2026 is the year of super-sized beds. I've spotted several in all of the most stylish contemporary homes, but the sudden shift in trend had me questioning why. Well, it has to do with making room for bigger spaces, prioritizing absolute comfort, and the evidently evolved role a bedroom plays today.
Plus, it's undoubtedly a great way to sleep better. To better understand why double bed sales are dipping in favor of larger alternatives, let's get into how this bedroom switch-up can change the way you rest.
And if you're already interested in following the trend, but you're wondering where to buy a bed, stay tuned for some options that will look and feel great in your abode.
1. Accommodating for Growth
Sosha Lewis, certified sleep science coach at Sleepopolis, tells me that one of the biggest reasons behind the boom in king-size beds is to accommodate growth.
"Homes and bedrooms are now bigger than they once were," she says. "This allows people to have a larger bed. People are also taller and weigh more than they once did. Therefore, king-size beds are more comfortable."
So, if you're wondering what bed size is best and your bedroom is spacious enough to welcome a king-size addition, this is your sign to choose peaceful sleep sans crowded discomfort.
2. More Room Per Person
Speaking of feeling crowded in a double bed, Sosha explains that couples sleeping in this size are only getting about 27" of space apiece. "That's less than the width of a typical crib mattress," she says.
"With a king-size bed, they will get almost a foot more apiece, around 38" per person. This gives couples more room to stretch out. It also makes co-sleeping with a pet or child so much easier."
If you're on the verge of a sleep divorce, and the sole cause is not having enough room to rest comfortably, then king-size beds might be worth a try.
3. Reduced Price Gap
According to Sosha, king beds were once considered a luxury item. She tells me that the price tags tied to this size were heavy enough to be out of reach of most home budgets.
"However, while rising in popularity with online mattresses, more and more people can now afford king-size beds and all the accessories that go with them," she explains.
For instance, take this gorgeous brown Malone Double End Lift Ottoman Bed from Habitat. The difference in price between the double bed (£450) and the king-size (£490) is only £40.
4. No Longer Restricted to Sleep
Sosha also points out that nowadays, people use their beds for so much more. So contemporary bedrooms are designed to allow for activities besides slumber.
"The bedroom now acts as a space to hang out, read, and watch TV. So it only makes sense to opt for a king-size bed that offers ample room to relax," she says.
While using your bedroom for anything other than rest is a major sleep hygiene red flag, it's almost inevitable in many homes. And rather than cram in on a double bed, upgrading to a king-size makes more sense.
5. King-Size Comfort
Last but certainly least, a clear reason as to why people aren't buying double beds and instead upgrading to king-size is comfort. "I have slept in a king-size bed my entire adult life," says Sosha.
"And I can't imagine sharing a smaller bed with a partner because it would make me feel smothered. And at this point, I would choose to have a king even if I slept by myself every night."
Even if you only ever end up taking up a small portion of a king-size bed, you have the option of starfishing, switching sleep positions, and engaging in elevated bedrot.
Stylish King-Size Beds to Shop
Color: Natural
This beautiful bed from Habitat is a great option if you're keen on a king-size with a chic finish.
Finish: Wood
You can never go wrong with a classic wood frame and this Marna King-Size Bed from HEAL'S is proof.
Fabric: Wendy House Clever Linen
Cloaked in one of the best colors for sleep, this King Snoozeliner Bed from Loaf looks like a cozy option to cuddle into.
If you're considering upsizing to a king bed, then it's worth knowing which type of bed is most comfortable to commit making your bedroom a tranquil space from headboard to foot.
