Many sleepers consider purchasing headboards to provide them with extra support and comfort. Headboards come in several styles and designs, making them the perfect item to decorate your room.

Before you pick your new headboard, you’ll want to make sure the size is compatible with not only your mattress size but your room as well. Some headboards are tall and bulky, so finding the right size will keep your room from feeling cluttered.

In our guide, we’ll teach you how to choose a headboard by looking at headboard dimensions, and we’ll also discuss the different types of headboards available for purchase.

Headboard Width

The width of a standard headboard is 2 to 4 inches wider than the size of your bed frame. In most cases, you need two inches of space on the sides of your bed to properly attach a headboard, so, you’ll want to consider your room size before making your purchase.

It’s best to factor in how much space additional bedroom items, like dressers, footboards and bedside tables will take up to avoid overcrowding. In the chart below, we provide the approximate headboard widths with their compatible mattress dimensions and the recommended room sizes.

a. Twin Bed Headboard Dimensions

For a twin mattress, the standard headboard width is typically around 41 inches (104 cm). Since twin and twin XL mattresses share the same width, a twin headboard will fit both types.

Twin headboards are generally shorter in height, designed to save space and create a balanced look for the smaller bed size.

Width: 41 inches (104 cm)

Recommended room size: 7 x 10 feet (2.13 x 3.05 meters)

b. Full Bed Headboard Dimensions

A headboard for a full-size mattress is usually about 56 inches (142 cm) wide. Like twin headboards, full-size headboards are often kept shorter in height to maintain proportionality and avoid overwhelming the room.

Width: 56 inches (142 cm)

Recommended room size: 10 x 10 feet (3.05 x 3.05 meters)

c. Queen Bed Headboard Dimensions

To fit a queen mattress, the headboard should measure approximately 62 inches (157 cm) wide. A queen headboard can also accommodate a full-size mattress, though this will leave about six inches of extra headboard width on either side.

Once you add sheets, pillows, and bedding, the extra width becomes less noticeable.

Width: 62 inches (157 cm)

Recommended room size: 10 x 10 feet (3.05 x 3.05 meters)

d. King Bed Headboard Dimensions

For a king-size mattress, the headboard needs to be around 80 inches (203 cm) wide. Given the size of the headboard, it’s important to have sufficient room space, ideally at least 12 by 12 feet (3.65 x 3.65 meters), to comfortably fit both the bed and additional furniture like nightstands.

Width: 80 inches (203 cm)

Recommended room size: 12 x 12 feet (3.65 x 3.65 meters)

e. California King Bed Headboard Dimensions

A headboard for a California king mattress should measure approximately 74 inches (188 cm) in width. Since this is one of the largest standard headboard sizes, you’ll want to ensure you have enough wall space to accommodate it.

If desired, you can opt for an extra-wide headboard that spans most of the wall for a more dramatic effect.

Width: 74 inches (188 cm)

Recommended room size: 12 x 12 feet (3.65 x 3.65 meters)

Using Extra-Wide Headboards

Extra-wide headboards are twice as wide as your bed, ranging from 25 to 30 inches. These headboards are usually mounted to a wall instead of attached to your bed. If you need a headboard for wall protection, an extra-wide one may be a good choice.

If you purchase an extra-wide headboard, you should place them in a large room at least 10 feet by 10 feet to keep your space from feeling crowded. It’s also best to use extra-wide headboards with Cal king or king beds.

Headboard Height

The standard headboard height ranges from 14 inches above the top of the mattress (for a short, twin-sized headboard) to 29 inches or more (for a tall, king- or queen-sized headboard). While there are no height requirements for a headboard, a good rule of thumb is to ensure the headboard is shorter than the length of your bed. Headboards that are too tall may affect the sturdiness of the bed, causing it to break or collapse.

Tall Headboards

Tall headboards keep your head from leaning against the wall while you’re sitting in bed. These headboards are 65 to 70 inches tall. They are best used with California king or standard king and some queen bed frames since they accommodate the extra length.

They are particularly well-suited for rooms with high ceilings, as they effectively utilize the vertical space, enhancing the grandeur of a king or California king size bed.

