September 17, 2020, 9:02 am | Read time: 3 minutes
When people think of a French bed, they often imagine romantic togetherness in the bedroom. This bed size offers several advantages, but it also has some drawbacks compared to the traditional double bed. Find out more here.
The defining feature of the French bed is its width, which exceeds that of a narrow single bed, providing space for two people without needing to place two separate mattresses side by side. It consists of a single wide mattress, enhancing the comfort and convenience for those lying on it. With a French bed, the gap between mattresses, known as the “visitor’s gap,” is eliminated, which can sometimes be bothersome. The continuous sleeping surface creates a flat area, which many find very pleasant and practical.
How Big Is a French Bed?
Essentially, a French bed, similar to a double bed, is a bed with a width that exceeds the 100-centimeter-wide single bed. Theoretically, it starts at 120 centimeters, which might not be very comfortable for two people lying side by side. The term “King Size” has become common for widths starting at 180 centimeters. All measurements in between can be considered typical for a French bed. The most requested widths are 140 and 160 centimeters, with the length following the bed standard of 200 centimeters. However, for those who want to go beyond this, the selection becomes noticeably limited.
Also of interest: Queen Size and King Size – What’s the Difference?
Should You Choose One or Two Mattresses for a Double Bed?
How Big a Bed Should Be at Minimum
French Bed – Advantages and Disadvantages
The obvious advantage is clear, but there are also disadvantages. Movements of one person can transfer to the other side of the bed. This can become quite uncomfortable, especially with cheap foam mattresses. A spring or latex mattress absorbs movements much better, without distributing them almost undamped across the entire surface.
Note: Another potential issue could be the sheer size and associated weight of a large mattress. Such a sleeping surface is hardly movable by one person, especially older individuals.
Related: 14 Questions to Ask Before Buying a Bed
The Right Mattress for the French Bed
There’s nothing wrong with lying alone on a French bed, as it offers significantly more relaxation than a single bed. However, if you want to use it with someone else, you must agree on a shared mattress. This can be challenging or require compromises, especially if the mattress is shared by two people of very different weights. Having one side softer than the other is not an option here. Thus, the advantages that initially seem prominent may diminish.