When it comes to designing a bedroom that’s both stylish and functional, the headboard often plays a crucial role. Choosing the right headboard size ensures that your bed looks well-proportioned and complements your room’s aesthetic. Many people buy headboards for extra comfort and support while sleeping. They come in different styles and designs, so they can also be used to decorate your room. Before choosing a headboard, make sure it fits both your mattress and your room. Some headboards are big and bulky, so picking the right size will help keep your room from looking messy.
This article will provide you with detailed info on how to choose a headboard by looking at its size and explaining the different types you can buy.
Headboard Height
Standard headboard height ranges from about 14 inches above the mattress for smaller sizes to over 29 inches for larger ones. While there aren’t height requirements for a headboard, a good tip is to make sure the headboard is shorter than the length of your bed. If the headboard is too tall, it might weaken the bed and cause problems.
Headboard Width
A standard headboard is usually 2 to 4 inches wider than your bed frame.
You need about two inches of extra space on each side to attach the headboard properly, so think about your room’s size before buying one.
Similarly, consider the space needed for other bedroom furniture like dressers and bedside tables to avoid making the room feel crowded.
The chart below shows the typical headboard widths for different mattress sizes and the suggested room sizes.
Extra-Wide Headboards
Extra-wide headboards are about twice as wide as your bed, ranging from 25 to 30 inches. They are often mounted on the wall rather than attached to the bed.
If you need a headboard to protect your wall, an extra-wide one could be a great option.
When choosing an extra-wide headboard, make sure you have a large room, ideally at least 10 feet by 10 feet, to avoid making the space feel cramped. These headboards work best with California king or king beds.
| MATTRESS SIZE | HEADBOARD WIDTH | MATTRESS DIMENSIONS (IN) | RECOMMENDED ROOM SIZE (FT) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Twin | 41 inches | 38 inches by 74 inches | 7 feet by 10 feet |
| Full | 56 inches | 54 inches by 74 inches | 10 feet by 10 feet |
| Queen | 62 inches | 60 inches by 80 inches | 10 feet by 10 feet |
| King | 80 inches | 76 inches by 80 inches | 12 feet by 12 feet |
| California King | 74 inches | 72 inches by 84 inches | 12 feet by 12 feet |
Adjustable Headboards
Adjustable headboards usually have movable legs that let you change their height. They are the best option for those who are unsure of the proper headboard height for the beds.
They are also very convenient if you’re buying a new mattress and want to keep your current headboard.
Tall Headboards
Tall headboards, which are 65 to 70 inches high, help keep your head from leaning against the wall when you sit up in bed.
They work best with California king or standard king beds, and sometimes with queen beds because they can handle the extra height.
Low Profile Headboards
Low-profile headboards are short and typically used with smaller beds for children, teens, or guests.
They are 10 to 12 inches above the top of the bed and work well with twin, twin XL, or full-size beds. These headboards are great for guest bedrooms and help keep the room feeling open and spacious.
Also read, Top Four Best Mattresses Without Fiberglass for a Safe and Comfortable Sleep
How to Fix a Gap Between a Mattress and a Headboard
One of the best ways to fix a gap between your mattress and headboard is to use mattress wedges.
These foam wedges can be placed between the mattress and the headboard to fill the gap. You can also try adjusting your bed frame.
Unhook the frame in the middle to widen it, then push the frame back against the headboard.
After that, place the box spring and mattress on top, pushing them against the headboard as well. These adjustments can help keep everything aligned and reduce the gap.
Variety of Headboards
It will be the best idea to consider the type of material that will match your bedroom decor before choosing a headboard. Likewise, If you have limited space, a sleek headboard might be a better choice than a larger one. Following are popular varieties of headboards you may select for your bed.
Wooden Headboards
Wooden headboards are very popular because they offer a classic and versatile look that suits many design styles, including modern, traditional, and rustic.
You can choose a natural wood finish or paint them to match your room’s decor and other furniture. Wooden headboards are usually made from materials like pine, oak, and maple. For a more budget-friendly option, you can find headboards made from plywood, but they aren’t as durable as solid wood options.
Metal Headboards
Metal headboards are made from materials like brass, wrought iron, brushed aluminum, and stainless steel. They are an affordable option known for their sleek stylish designs.
Because metal headboards are more minimalistic, they work well in smaller rooms. While they can complement various bedroom styles, it’s best to keep them in their natural finish to avoid chipping.
Storage Headboards
Storage headboards are ideal for those needing extra space for items. They often come with platform beds and feature built-in drawers or shelves for storing books, photos, clocks, and bedroom decor. However, they are quite bulky, so ensure you have enough room in your bedroom for them.
Upholstered Headboards
Upholstered headboards have soft padding covered with plush fabrics like velvet or linen which offers comfort and support when sitting in bed.
Some of these headboards feature decorative details like buttons, nailhead trim, or stitching for an elegant look.
Moreover, they also come in a wide range of colors and patterns to complement your sheets and bedroom furniture.
Types of Upholstered Headboards
Upholstered headboards come in different designs to enhance your bedroom’s style. Here are some common types you can find:
Straight: Usually rectangular, straight headboards have a simple design and may feature unique prints or fabrics.
Wood-Framed: These headboards have a wooden frame around the edges with upholstered fabric in the center. The wood adds a decorative touch.
Freestanding: These headboards are sold separately from the bed frame. You can attach them to the bed frame, mattress foundation, or wall, but they can also stand alone without any mounting.
Tufted: Tufted headboards have buttons sewn or stapled in rows over the fabric to create a plush, elegant appearance.
Frequently Asked Question
How do I choose the right headboard size for my bed?
To choose the right headboard size, match the width of the headboard to the width of your bed frame. The height of the headboard should complement the height of your mattress and the dimensions of your room.
Can I use a headboard with any bed frame?
Most headboards can be used with a variety of bed frames, but compatibility depends on the type of bed frame and headboard. Check that the bed frame has pre-drilled holes or brackets for attaching the headboard, or be prepared to purchase additional hardware if needed.
You may also like to read, Know Everything About King Size Bed Frame Measurements
