LIZ HALL
Head of Content
Liz has been a professional content manager since the internet was invented. Getting better quality sleep has always been a passion of hers – especially once she had kids! Liz now writes and curates our content, making sure to test all the products she can to give you an unbiased opinion. Learn more about our team.
We can all agree that getting a good night’s sleep is a vital part of ensuring that our brains have time to rest and our body rejuvenates, ready for the next day. However, people ignore the importance of bed height and assume it does not contribute to sleeping correctly.
So if you thought that it does not matter how high or low your bed is, you might be missing out on the best sleep possible. Although the comfort and design of the bed are vital aspects when making a purchase, bed height is also a vital part of the equation.
However, like many other things in life, there is no one-bed height that fits all because of factors such as height, weight, and age. Read on to find out how to select an ideal bed, various types of bed frames (such as the best adjustable beds) and how to choose a good bed frame that suits your needs and style.
Table of Contents
Average Bed Height
There is no one-bed height for all people because everyone is a different height and at a different stage in their lives. However, the average ‘ideal’ bed height is around 25 inches. This is measured from the top of the mattress to the ground.
Although 25 inches is the standard bed and mattress height, it is vital to select a bed frame that correlates with your height. Start by sitting on your bed; if your feet touch the ground and your legs are at a 90-degree angle, then the bed is the right fit. However, if your feet dangle, the bed is too high; on the other hand, if you have to bend your feet, then the bed is too low.
Why It Is Important To Select An Appropriate Bed Height For You
Selecting the right bed height is vital in ensuring that you sleep well and don’t have trouble getting in and out of bed. Although a tall bed is good for tall people because you can comfortably sit, get off and get on the bed without struggling, you should avoid it if you have health issues.
On the other hand, a lower bed is unsuitable for someone with back problems because you will be forced to bend when making the bed, thus straining your back. It is also advisable to consider your style, bedroom decor, and room size, especially if you don’t have any health issues. A low bed will give your room an open feel, while a tall bed has more storage space underneath, and it also looks good in a room with high ceilings.
Factors To Consider When Choosing Your Bed Height
Although we all have our personal preference for bed height and other bedroom furniture, it is vital to get quality sleep. Here are the factors you should consider when choosing a bed:
Height
As we have mentioned above, it is vital to consider your height when purchasing a new bed. If you are tall, a standard bed frame may not be a good idea because you will be forced to bend when getting in or out of bed. On the other hand, you should steer clear of tall beds if you are short and not fond of hoisting yourself into bed and jumping down in the morning.
Age
Taller beds are not ideal for elderly and young children. Most elderly sleepers have knee and back joints, thus making getting out of taller beds difficult. Buying a tall bed for a small child is risky as they may roll and fall in their sleep leading to severe injuries.
Mattress Thickness
The thickness of the mattress also contributes to the overall height of the bed, so before buying a bed, you should consider the thickness of the mattress you have or are planning to buy. So if you love sleeping on a thinner mattress, you will need a higher bed so that you are not too low on the ground.
On the other hand, if you prefer a thicker mattress, go for a lower bed to achieve an average bed height. If using an adjustable bed, make sure your model won’t damage the mattress.
Sleep Partner
Now that you know that bed and mattress height matter, it may seem easy to select the best bed height for you. However, it becomes a little complicated if you have a sleeping partner, especially if they have health issues. If one of you has a health condition that makes getting in and out of bed harder, then the healthy partner should adapt to their needs. If the bed becomes too high for one partner, they can use a step stool to make getting in and out of bed easier.
