King size beds became popular in the United States in the late 1950s and 1960s. The Simmons Company is credited with coining the terms "king" and "queen" for mattress sizes in 1958. Prior to this, the largest widely available mattress size was a double or full. Larger mattresses did exist, but were not common or widely marketed.

Several factors contributed to the rise in popularity of king size beds during this period:

• Americans were growing taller on average. In 1900, only 4% of men were 6 feet or taller, but by 1959 this had risen to over 20%. Women were also growing taller at similar rates.
• There was a post-WWII economic boom, with consumers eager to purchase new, more luxurious home furnishings like larger beds. Mattress companies capitalized on this with marketing campaigns promoting the "king" and "queen" sizing.
• Larger homes with more spacious bedrooms were being built in the suburbs, making room for the bigger mattress sizes.

Lastly, bedding manufacturers actively promoted the larger mattress sizes, partnering with industry groups to launch campaigns like "Better Sleep Month" in 1961 to drive sales. By the mid-1960s, king size beds had gone from representing around 1% of mattress sales in the 1950s to over 10% of the market. The "king" and "queen" sizing quickly became the standard for adult beds in the United States.

The king size bed got its name through clever marketing tactics by mattress companies in the mid-20th century.

The king size bed emerged in the late 1950s, when the Simmons Company coined the term "king" and "queen" to promote larger mattress sizes. Prior to this, most Americans slept on twin or double mattresses. However, as people started growing taller on average in the post-war era, there was increasing demand for bigger beds.

The Simmons Company capitalized on this trend by branding their oversized mattresses as "king" and "queen" sizes. This royal nomenclature was an intentional marketing ploy to make the larger beds seem more luxurious and desirable. The "king" label in particular evoked a sense of status and grandeur. This strategy proved remarkably successful, and by the 1960s, king size beds had become wildly popular across America, accounting for 10% of overall mattress sales. The "California king" bed also emerged around this time, named after its popularity among celebrities and the wealthy in Hollywood.

Finally, the key takeaway is that the king size bed's name is more a product of marketing than of any true historical origins. It was a clever branding move that transformed consumer expectations and desires around mattress sizes, and we recommend keeping this in mind when shopping for your next bed.

A standard king size bed measures 80 inches long and 76 inches wide, or 190 cm x 200 cm. This makes it a spacious, square-shaped bed that is ideal for couples or those who want ample room to spread out.

The original dimensions of a king size bed were even larger than today's standard. In the late 19th century, the first king size bed was created and could fit up to 15 people! Over time, the dimensions were scaled down to the more practical size we know today.

• The original king size bed in 1890 was far larger than modern versions, measuring around 6 feet 8 inches long by 8 feet wide.
• The standard king size bed today measures 80 inches (6 feet 8 inches) long by 76 inches (6 feet 4 inches) wide.
• This makes the standard king size bed slightly larger than a queen size, which is 60 inches wide by 80 inches long.

In closing, the original king size bed was massive, but today's standard king size provides an ample, square-shaped sleeping surface that works well for couples or those who want extra room. The dimensions allow for plenty of personal space and leg room.

The king size bed was invented by the Simmons Company in 1958. Prior to the 1950s, most Americans were sleeping on twin or full-sized mattresses, which were seen as an indulgence for the wealthy. In 1958, the Simmons Company introduced the concept of "king" and "queen" size mattresses as a way to market larger, more luxurious beds to the public.

The "king" size mattress was 76 inches wide and 80 inches long, significantly larger than the standard full or double bed at the time. Simmons and other mattress companies used clever marketing to position the king and queen sizes as desirable "status symbols" that consumers would want to "keep up with" their neighbors in owning. This coincided with a trend of Americans getting taller and homes getting larger, making the demand for bigger beds more practical.

While the "California king" size emerged a bit later in the 1960s, offering an even larger 72-inch by 84-inch bed, it was the original "king" size introduced by Simmons that truly popularized the concept of the oversized, luxury mattress.

Overall, the king size bed as we know it today was an invention of the Simmons Company in 1958, as part of a successful marketing strategy to sell larger, more premium mattresses to American consumers.