A tall headboard also serves the practical purpose of preventing your head from resting directly against the wall when you’re sitting up in bed. For added comfort, you might want to consider upholstered headboards that provide a bit of cushioning.

These taller headboards typically stand between 65 to 70 inches in height, covering nearly the entire wall and contributing to the overall sophistication of the room.

Low Profile Headboards

Short or low-profile headboards are commonly paired with smaller beds for children, teens, and guests. These headboards are a good fit for a twin, twin xl, or full-size bed and are 10 to 12 inches above the top of your bed. They are an excellent option for a guest bedroom and keep your room looking spacious.

Adjustable Headboards

Adjustable headboards usually include legs that you can move up or down to adjust the height. They are a great option for sleepers who are unsure of the proper headboard height for the beds. Not to mention, they are extremely convenient if you are purchasing a new mattress and do not want to buy a new headboard.

An adjustable headboard is a great choice when you’re uncertain about the ideal height for your room. If you have a large bed in a smaller space, you can lower the headboard to create a more open and spacious feel.

Adjustable headboards are also practical when switching to a thicker or thinner mattress, as they allow you to adapt without needing to purchase a new headboard to match your mattress. This flexibility ensures that your bed maintains both style and function, no matter the changes.

Types of Headboards

Before you choose a headboard, you should consider the type of material that will look best with your bedroom decor. Some headboards may be larger than others, so it may be better to opt for a sleek headboard if you have limited space. In this next section, we look at some of the most popular types of headboards.

Upholstered Headboards

Upholstered headboards have soft padding covered with plush fabrics like velvet or linen. These soft materials provide sleepers comfort and support while they are sitting in bed.

Some upholstered headboards may include buttons, nailhead trim, or welding to create a more eye-catching and elegant style. Additionally, these headboards come in an endless amount of colors and patterns to match with your sheets and bedroom furniture.

Types of Upholstered Headboards

Upholstered headboards come in various designs and styles to add to the overall aesthetic of your bedroom. Below, we outline the most common upholstered headboards available for purchase.

• Freestanding: Freestanding headboards are sold separately from the bed frame. You can attach them to the bed frame, mattress foundations, or the wall. However, these headboards can also stand alone without mounting them to a wall or bed frame.
• Straight: Straight headboards are usually rectangular. These headboards have a simple structure but also feature unique prints or fabric.
• Wood-framed: These are upholstered headboards framed with wood. The fabric doesn’t cover the entire headboard, and the wooden frame is added around the perimeter for decorative purposes.
• Tufted: Tufted headboards have buttons sewn or stapled in rows over the upholstery to create a plush and elegant look.

Metal Headboards

Metal headboards are made with brass metal, wrought iron, brushed aluminum, and stainless steel. They are an affordable option and are favored by sleepers for their sleek designs.

Since metal headboards are a more minimalistic choice, they are a better choice for people with smaller rooms. Some people choose metal headboards to match their bedroom design scheme, but they’re best left in their natural state to prevent chipping.

Metal headboards can provide a variety of looks, from modern and industrial to minimalist or vintage, depending on the design. They tend to be more budget-friendly compared to headboards made of pine, oak, or maple.

Metal headboards are crafted from materials like wrought iron, brass, brushed aluminum, or stainless steel and are available in a wide range of colors including silver, nickel, gold, black, brown, and white. These headboards are commonly paired with platform and bunk beds in all standard sizes, and are sometimes featured with four-poster bed frames as well.

Wooden Headboards

Wooden headboards are one of the most popular bedroom items as they have a versatile and classic look. These headboards cater to various design styles, such as modern, traditional, and rustic. Many people choose headboards with a natural wood finish, while others prefer to paint their headboards to match their design styles and other furnishings.

Typically, wooden headboards are made from pine, oak, and maple. More budget-friendly headboards are manufactured with plywood, but this material is not as durable as others.

Storage Headboards

Storage headboards are usually chosen by people who need extra room for their items. These headboards may be purchased with platform beds and have drawers built-in, so you can put books, photos, clocks, and bedroom décor on the shelves. It’s worth noting that storage headboards are bulky items, so you need plenty of space to accommodate them.

Why Should You Consider Using a Headboard?

