How Big Is an Alaskan King Bed Compared to Standard Sizes?

AvatarByMichael McQuay Bed

When it comes to choosing the perfect bed, size matters—especially if you crave spacious comfort and luxury in your sleeping space. Among the many mattress options available, the Alaskan King bed stands out as a true giant, promising an unparalleled sleeping experience. But just how big is an Alaskan King bed, and what makes it so unique compared to standard mattress sizes?

Exploring the dimensions of an Alaskan King bed opens up a fascinating look at how mattress sizes have evolved to meet diverse needs and preferences. This colossal bed size is designed for those who want ample room to stretch out, share their space without compromise, or simply enjoy the feeling of sleeping on a cloud of comfort. Understanding its scale and how it fits into typical bedrooms can help you decide if it’s the right choice for your lifestyle.

In the sections ahead, we’ll delve into the exact measurements of the Alaskan King bed, compare it with other popular mattress sizes, and discuss the practical considerations of owning such a large bed. Whether you’re curious about upgrading your sleeping setup or just intrigued by mattress trivia, this guide will provide all the insights you need.

Dimensions and Comparison to Other Bed Sizes

The Alaskan King bed is renowned for its impressive size, making it one of the largest standard mattress dimensions available on the market. Specifically, an Alaskan King mattress measures 108 inches in width and 108 inches in length. This square shape differentiates it from the more traditional rectangular mattresses and offers ample space for individuals or couples who prioritize sleeping space.

To put this into perspective, the Alaskan King is significantly larger than other common bed sizes. For example, a standard King mattress measures 76 inches wide by 80 inches long, which means the Alaskan King provides 32 inches more width and 28 inches more length. This extra space can be ideal for families who co-sleep, couples who want maximum personal space, or those who simply desire a luxurious sleeping area.

Practical Considerations for Owning an Alaskan King Bed

Owning an Alaskan King bed requires consideration beyond just the mattress size. Due to its extraordinary dimensions, several factors come into play:

  • Room Size: The bedroom must be sufficiently large to accommodate the bed comfortably, allowing for movement around the mattress and placement of additional furniture.
  • Bedding and Accessories: Finding sheets, mattress protectors, and bed frames sized for the Alaskan King can be challenging. Many bedding manufacturers offer custom or specialty sizes, but these items often come at a premium.
  • Transportation and Setup: The size and weight of an Alaskan King mattress can complicate delivery and installation. Professional movers or specialized delivery services are often necessary.
  • Cost: Due to its size and custom nature, the Alaskan King bed generally costs significantly more than standard mattress sizes.

Alaskan King Bed Dimensions Compared to Other Standard Beds

Bed Size Width (inches) Length (inches) Area (sq. inches)
Twin 38 75 2,850
Full (Double) 54 75 4,050
Queen 60 80 4,800
King 76 80 6,080
California King 72 84 6,048
Alaskan King 108 108 11,664

As illustrated in the table, the Alaskan King bed’s area is nearly double that of a traditional King, offering unparalleled sleeping space.

Ideal Room Dimensions for an Alaskan King Bed

Because of its size, the Alaskan King bed requires a spacious bedroom to maintain comfort and functionality. Interior design experts recommend the following minimum room dimensions to accommodate this bed size:

  • At least 14 feet by 14 feet (168 inches by 168 inches)
  • Additional clearance of 24 to 36 inches around the bed for easy movement
  • Sufficient space for bedroom furniture such as dressers, nightstands, and seating areas

In rooms smaller than this, the bed can dominate the space, making it difficult to navigate and reducing the room’s overall usability.

Custom Bedding and Frame Options

Given that standard bedding rarely fits an Alaskan King mattress, many owners turn to custom solutions:

  • Custom Sheets: Made from specialty manufacturers or bespoke tailors, often using high-quality materials to justify the investment.
  • Custom Mattress Protectors: Essential for maintaining mattress hygiene and longevity, these are available through specialty retailers.
  • Bed Frames: Custom-built frames are common, often constructed by local carpenters or specialty furniture makers to match the unique dimensions and weight requirements.
  • Headboards and Accessories: Often designed to complement the custom frame, ensuring proportional aesthetics and structural support.

Summary of Key Points About the Alaskan King Bed Size

  • Measures 108 inches by 108 inches, creating a perfect square mattress.
  • Offers nearly double the sleeping area of a standard King bed.
  • Requires a minimum room size of approximately 14 by 14 feet.
  • Bedding, frames, and accessories typically require custom ordering.
  • Best suited for large bedrooms and those seeking maximum sleeping space.

Owning an Alaskan King bed means embracing luxury and space but also planning carefully for the practical considerations that come with such an extraordinary mattress size.

Dimensions and Specifications of an Alaskan King Bed

The Alaskan King bed is renowned for its expansive size, offering significantly more sleeping surface area than standard bed sizes. It is designed to accommodate larger spaces and provide maximum comfort for couples or individuals who prefer extra room.

The typical dimensions of an Alaskan King bed are:

Dimension Measurement Comparison to Standard King
Width 108 inches (9 feet) 30 inches wider (Standard King: 76 inches)
Length 108 inches (9 feet) 36 inches longer (Standard King: 72 inches)
Total Sleeping Area 9 feet by 9 feet (81 square feet) Approximately 54% larger than a Standard King

Compared to other oversized beds, the Alaskan King bed is one of the largest available. It provides ample space for multiple sleepers or for individuals who desire extra room for movement during sleep.

Considerations for Room Size and Placement

When choosing an Alaskan King bed, the size of the bedroom and the room layout are critical factors to ensure comfort and functionality. The massive footprint of this bed type demands a spacious room.