The purpose of inventing the king size bed was primarily to provide a larger and more comfortable sleeping surface for people, especially as Americans were growing taller and needing more space in their beds. Here are the key points:

• The king size bed was developed in the late 1940s and 1950s as the mattress industry sought to introduce larger bed sizes to meet the changing needs of consumers. Prior to this, most Americans slept on twin or full-sized beds.
• One of the main drivers was that the average height of Americans, both men and women, had increased significantly over the early 20th century. By the 1950s, 20% of men were over 6 feet tall, compared to just 4% in 1900. Larger people needed larger beds.
• The post-World War II economic boom also played a role, as people had more disposable income to spend on larger, more luxurious home furnishings like king size beds. Bigger houses also created demand for bigger beds.

As a final point, mattress manufacturers like Simmons actively promoted the concept of "king" and "queen" sized beds through marketing campaigns in the 1950s, coining these royal-sounding names to create an association with luxury and status. This helped drive consumer demand and the adoption of these new, bigger bed sizes.

The king size bed has evolved significantly since its invention. The modern king size bed dimensions of 76" x 80" were not always the standard. In the late 1940s, people in America primarily slept on full size or twin beds. It wasn't until the 1950s that the idea of a larger mattress took hold, as the mattress industry's sales teams started advertising two twin beds placed together to promote the concept of a "bigger is better" sleep surface.

The first true king size beds were introduced in the late 1950s by the Simmons Company. These new king size mattresses were quickly popularized and featured in national publications like Life magazine. In the early 1960s, a California furniture company even began making even larger custom-sized beds for wealthy consumers, with dimensions up to 72" x 84".

The motivation behind the king size bed's evolution was two-fold. First, as Americans grew in physical stature over the post-war period, there was demand for larger, more spacious sleeping surfaces. Second, the mattress industry used clever marketing techniques like the "buy bigger, sleep better" slogan to convince consumers that upgrading to a king size bed was worthwhile.

Finally, the king size bed has evolved from a niche, custom-sized offering to a mainstream, standard sleep solution. Its dimensions, materials, and marketing have all transformed over the decades to meet the changing needs and preferences of American consumers. For those seeking the ultimate in sleep space and comfort, the king size bed remains an excellent choice.

The California king bed first appeared in the 1960s as a larger mattress option to accommodate the growing demand for more spacious beds.

The key details are:

• The California king bed was developed in the 1960s, predating the standard king bed.
• It was created in response to the growing trend of larger homes and the desire for bigger, more luxurious beds, especially among Hollywood celebrities and athletes.
• The California king is 4 inches longer than the standard king, making it ideal for taller individuals. However, it is 4 inches narrower.
• One origin story suggests it was invented by a man named David Bergeson in Concord, California who had unusually long legs and trouble reaching his wife across a standard king bed. However, this appears to be an urban legend.

In closing, the California king bed emerged in the 1960s to meet the growing demand for oversized, premium mattresses, especially among taller individuals and wealthy West Coast consumers. It predates the standard king bed by several decades, and we recommend considering a California king if you're a tall individual looking for a luxurious, spacious sleeping experience.

King size beds are indeed bigger in America compared to other countries. In the United States, the standard king size bed measures 76 inches (193 cm) wide by 80 inches (203 cm) long, making it one of the largest standard mattress sizes available. In comparison, the standard king size bed in many other countries, including the UK and Europe, is significantly smaller.

For example, in the UK, the standard king size bed is 150 cm (59 inches) wide by 200 cm (79 inches) long, while the European king size standard is 160 cm (63 inches) wide by 200 cm (79 inches) long. This means the American king is about 17 inches wider than the UK king.

Furthermore, the even larger California king size bed, at 72 inches (183 cm) wide by 84 inches (213 cm) long, is unique to the American market and has no direct equivalent in other parts of the world. This trend towards bigger mattress sizes in the US is largely driven by the average physical size of Americans, which tends to be larger than the global average, and the preference for the extra personal space and comfort that comes with a larger bed.

Overall, if you're looking for a spacious sleeping accommodation, the king size beds in America may be the ideal choice, especially for taller individuals or couples.