Headboards not only enhance the style and elegance of your bedroom but also offer practical benefits that improve comfort and functionality.

Available in various materials, colors, and designs, they can complement any décor while serving as a focal point. Beyond aesthetics, headboards provide support for sitting upright in bed, prevent pillows from slipping off, and help maintain a cozy sleep environment by insulating from cold walls.

They also act as a protective barrier, preventing wear and tear on your walls and bedding, making them a valuable addition to any bedroom setup.

Do You Have to Attach a Headboard to the Bed Frame?

While many headboards are designed to be attached to a bed frame with bolts or screws, this is not always necessary. These frame-mounted headboards offer a secure and stable option, often providing a classic, timeless aesthetic to your bedroom.

However, alternatives such as freestanding and wall-mounted headboards are also available, both of which eliminate the need for attachment to the bed frame.

As discussed above, freestanding headboards are standalone pieces that sit behind the bed without requiring attachment to the frame or wall. This style is perfect for those who desire flexibility in their bedroom design or frequently rearrange their furniture.

Freestanding headboards are also versatile, as they can be used with any bed frame or mattress size, making them an attractive option for those who may switch out their bed setup over time.

As the name suggests, wall-mounted headboards are installed directly onto the wall and don’t require any connection to the bed frame. They offer a sleek, modern aesthetic and can be a great space-saving solution, especially in smaller bedrooms.

While wall-mounted headboards can elevate the style of your space, it’s important to note that they may require professional installation. They also might not be as adaptable to various bed frame or mattress sizes as other types of headboards.

If you prefer a traditional headboard that attaches to your bed frame, make sure it’s compatible with both your bed frame and mattress size before making a purchase.

Some unique bed setups, such as antique or custom-sized frames, may pose a challenge when finding a suitable headboard. In such cases, a freestanding or wall-mounted option may offer a more convenient solution and avoid the need for custom sizing.

For a budget-friendly and creative alternative, some people opt to paint the appearance of a headboard directly onto the wall. This DIY approach allows for artistic expression, eliminates the cost of purchasing a headboard, and saves you from the task of installation, while still achieving a personalized bedroom look.

How to Select the Perfect Headboard for Your Bedroom

Now that you’re familiar with the typical headboard sizes and dimensions, it’s time to apply that knowledge and pick the right one for your bedroom. Here’s a detailed, step-by-step guide to help you make the best choice:

Ensure It Fits Your Bed: Start by identifying your bed size. Is it a twin, full, queen, king, or California king? The headboard should match your bed’s width precisely, as outlined in the headboard size and dimension guide we covered earlier.

Assess Your Room’s Dimensions: Measure your bedroom space, paying attention to ceiling height and available wall area. These figures will help you choose a headboard size that integrates perfectly into your room, as explained in the previous section.

Align It with Your Design Aesthetic: Consider the look and feel you want for your room. Whether your style is modern, classic, cozy, or eclectic, your headboard should complement that vibe. Refer to the headboard size chart to ensure it complements your aesthetic preferences.

Pick the Right Material: Explore the different materials available, such as wood, metal, or upholstered fabric. Choose one that not only enhances your room’s design but also aligns with how much maintenance you’re willing to commit to, as discussed previously.

Determine the Ideal Height: Decide on the height of your headboard based on your bed size and room proportions. It should provide visual balance and contribute to the comfort of the space without overwhelming the room.

Look for Functional Features: If space-saving solutions are important to you, consider headboards with built-in shelves or storage compartments. These practical features can help you keep your room organized, especially if you’re dealing with limited space.

Set a Realistic Budget: Before starting your headboard search, establish a budget. As you shop, keep this financial limit in mind to ensure you find something that meets your aesthetic and functional needs without breaking the bank.

Evaluate Cleaning and Maintenance Requirements: Each material type has different cleaning needs, so pick one that fits your lifestyle. This will help ensure your headboard stays in great shape over time with minimal effort.

Seek Recommendations and Reviews: Don’t hesitate to read online reviews or ask friends and family who have recently bought headboards for advice. Their insights can offer valuable perspectives that will assist you in making an informed decision.

FAQS

How do you fix a gap between a mattress and a headboard?

