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Last Updated September 20, 2024
Bed height - Why would it matter? After all, it doesn't seem to be an aspect that affects your sleep now, does it? While that would be the conclusion at first glance, bed height is actually an important consideration to be made while setting up your bed. It affects your bed mobility, sleeper safety, storage options, and, most of all - bedroom aesthetics.
But how? How does such a minor aspect like bed height affect such a plethora of bedroom scenarios? And what can you do to make sure you have a perfect height for your bed? These are exactly what we aim to uncover in this article! You'll be imparted with insightful knowledge on various bed heights, bed frames, mattress heights, and much more!
Key Takeaways:
Bed height calculates the total height of the bed from the floor to the top of your mattress. It adds the overall height of the bed frame, the box spring/mattress foundation/mattress toppers (if any), and the mattress.
An average bed height (for the average adult sleeper) is estimated to be around 25 inches from the ground above. It can, however, vary from person to person based on knee height and can range between 16 inches to 25 inches or more.
Bed height accounts for certain quality-of-life elements in the bedroom. These include -
Patients in hospitals are often placed in low beds, as it reduces the risk of them falling and hurting themselves. This occurrence isn't uncommon for average sleepers either, especially if they tend to move around a lot during the night. In such a case, where the sleeper is highly mobile, a low bed height is preferably recommended.
According to a study, getting in and out of a low bed requires more effort. Getting in and out of bed is a daily activity for many of us, right? A proper bed height can, therefore, ensure that you can effortlessly access and depart your bed.
This is especially true for older individuals, who are often restricted on the mobility front. Without a good bed height, they may have a higher tendency to injure themselves when accessing their beds.
An aesthetically pleasing bedroom is frequently sought after by a majority of us who love to come home to a haven of relaxation. It is a refreshing sight to the eyes, which, like our body, desires comfort as well.
Your bed's height complements the overall aesthetic and representation of your bedroom. For example, a low-platform bed best suits a minimalist-style bedroom.
Storage space is a mild but convenient aspect that depends on your bed height. Taller beds let you use the space beneath them, where you can store big items like boxes and suitcases. Conversely, lower beds close off any chance of storage space, prompting you to have to find some other place to store your stuff.
The storage space underneath tall beds is most effective when you're living in a small abode. This is when storage space is truly limited, and every square foot you can accrue is beneficial.
Bed height is heavily dependent on personal choice. Sure, around 25 inches is found to be the "standard" bed height, but it need not necessarily be the one that suits you. Here are all the factors you must consider when seeking the right bed height -
The angle at which your knees rest when you sit on the edge of the bed is the best indicator of proper bed height. Your knees must be at a 90-degree angle, with your feet flat on the ground.
If your knees are way above or below the 90-degree angle and discomfort sets in, then your search for the best bed height hasn't ended.
The taller you are, the harder it gets to use low beds. Similarly, the shorter you are, the harder it gets to use tall beds.
Heavy people may find it difficult to hoist themselves onto tall beds. Getting onto a lower bed can, therefore, prevent mobility issues for heavy individuals.
The older we get, the slower we move, and the harder we find it to climb or descend high beds. Elderly people with mobility issues may find low beds to be ideal.
Conditions like back pain, arthritis, disc degeneration, etc., affects mobility. This eventually leaves us yearning for a low bed height that is easier to climb onto without exerting much effort.
If you sleep with your partner, then their preference must also be taken into account when choosing bed height.
Of course, you won't both be the same height, so a compromise will have to be reached. Find a bed height that works for each of your body heights, weights, and health conditions.
Trying to fit a tall, traditional bed into a minimalist, modern room is bound to crush whatever stylistic harmony was once present. The same can be said for a short, modern bed in a grand, traditional room. Choosing the best bed height for your bedroom's aesthetic is important if you value the artistic vision you seek in your bedroom.
Bedroom size is another aspect affecting bed height, as tall beds may not fit small rooms. Moreover, storage will be an issue if you live in a small apartment with an even smaller bedroom. Tall beds will offer more storage space beneath them, whereas short beds do not offer much storage space, leaving you stranded on that front.
