Low Bed vs High Bed: What’s the Ideal Bed Height?

When you’re shopping for new furniture, there are many different numbers floating around in your head. Room size, number of cushions, various widths and lengths, weight of a table, number of steps it will have to be carried up…the list is endless.

 

While you probably don’t need another thing to consider, the height of your bed should be on your list. Not only is it relevant for finding other things like mattresses, sheets, and under-bed storage (or not), but it’s also worth thinking about for your health and the health of anyone else who might be using the bed. Read on to learn the differences between low and high bed height, which is best for you, and more.

 

What Is Standard Bed Height?

 

The average bed height for an adult is about 25 inches from the ground to the top of the mattress. But how high should a bed be? Ideally, you should be able to sit on the edge of your bed and comfortably reach the floor with your feet. However, what that exact height is depends on how tall you are! Other factors like age, health, pets, and room size should be considered.

 

What is a low-profile bed?

 

There isn’t a specific height that defines a low-profile bed. However, low-profile beds are typically slat-style, where you place a mattress directly on the frame without a box frame. These keeps these beds more minimal and streamlined. They’re common in minimalist styles, including Scandinavian and Japandi.

 

How tall is a loft bed or other high beds?

 

While a genuinely lofted bed could be as high as 6.5ft from the ground, loft beds aren’t common unless you’re living in a college dorm, setting up bunk beds for kids, or trying to squeeze into a minimal studio apartment. Unlike a low-profile bed, the height of a “high” bed can vary based on your size, but it often has a box spring that increases the measurement from the floor.

 

Low Beds: Pros and Cons

 

Pro: Low-profile beds take up less space.

 

Low-profile beds, as the name suggests, take up a smaller area. They’re perfect for rooms with low ceilings or smaller overall area and can help cut down on visual clutter.

 

Con: Low-profile beds have less storage space.

 

While less space under the bed means room for fewer monsters, it also means less space for your winter coats, surprise birthday gifts, and anything else you like to shove out of sight. That means you may have to utilize external storage, like a larger dresser.

 

Pro: A low bed can be easier to get into.

 

If you’re concerned with your ability to get into your bed, a lower bed could be better for you, as you won’t have to lift yourself up into it. Additionally, if you have pets and want them to easily get in and out of your bed, a lower bed will accommodate their smaller size.

 

Con: Low beds can be more challenging to get out of.

 

While falling into a low bed may be easier than climbing, low beds can be more difficult to get out of, especially if you tend to be stiff in the morning. A mattress that is very close to the ground may require more of a squatting motion to stand up from.

 

High Beds: Pros and Cons

 

Pro: Higher beds leave more room for style.

 

A higher bed has the potential to be more decorative: think sleigh beds and beds with built-in lights, shelves, or drawers. Elevated beds may also have more appealing headboards and designs or allow you to utilize a stylish bed skirt.

Con: Higher beds take up more space.

 

Higher beds have an overall larger appearance, making your room seem smaller. This is especially true if you have low ceilings – too high of a mattress could make you feel like you will hit your head! You may be limited to smaller bedside tables if you can reach them!

 

Pro: Higher beds have more under-bed storage.

 

Christmas tree storage? Halloween costumes? Dirty laundry? Cram it under there! Higher beds typically have more clearance between the floor and the bottom of the bed, giving you room to discretely hide bulky or unsightly items that may not fit in a closet. They also make great hiding spots for shy kitties or those with a taste for swatting at human ankles!

 

Con: High beds may be difficult to get into.

 

A bed that towers off the ground may require some dexterity to climb onto, especially if it’s piled high with pillows and blankets. Your pets may need a lift to get in (and possibly out), and you may require a step stool to get in yourself.

 

Pro: High beds can be easier to get out of…sometimes.

 

A high bed won’t require lifting yourself off the ground in the morning, which can be easier to maneuver. However, this can also be a con, especially if you struggle with balance – your feet may not touch the floor when you swing your legs over, requiring you to plop onto the ground or step onto a stool.

 

No Matter the Size of Your Space, CORT Furniture Rental is a Great Fit!

 

When shopping for a new bed, the possible combinations of frames and mattresses are almost endless. The ideal height of your bed is as unique as you are and dependent on many factors, but at the end of the day, comfort is critical.

Even in a temporary or transitional living situation, getting a great night’s sleep and having a functional living space is critical to your well-being. Don’t settle for being uncomfortable just because your time in that space is limited! 

With CORT Furniture Rental, you don’t have to compromise between quality and convenience. You can customize your furniture rental package to fit your personal style and needs. After you design your package and set a delivery date, you can sit back and relax! Not only will CORT deliver your new furnishings, but we’ll also set them up for you. When it comes time for you to move out, simply set a pick-up date, and we’ll take care of the rest. Get started online or at your local CORT showroom today!

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