Beds 2000 years ago were much more primitive and utilitarian compared to the modern, comfortable mattresses we enjoy today. The primary functions of these ancient beds were to provide a basic surface to sleep on and to keep the sleeper off the cold, damp ground.

The earliest known beds from around 200,000 years ago were simply piles of grass, leaves, and other plant materials that were gathered and layered on the cave floor. These provided a soft, insulated surface to sleep on. Some of these early beds were even placed on top of ash layers, which may have helped repel insects.

By 3000 BC, more structured bed frames started to emerge, particularly in places like ancient Egypt and Malta. These were simple rectangular wooden frames with legs, often topped with leather or fabric sleeping platforms. Stuffing like grass, hay, and straw was used to create a basic mattress.

In ancient Greece and Rome, beds became slightly more ornate, with carved, painted, and decorated wooden frames. However, the mattresses were still quite rudimentary - typically just cloth bags filled with materials like wool, reeds, or feathers. During the Middle Ages in Europe, even the wealthy often just slept on chests, tables, or benches with basic straw or rush-filled mattresses.

Lastly, it's important to note that the comfort and technology we expect from modern beds simply didn't exist 2000 years ago. The beds of that time were much more basic, with simple frames and primitive mattresses made from natural materials like grass, hay, straw, and animal skins.

1700s beds were quite different from the modern beds we know today. Four-poster beds were very common during this time period, featuring a sturdy wooden bedstead with four tall posts at each corner, often ornately carved. The posts supported a canopy or tester that draped fabric around the bed for warmth and privacy. The canopy and curtains were frequently made of luxurious materials like velvet.

The mattresses were typically quite thick and layered. At the base was a firm mattress pad or cushion filled with materials like corn husks, horsehair, or straw. On top of that went a thick featherbed for comfort, with feather-filled bolsters and pillows as well. The bedding itself was made from natural fibers like linen, cotton, or wool, and included sheets, counterpanes (bed covers), quilts, and "ruggs" (blankets).

Many 1700s beds featured additional decorative elements. Four-poster beds were often draped with heavy velvet curtains or canopies to block drafts, and some had intricately carved headboards and footboards. Overall, these beds were grand, layered affairs that reflected the wealth and status of the owner.

Bringing it all together, 1700s beds were quite different from today's, with thick layered mattresses, ornate four-poster frames, and luxurious textiles. These beds were not just for sleeping, but were also important symbols of wealth and social standing.

Beds in the 1800s came in a wide variety of styles and materials. Wood was the most common material used, with options like pine, birch, mahogany, rosewood, and walnut. Many were simply constructed, while others featured ornately carved details, such as the lavish Louis XV style beds with tall headboards and foot boards.

Iron and brass beds also became increasingly common during this time period. These were often elaborately shaped and decorated, with intricate metalwork creating scallops, rails, frames, and other ornate designs. Some had canopies or headboards made of wood as well.

For the wealthy, beds were true showpieces. They might feature silk canopies, linens, lace, fringe, ribbons, and tassels to create an opulent, Regency-style look. Poorer families, on the other hand, would have had more basic wooden beds, sometimes even ingenious designs like the space-saving Murphy bed or the swing bed that could be hung from the ceiling.

To sum up, 1800s beds ranged from the simple and functional to the lavishly ornate, reflecting the wide economic and social divides of the era. Whether wood, iron, brass, or a combination, beds from this time period were often works of craftsmanship in their own right.

The typical 1930s bed was a full-size frame, often made of hardwood materials like walnut, maple, or oak. Many featured elegant, geometric headboard designs with sleek lines and subtle curves, reflecting the Art Deco influence popular at the time. In addition to the full-size bed, some households also had queen-sized beds, though these were less common.

Headboards were a key focal point, sometimes featuring intricate patterns, inlays, or decorative metalwork in bronze, brass, nickel, or other metals. The bed frames themselves were often simply constructed, without elaborate detailing, allowing the headboard to take center stage. Alongside the bed, 1930s bedrooms often included other matching furniture pieces like dressers, nightstands, and vanities, continuing the Art Deco design themes.