One of the best ways to fix the gap between a mattress and a headboard is to block it by using mattress wedges. These products are made with foam and should be placed between the headboard and mattress/box spring to eliminate the gap. Repositioning your headboard and frame may also help fill the extra space.

Adjust the frame to be wider than the headboard by unhooking it in the middle and widening it. Then push the frame back against the headboard. Lastly, add the box spring and mattress and push them against the headboard as well. Sometimes making these small adjustments to your items keeps your headboard in alignment.

Can you put a headboard on an adjustable base?

A headboard can easily be attached to an adjustable bed base. Purchase high-quality headboards specifically designed for adjustable bed frames to ensure these items are compatible. However, if you choose to buy a headboard that is not intended for an adjustable frame, you’ll also want to purchase brackets, bolts, and hooks to match your base.

Is it necessary to use a headboard?

Deciding whether or not you need a headboard depends on your personal preference. Some sleepers like to use headboards to keep their pillows on their beds or give their bedrooms a more luxurious look. Others may prefer not to use headboards to save space since they are pretty bulky. Additionally, headboards are expensive, so individuals may forgo this purchase to save money.

What is the average price for a good headboard?

Headboard attachment prices range from $150 to $1000. Basic headboards are usually more affordable for shoppers, while headboards with luxurious designs or technologies like lighting come with a higher price tag. When looking at budget-friendly items, it’s best to steer clear of items built with cheap or flimsy material. These items are prone to becoming worn down or easily damaged.

What size should a headboard be?

The size of a headboard should align with the size of your mattress for an ideal fit. Typically, twin, full, queen, king, and California king headboards are either as wide as the corresponding mattress or slightly wider by about 2 to 4 inches. The standard height of a headboard can range between 14 to 58 inches, depending on the size of the bed.

For instance, a headboard for a twin bed may measure around 41 inches in width and 14 inches in height, while a headboard for a king-size bed could be approximately 80 inches wide and 58 inches tall. The thickness of a headboard can vary from 2 to 10 inches based on its design.

Can a full-size headboard be used for a queen bed?

Since a full-size mattress is 6 inches narrower than a queen-size mattress, a full-size headboard will not properly fit a queen bed frame. The mounting holes on a full-size headboard won’t align with those on a queen frame, which is crucial for attaching them securely.

Full headboards are generally around 56 inches wide, while queen headboards are typically 62 inches wide.

How should you measure a headboard?

To get the most accurate measurement for a headboard, use a tape measure to measure the width of your bed frame, rather than the mattress, as the mattress can sometimes be narrower than the frame. This will give you the correct dimensions for selecting the right-sized headboard.

Can you use a headboard without a bed frame?

Most headboards require you to attach them to the wall behind your bed frame or the bed itself. However, some free-standing headboards will stand on their own and rest between the bed and the wall, without a need to mount them, like bookcases or storage headboards. Free-standing headboards do not come with hardware or pre-drilled holes, so setting them up tends to be easier.

What are some ways to reduce the height of a headboard?

There are creative methods you can use to make a headboard appear shorter. Arranging pillows and comforters strategically can visually reduce its height. Another option is to add taller pieces of furniture to the room, creating the illusion of a shorter headboard.

If you prefer a more permanent solution, you can shorten the legs of the headboard, then reattach it to the bed frame or mount it on the wall at your desired height. Wall-mounted or frame-mounted headboards also allow for flexible height adjustment.

Can headboards be recycled or upcycled?

Yes, headboards can often be recycled or upcycled, depending on their materials. Wooden headboards can be sanded down and repainted to give them a fresh look, while upholstered headboards can be re-covered with new fabric. Recycling or upcycling old headboards is not only an eco-friendly option but also offers a fun DIY opportunity to refresh your room.

Conclusion

Finding the right headboard size is essential to your comfort at bedtime. If your headboard is too big or too tall, your bedroom may feel cluttered. Furthermore, headboards that are not compatible with your bed dimensions may cause damage to your mattress and even your bedroom walls.

It’s important to remember headboards come with a pretty high price tag. There are affordable options, but it’s a good idea to steer clear of flimsy ones as they may break easily. By choosing the correct headboard board size initially, you’ll avoid any bedroom inconveniences and save money in the long run.