Headboards
When it comes to headboards, "size really does matter," as well as access around the sides of the bed. Factors to consider when evaluating your headboard project are: Minimal clear space, i.e., to all sides of the bed, is recommended to be from 24 to 36 inches, for access and movement. Adding "items" to your bed makes everything "relative" (especially if they’re coming over), you should add three inches to "each side" to allow for bedding, such as blankets, comforter, and/or duvet. The length of the bed can be extended anywhere from 4 to 12 inches, depending upon the style, and the addition of a footboard.
Headboard heights still vary, depending upon preferences in elevation; standard elevation to the top of the mattress is approximately 23 to 29 inches with a box spring. The recommended minimal heights for various bed sizes are: Twin, 14 inches; full and queen, 16 inches, and king, 18 inches. You may want to increase the height if you have multiple pillows and/or intend to sit up and read a book or watch TV.
For your convenience listed below are average bed sizes:
Twin - 38-39 x 75 inches
Extra –long Twin - 38 -39 x 80 to 82 inches
Double/Standard/Full Size - 54 x 75 to 82 inches
Queen - 60 x 80 to 82 inches
King/Eastern King - 76 -78” x 80 to 82 inches
California/ Western King - 72 x 84 inches