Benefits of High Beds Vs. Advantages Of Low Beds
Here are the benefits of a high bed:
- You get more under bed storage space
- It is easy to change sheets because you don’t need to bend
- It is easy to clean under the bed
Lower beds also have advantages such as,
- Small children and pets can easily hop on the bed
- They make a room look bigger
- You can add a foundation to raise them off the ground
Disadvantages of High Bed Vs. Disadvantages Of Low Beds
Here are the disadvantages of buying a high bed:
- You cannot buy a high bed for a small room or a room with a low ceiling
- They are not suitable for young children
- They are not suitable for elderly people or people recovering from illnesses
A low bed is not suitable for:
- Tall people
- It is difficult to clean under a low bed
- There is no storage space under the bed
How To Raise Your Bed Frame
If you buy a low bed but discover that you are not comfortable on it, you don’t need to waste money buying a new one. Here are a few tips you can use to raise the bed.
Bed Risers
Bed risers are an affordable and easy way of lifting your bed. There are various bed risers such as plastic, wood, and metal that you can use to raise any type of bed. All you need are 4 equal bet toppers for each foot of the bed, and you are good to go.
Mattress Topper
If you don’t want to raise the bed’s legs, a mattress topper is an excellent idea. The best part about mattress toppers is that you place them under the mattress, so the bed remains uniform. They are also durable so you will use them for a long time.
Wheels
If you just need to raise your bed a couple of inches, then wheels are the best option for you. All you need are good sturdy wheels and screws. You need to put the wheels on the four legs of the bed wheels, and they will raise the bed a couple of inches above the ground.
Types Of Bed Frames
Platform Bed Frames
Any bed that can support your mattress on its own is a platform bed. There are lower beds, and they mostly have a solid or slatted surface. Platform beds are comfortable for the average person and they do not require a box spring or any other type of foundation.
Adjustable Beds
Adjustable bed frames have become increasingly popular as people discover the health benefits they have for people regardless of their sleeping position. An adjustable bed frame gives you the freedom to adjust your bed frame to suit your sleeping position and enjoy healthy sleep and relaxation, handy if you like to elevate your feet in bed.
Antique Bed Frames
Also known as a traditional bed frame, an antique bed is as tall as normal bed gets. A traditional bed frame can be up to 30 inches, and thus, it is better for tall people. Unlike platform beds, you will need a box spring or other foundation types to support the simple metal frame.
Upholstered Bed Frames
Upholstered bed frames are usually covered in fabric; although some are covered fully, others it is just the headboard. This bed frame is for people who want a beautiful bed to fit their bedroom decor. They are usually lower on the ground, but if you like a taller bed, you can add a foundation to your upholstered bed.
Bunk Bed
Bunk beds are kids’ favorite, and they also save on space because you can stack two beds, one on top of the other. Bunk beds have rails to prevent kids from rolling and falling, and thus, your children’s safety is guaranteed. Another thing is that, like other taller beds, bunk beds are suitable for rooms with taller ceilings.
FAQs About Bed Height
Why is bed height significant?
Bed height is essential because it affects how you get on and off the bed. If you buy a too tall bed, you will be forced to hoist yourself up and jump when getting down. That is why you need to find a bed that has an ideal height as per your height.
What is the ideal bed height?
25 inches is the ideal bed height; however, this high is for a person with average height. Ensure that you buy a bed that is ideal for your height. You can buy taller beds if you are tall and standard beds if you are of average height.
Can mattress thickness affect bed height?
Yes, thick mattresses are readily available, and if your bed is tall, adding a thick mattress may make it taller. So purchase a thinner mattress if your bed is tall and a thicker mattress if your bed is of average height.
What is the best bed frame?
There are various bed frames you can choose from depending on your taste, decor, and needs. That is why it is advisable to research so that you can settle on a bed frame that will suit your needs and blend with the decor in your bedroom.
Over To You
When buying a bed, considering your bed height is very important because it may affect your health or those you love. If you prefer a high bed, you can always use risers, mattress toppers, or wheels to adjust the bed height.
Additionally, you can buy an adjustable bed frame that allows you to raise the bed or lower it to ensure you sleep in a healthy position without straining your back or shoulders. There are various adjustable beds you can choose from, and you can also customize them to suit your taste and decor.
Remember that sleeping well ensures that you wake up refreshed and ready for the day, so make sure your bed is comfortable.