A bed frame/bed base is the lowermost part of the bed, which raises the mattress off the floor and offers it support. Various types of bed frames exist today. They each come with differing heights, prompting you to have a basic knowledge of each type before you buy a new bed frame.
Platform beds look modern, have a short profile, and remain low to the ground. A platform bed frame can offer a solid base that may eliminate the need for box springs/foundations.
Recommended For - Modern, minimalistic bedroom aesthetic | Shorter individuals | Heavy individuals | Elderly individuals | Children
Not Recommended For - Traditional, ornate bedroom aesthetic | Taller individuals | Storage
An adjustable bed frame allows you to raise or lower parts of the bed, helping you gain an elevated or flat status during the night. Adjustable beds are often applied in medical instances of injury and pain. An adjustable bed frame can also provide comfort to those who suffer from snoring and acid reflux.
Recommended For - Modern bedroom aesthetic | Medical conditions | Adjustable sleep postures
Not Recommended For - Budget/Traditional bedroom aesthetic | Children
Traditional beds have a classic design, with a headboard, footboard, and side rails. These standard bed frames will require a box spring/mattress foundation. Traditional frames usually have an average height profile.
Recommended For - Traditional, ornate bedroom aesthetic | Taller individuals
Not Recommended For - Modern, minimalistic bedroom aesthetic | Children
Antique beds go for a vintage design with intricate details on the wood or metal material. Antique frames also have a tall profile and tend to be a good bit above the ground.
Recommended For - Traditional, vintage bedroom aesthetic | Taller individuals | Storage
Not Recommended For - Modern, minimalistic bedroom aesthetic | Shorter individuals | Heavy people | Elderly individuals | Children
Upholstered beds have frames that are padded with leather or fabric. The bed frame height tends to be lower and closer to the ground.
Recommended For - Modern bedroom aesthetic | Shorter individuals | Heavy people | Elderly individuals | Children
Not Recommended For - Traditional bedroom aesthetic | Taller individuals | Storage
Futons have a sofa-like design that can be extended into a bed. Most futons have a low profile and work well in small rooms.
Recommended For - Modern, minimalistic bedroom aesthetic | Shorter individuals | Elderly individuals | Children
Not Recommended For - Traditional, ornate bedroom aesthetic | Taller individuals
Canopy/poster bed frames have four vertical posts that may support a canopy (curtain). They are frequently used in bedrooms to create a romantic/luxurious look. Canopy/poster beds have varying height profiles.
Recommended For - Luxurious/romantic bedroom aesthetic
Not Recommended For - Minimalistic bedroom aesthetic | Small bedroom
Mattress height/mattress thickness takes up almost half the height of your bed in most cases. A thicker mattress makes your bed higher (especially with a tall bed frame). Thinner mattresses, while not as supportive as thicker ones, do reduce the overall height of your bed. A thinner mattress may also offer better comfort. So it's safe to say that mattress height is a crucial aspect when considering bed height.
Bed risers are often touted as the best, most affordable solution to making your bed taller. They are small, sturdy supports that, when placed under the bed frame's legs, boost the overall bed height by a few inches. Other tactics include using a box spring, mattress foundation, mattress topper, lofting kit, etc.
For an average elderly person, the recommended bed height is between 20 to 23 inches tall. This can even go down to 18 inches tall, depending on your own height and health issues like joint pain. The bed height that helps you climb into and out of bed easier is the height you should adopt.
Take a measuring tape and start measuring from the floor to the top of the mattress. Repeat this task from various different points of the bed to account for any unevenness in the surface. Additionally, make sure you include components like a box spring/mattress foundation/mattress topper if you have them in your bed.
Related blog posts:
1. Bed Risers
5. Bed Frame Sizes and Dimensions Guide
Disclaimer: What is said in this article has been referenced from multiple sources and is intended only for educational and informational purposes. Please note that no content in this article is a substitute for professional advice from a qualified doctor or healthcare provider. Always consult an experienced doctor with any concerns you may have regarding a health condition or treatment, and never disregard any medical suggestions or delay in seeking treatment because of something you read here.