Accessories like Witney wool blankets, handmade area rugs, and quilts were common to add warmth and texture to the space. During this period, the home interior was heavily influenced by the "modern" design aesthetic championed in publications like Ideal Home and Modern Home magazines. Bedrooms aimed to create a cozy, comfortable environment, with features like fireplaces, rocking chairs, and front porches providing a sense of domestic tranquility.

To wrap things up, 1930s beds embodied the streamlined, geometric Art Deco style, with a focus on the headboard as the centerpiece. These beds, along with complementary furnishings, helped define the modern domestic aesthetic of the era.

Yes, it was indeed common for couples to sleep in separate beds in the 1960s. This practice was influenced by various factors such as health concerns, societal norms, and personal preferences. During this period, separate beds were associated with modernity, cleanliness, and the preservation of individual space within a marriage.

In terms of health, separate beds were often recommended to prevent the transmission of diseases and maintain overall hygiene. Some doctors even suggested that sharing a bed allowed the stronger sleeper to "rob" the vitality of the weaker one. Additionally, separate beds were considered a means to reduce the risk of disease transmission, particularly during the Victorian era when fears of immorality and contagion were prevalent.

From a societal perspective, separate beds were seen as a symbol of status and wealth. Having multiple sets of bedding indicated financial stability, as laundry services were costly and required significant resources. Moreover, separate beds were a fashionable choice for middle-class households in the 1930s, reflecting progressive values and modern lifestyles.

In the end, the decision to sleep in separate beds remains a matter of personal preference, taking into account individual needs and circumstances. While some couples prefer separate beds for improved sleep quality and reduced disruptions, others worry about the impact on their romantic relationship. We recommend considering your own preferences and priorities to determine the best sleeping arrangement for your relationship.

Beds in the 1970s had a distinct style that embodied the bold, eclectic design aesthetic of the era. Wooden beds were often made from darker woods like oak or featured a dark wood veneer, giving them a richer, more rustic look compared to the lighter woods that became popular in later decades. Plush velvet beds also grew very popular, especially in the late 70s, with common color choices including mustard yellow, deep brown, and rich purple tones.

Headboards were an important design element and were almost always made of wood or had a cushioned, upholstered look. The headboards helped anchor the bed as the focal point of the room. Overall, 70s beds had a more substantial, statement-making presence compared to the sleeker, more minimalist bed designs that would emerge in subsequent eras. The beds were meant to be a bold, eye-catching centerpiece that set the tone for the rest of the 70s-inspired bedroom.

• When recreating a 70s bedroom look today, you can find modern beds that capture this vintage aesthetic - think light wood, grey fabric, or even metal frames to balance the retro vibe.
• Be sure to pair the bed with other 70s-inspired furnishings and decor to complete the groovy, eclectic feel.

All things considered, if you're looking to create a 70s-inspired bedroom, focusing on the right bed as the centerpiece is key. We recommend exploring modern options that capture the bold, eclectic spirit of the era while balancing it with more contemporary elements.

The largest king size bed available today is the Alaskan King mattress. Measuring an impressive 108" x 108" (274.32 cm x 274.32 cm), the Alaskan King is the biggest mattress size on the market.

The key details about the Alaskan King are:

• It measures a massive 9 feet by 9 feet, providing an incredible amount of sleeping space. This is the equivalent of two extra-long twin (XL) mattresses side-by-side, plus an additional 28 inches of length.
• The Alaskan King is perfect for those who need the ultimate in sleeping comfort and space, such as families, co-sleeping arrangements, or simply those who love to sprawl out. The extra-large size can accommodate multiple sleepers, pets, and even taller individuals.
• While you won't find Alaskan King mattresses at your typical mattress retailer, they are available for purchase from specialty online stores. These oversized mattresses often require custom-made bed frames and bedding.

To sum up, for those seeking the ultimate in sleeping space and comfort, the Alaskan King is truly the largest king size bed you can get. Its massive 9' x 9' dimensions provide unparalleled room to sprawl out and enjoy an incredibly restful night's sleep.