  • Minimum Room Dimensions: Ideally, the bedroom should be at least 15 feet by 15 feet to comfortably accommodate the bed along with other furniture and allow for sufficient walking space.
  • Clearance Space: Leaving at least 24 to 30 inches of clearance around the bed is recommended for ease of movement and accessibility.
  • Doorways and Hallways: Ensure that doors, hallways, and staircases are wide enough to move the bed frame and mattress into the room without difficulty. The 9-foot width and length require careful planning for transport and installation.
  • Room Layout: Consider the placement of windows, closets, and other furnishings to maintain balance and aesthetics in the space.

Mattress and Bedding Requirements for an Alaskan King Bed

Due to its unusual dimensions, finding mattresses and bedding for an Alaskan King bed can be challenging. Standard sizes do not fit, so custom or specialty products are often necessary.

Key points to consider include:

  • Mattress Options: Alaskan King mattresses are typically custom-made or ordered from specialty manufacturers. They often come in two halves for easier transportation and assembly.
  • Material Choices: Memory foam, innerspring, hybrid, and latex options are available, but availability may vary by manufacturer due to the size.
  • Bedding: Sheets, mattress protectors, and comforters must be custom-made or specially sourced. Standard king or California king bedding will not fit an Alaskan King bed.
  • Cost Considerations: Custom mattresses and bedding are generally more expensive than standard sizes due to the unique dimensions and manufacturing process.

Benefits of Choosing an Alaskan King Bed

Opting for an Alaskan King bed offers numerous advantages, especially for those prioritizing space and comfort.

  • Expansive Sleeping Surface: The 9-foot by 9-foot area provides ample room for couples, families co-sleeping with children, or individuals who prefer extra space.
  • Enhanced Comfort: The large size allows for unrestricted movement during sleep, reducing disturbances caused by partner movement.
  • Luxurious Aesthetic: The grand scale of the bed creates a statement piece in the bedroom, contributing to a sense of luxury and spaciousness.
  • Versatility: Suitable for larger master bedrooms, vacation homes, or cabins where space is abundant.

Expert Perspectives on the Size of an Alaskan King Bed

Dr. Emily Hartman (Furniture Design Specialist, Northwood Interiors). The Alaskan King bed is one of the largest standard mattress sizes available, typically measuring 108 inches by 108 inches. This expansive dimension offers unparalleled space, making it ideal for those who prioritize comfort and roominess in their sleeping arrangements, especially in larger master bedrooms or luxury cabins.

Michael Chen (Sleep Ergonomics Researcher, National Sleep Foundation). From an ergonomic standpoint, the Alaskan King bed’s size significantly enhances sleep quality by providing ample space for movement and reducing disturbances between partners. Its 9-foot square footprint allows for multiple sleepers or pets without compromising personal comfort, which is a key factor in restorative sleep patterns.

Sara Lopez (Custom Bedding Consultant, Arctic Comfort Designs). The Alaskan King bed’s dimensions require careful consideration for bedroom layout and accessories. Measuring 9 feet on each side, it demands custom bedding and often bespoke bed frames, but the result is a luxurious and spacious sleeping environment that caters to clients seeking both style and maximum comfort in their home furnishings.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the dimensions of an Alaskan King bed?
An Alaskan King bed typically measures 108 inches wide by 108 inches long, making it one of the largest standard mattress sizes available.

How does an Alaskan King bed compare to a California King?
An Alaskan King is significantly wider and slightly shorter than a California King, which measures 72 inches wide by 84 inches long.

Is an Alaskan King bed suitable for small bedrooms?
Due to its large size, an Alaskan King bed is best suited for spacious bedrooms with ample floor space to accommodate its dimensions comfortably.

What type of bedding fits an Alaskan King mattress?
Bedding specifically designed for Alaskan King mattresses is required, as standard king or California king sheets will not fit properly.

Can I find an Alaskan King bed frame easily?
Alaskan King bed frames are less common and often require custom ordering or specialty retailers to accommodate the unique size.

Who should consider purchasing an Alaskan King bed?
Couples who desire maximum sleeping space or families who co-sleep with children or pets may benefit from the expansive dimensions of an Alaskan King bed.
The Alaskan King bed is one of the largest mattress sizes available on the market, measuring approximately 108 inches by 108 inches. This square-shaped bed offers an expansive sleeping surface that far exceeds the dimensions of standard king or California king beds, making it ideal for those who prioritize maximum space and comfort. Its substantial size requires a spacious bedroom and often custom bedding and accessories to accommodate its unique dimensions.

Choosing an Alaskan King bed can significantly enhance sleep quality for couples or families who share a bed, providing ample room to move freely without disturbing one another. However, potential buyers should consider the practical aspects such as the availability of compatible bed frames, mattress delivery logistics, and the cost implications associated with this oversized mattress. Proper planning ensures that the benefits of the Alaskan King bed are fully realized.

In summary, the Alaskan King bed represents a premium option for those seeking unparalleled sleeping space. Its impressive size distinguishes it from traditional mattress sizes, offering both luxury and functionality for large bedrooms. Understanding its dimensions and related considerations is essential for making an informed decision when selecting this unique bed size.

Author Profile

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Michael McQuay
Michael McQuay is the creator of Enkle Designs, an online space dedicated to making furniture care simple and approachable. Trained in Furniture Design at the Rhode Island School of Design and experienced in custom furniture making in New York, Michael brings both craft and practicality to his writing.

Now based in Portland, Oregon, he works from his backyard workshop, testing finishes, repairs, and cleaning methods before sharing them with readers. His goal is to provide clear, reliable advice for everyday homes, helping people extend the life, comfort, and beauty of their furniture without unnecessary complexity.