Headboards can serve as a stylish backdrop to your bedding and even provide added comfort and support to your bed. Choosing the right size headboard can affect its visual appeal and function in your space, so here’s how to ensure you find the right fit.

How to Measure a Headboard

Before you buy a headboard, it’s important to measure your space to ensure you find one that will fit. Use a metal tape measure and record your measurements that you can reference later. While shopping, keep in mind that headboards are measured by their height, width, and depth.

Step 1: Measure the Width

Use a tape measure to find the width of your existing bed frame or mattress. A headboard often extends past the mattress, so measuring the base of your bed will give you a better idea of which headboard size will fit best.

Step 2: Measure the Height

Measure from the floor to your desired height. Make sure to account for any possible obstructions, like windows or architectural features, that could limit the height of your headboard. Ideal headboard height can vary based on mattress thickness or style preference, but as a general rule of thumb, headboards should not be taller than the length of your bed.

Tip!

Use painter’s tape to outline what the headboard height may look like.

Step 3: Measure the Depth

Lastly, you may need to measure the depth available for your headboard.

Headboard Sizes

(Shop this image: rattan headboards, pink throw pillows, gray coverlets, and wicker nightstands)

While headboards are designed to fit standard bed sizes, their dimensions will vary by design. The size of your headboard depends on many factors – such as the size of your bed, height of your ceilings, positions of windows, and aesthetic preference.

Height

Standard headboards are typically 45" – 65" tall, though this can vary depending on your preference. Lower headboards complement a minimalistic, modern style while something taller will make a statement and work well in rooms with higher ceilings.

Typically, headboards get slightly taller in proportion to their width to give them a balanced look. For example, twin-size headboards extend 10" – 14" above the mattress, whereas king-size headboards can be closer to 60" taller than the mattress.

When choosing the height of your headboard, keep in mind the height of your bed frame and the depth of your mattress. If you have an extra-thick mattress, you might opt for a taller headboard so it isn’t covered up. Or, if you have a thinner mattress or low bed frame, you will want a shorter headboard. When in doubt, choose a wall-mounted or adjustable-height headboard so you can customize the placement to fit your bed.

Width

Headboards are designed to fit a bed of the same size, though some people may decide to size up for a more dramatic visual effect. When paired with the intended bed, headboards are typically 0" – 3" wider than the corresponding mattress.

Twin/Twin XL: Though twin and twin XL mattresses are different lengths, their widths are the same, making both equipped for a 39" – 41" wide headboard.

Full/Double: Full-size mattresses are 54" wide, so look for a headboard that is between 54" – 56" wide for a proper fit.

Queen: For a 60" wide queen mattress, choose a headboard that is at least 60" – 62" wide for a balanced look.

King: King beds are the widest mattresses and can be paired with a headboard that is between 76" – 80" wide.

California King: California king beds are slightly longer but narrower than kings, so choose a 72" – 74" wide headboard for this size mattress.

Depth

The depth of your headboard will determine how far out from the wall your mattress will sit. Most headboards have a depth of 2" – 4", though this can vary by style and material. For example, upholstered headboards are usually on the thicker side due to their padding, while bookcase headboards can be 8" – 10" deep to allow for more storage space.

Tip!

Check out our guide Buying a Headboard 101: Headboard Designs for more tips that’ll help you find the right one.

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