If there’s one thing you can say about your home, it’s that it’s the place you can rest your head. But if your bed – or your head – isn’t feeling exactly inspiredlately, it might be time for a new headboard. But where do you start?
Fortunately, we have your ultimate guide on headboard sizes and dimensions. Whether you're redecorating, moving or just looking to upgrade your bedroom, choosing the right headboard can be a game-changer. Not only does a headboard anchor the aesthetic of your room, but it also adds functionality and comfort to your space.
In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about headboards, ensuring your purchase fits perfectly with your bed, room size and style.
Source: KOUBOO
When considering the width of a headboard, you’ll want to consider both your mattress size andyour bedding. Some thin, minimalist quilts may not add much width to your mattress, but if you’re a sucker for a fluffy duvet or down comforter, you may want to take the extra few inches into consideration when determining the width of your headboard.
If you’re working with a King bed, make sure you know whether you have an Eastern King or California King. A California King, as noted above, is 4 inches narrower than an Eastern King. While your headboard might feel interchangeable, you may want to reconsider if your bedding doesn’t make up for some of the width.
Additionally, it's essential to not only look at the size of your bed, but also to consider the overall room layout, because a headboard should be proportional to boththe bed and the room. A too-narrow headboard can look underwhelming, while an overly wide one might overwhelm the space. You’ll also want to account for additional furniture like bedside tables. A good rule of thumb is that the headboard width should not exceed the width of the bed by more than a few inches on each side.
Source: DecorPad
Tall headboards, often ranging from 50 inches or higher, can feel dramatic and luxurious. That said, they work best in rooms with high ceilings and will likely become the focal point of your bedroom décor. Consider a tall headboard if you want to add a touch of elegance. They are especially suitable for rooms with minimal other decorations, allowing the headboard to stand out.
Source: Mountainside Home
Adjustable-height headboards offer versatility and can adapt to various needs and styles. They are ideal if you enjoy changing your room's layout or if you're unsure about the ideal headboard height. These headboards are typically fitted with mechanisms or slots that allow for height adjustment.
Source: LIVSPACE
The size of the room plays a critical role in determining the appropriate headboard size. A larger room can accommodate a taller and wider headboard without looking cramped. Conversely, a smaller room might benefit from a more modest-sized headboard to maintain a balanced look. It's essential to measure your room and envision how the headboard will fit within the overall space.
Source: KOUBOO
The choice of what to put above a headboard depends on the headboard's height and the room's style. For taller headboards, consider simpler decorations like a small piece of art or a decorative mirror. For lower headboards, you have more space to play with and can opt for larger artwork or a gallery wall.
Source: TLC Interiors
Not all headboards can be attached to any bed frame. It's important to check the compatibility of the headboard with your bed frame. Some headboards are designed to be mounted on the wall, while others are meant to be attached directly to the bed frame.
Additionally, sandwiching your headboard between your wall and the bed isn’t a bad idea either, as it gives you more flexibility for changing things around and is generally stable enough with just your bed frame and the wall. That said, if you’re looking to attach a headboard not made for your frame, you can usually purchase brackets to help, though you may need to exercise your DIY muscles.
