re lying on the edge of the bed. Gravity has a harsh way of reminding you of the importance of bed height.
Many factors go into bed height, including mattress height, box springs, and bed frame type. Depending on your preference, you might sleep closer to the ground or higher up as though on the clouds. Here are some things to consider for your ideal bed height.
Factors Affecting Ideal Bed Height
Three main factors affect bed height from the floor: comfort, age, and height.
Comfort
How comfortable are you sleeping a couple of feet off the floor? As a child, the top bunk may have been appealing, but as an adult, a high bed might be less comfortable.
Age
As we age, beds closer to the floor are easier to get into and out of. Falls from lower heights are also less risky.
Height
The average bed height today is around 25 inches. This height allows most people to sit on the side of the bed with their feet on the floor. Your mattress and bed base should be chosen to suit your body type.
Typical Bed Heights by Frame Type
Different bed frames produce different bed heights. Here’s a breakdown:
Platform Beds
Platform beds are typically 18 inches off the ground and usually don’t require a box spring. Adding a taller mattress, such as a pillow top mattress, can raise the bed height to three feet or more.
Panel Beds
Panel beds typically require a box spring. Even with a tall mattress, the height is moderate and not as elevated as platform or antique beds.
Antique Beds
Antique beds are often the tallest frames, around 36 inches without a mattress or box spring. With added support, the height can exceed four feet, so a step stool may be necessary.
Consider Bed Height When Shopping
Alongside comfort and cost, consider these questions when selecting a bed:
- Do I need a box spring? If so, should it be standard or low profile?
- Do I want a pillow top mattress knowing it increases bed height?
- Do I want an adjustable base that sits lower to the floor?
The Mattress Warehouse team is dedicated to helping you choose the right bed. Visit one of our stores today.
