How To Easily Find a Comfortable Replacement For Your RV King Mattress
(Camp Addict does NOT accept payment from any company to review or endorse their products.)
By Kelly Beasley
Going on an adventure with your family in your brand-new RV allows you to enjoy the comforts of home no matter where you travel.
From a kitchen sink to your own king-sized mattress, there's nothing like having your familiar little pod with you at each destination.
But you want and need your RV king mattress to be very comfortable.
The regular mattress that came with your RV likely doesn't provide a good night's sleep.
So how do you replace it? And where do you get a new King sized RV mattress? Does it have to be made for a recreational vehicle?
We cover all of that and more right here, so let's dive in!
Is Your RV King Mattress Comfortable?
You probably wouldn't be reading this page if you loved your current king-size RV mattress.
So we're guessing you do not like yours.
She's not so comfy.
It's no secret that recreational vehicle manufacturers are notorious for putting cheap RV mattresses into their rigs.
So, you need an upgrade.
If you don't like the feel of your current king RV mattress, then yes, you'd better replace it before you go on your first trip!
If you haven't already, sleep on your camper mattress for a night to assess whether a replacement is necessary.
RV King Mattress Sizes
You may already be familiar with the fact that many RV bed platforms (and mattresses) come in different sizes than regular 'house' mattress sizes.
Not only that but there are some more common sizes with their own names. This doesn't mean that your 'king-sized' RV mattress will fit into any of those standards.
Meaning you should ALWAYS measure your current mattress (or better, measure the platform) to see what the actual dimensions are.
Here are the dimensions for a regular king-sized mattress and the 'standard' named RV king mattress sizes:
RV King: 72" x 80"
RV Short King: 72" x 75"
California King: 72" x 84"
Eastern (Regular) King: 76" x 80"
The named 'Eastern King' is the same size as a standard house king.
Funny, they didn't just call it a 'king.' But life is complicated, right?
Also, the California King is the same size as a house California King.
Note that the width of the RV kings are four inches narrow than a regular king-sized bed (but the same width as a California king).
Where to Buy a King RV Mattress
Now that you know the dimensions of your RV mattress king edition (sounds fancy when worded that way!), you know if you'll need a custom-sized RV mattress, or if you can buy the RV King, California King, or Eastern King (AKA any regular King mattress).
To buy these pre-sized mattresses, plenty of manufacturers now make RV mattresses.
Purchase RV Mattresses Here:
Can You Put a Regular King Sized Mattress In an RV?
Yes you can put a regular sized king mattress into a camper, IF your RV bed platform is the same size as a regular king-sized mattress.
In the RV world, such a mattress size has a name: Eastern King.
But you can put ANY regular 76 x 80 king mattress into your RV.
It doesn't need to be made from any particular material or whatnot.
You might need to check the depth of the mattress in your RV.
If you have any shelf or a slide that goes over it, you must not get a mattress that"s higher if it impedes the mattress from being there or the slide from coming in.
RV King Mattress Material Types
Like any other mattress, RV mattresses have many options regarding the materials it's made of.
Common materials are:
- Memory foam
- Foam
- Latex
- Gel
- Innerspring
Each one has its own unique feel.
Best you try as many types as possible in a showroom in your hometown to determine which you'll like the best.
Memory Foam Mattress
Memory foam is a popular type of foam. It's also dust-mite resistant and keeps you from feeling your partner roll over in bed. (Finding the perfect RV mattress for couples.)
This type of foam tends to 'hold' you in a position and keeps you sort of 'snug.'
That said, the product runs hot. Because of the cradling effect and the density of the foam, campers complain about getting hot.
But if you tend to feel cold when you sleep, it may be just right for you.
If you get memory foam infused with gel beads, it will sleep cooler.
Latex and Polyurethane Foams
There are many different foams often used in latex mattresses these days, and they make for a very forgiving mattress.
Some are built with memory foam on the top and other layers of more forgiving foam or even firmer foam beneath.
There are also natural latex foams and polyurethane foam, latex being much denser than polyurethane foam.
People are primarily familiar with polyurethane foam as the 'egg crate' foam placed on top of innerspring mattresses.
You might find a whole mattress made from it, but it will be extremely cheap, won't last long, and likely not worth buying.
Foam mattresses usually come in different foam layers, with the top layer the most comfortable for the human as it provides the most cushion affect.
Innerspring Mattress
This is probably the one you're most familiar with. Some innerspring mattresses have at least evolved to have pocket coils now.
The pocket coils allow for more individualized support, whereas regular 'old school' innerspring mattress coils are not as forgiving.
Again, this type of mattress is an individual preference.
Gel Mattresses
Gel is usually a product infused into hybrid mattresses, other than being all on its own. It has cooling properties, but it is much more expensive and has a much shorter life span than most other types of mattresses (Less than ten years). (How to choose a cooling RV mattress.)
This is why it's infused rather than used all on its own.
It's also very heavy, which is something most RV owners must watch out for, no matter what kind of mattress you get.
You don't want to go over the GVWR of your vehicle.
Can You Use Regular Blankets And Sheets on King RV Mattresses?
If your mattress fits the regular dimensions of a residential King/Eastern King or California King, sure, those sized sheets and comforters will fit. There is no special RV king sheets in these cases.
Otherwise, you'll need custom sheets, or you'll have to make the sheets you have work, using elastic or other devices made for keeping a fitted sheet more stable/on.
OR, you can make do without sheets. Simply lay a quilt on the mattress, and lay a duvet on top.
Alternate Bedding Solution
One more solution is to get an alternative RV bedding sets such as the Beddy's bedding. It's a fitted sheet, top sheet, and comforter built all-in-one.
Makes it very easy to make the bed and keep it looking nice!
What are the key factors when choosing a King RV mattress?
The most significant things to watch out for are:
- Make sure the thickness of your RV replacement mattress doesn't impede a slide coming in or the mattress fitting into the space.
- Make sure the dimensions of the bed platform (what the mattress sets on) match the dimensions of the new mattress.
- Get a mattress that uses materials you love the feel of.
- Make sure, if it's a heavy RV king mattress, you aren't pushing the weight over the maximum weight of your rig.
Do RV King Mattresses Have a Specific Thickness?
No, there's no specific thickness that comes with all RV king mattresses. They vary depending on what you buy.
Be very careful when buying one that is thicker IF that thicker mattress prevents a slide from coming in.
Or if there's a shelf right above the mattress that will disallow the new mattress to fit.
Both scenarios would be a bummer and won't work.
How To Prevent Your King Mattress From Molding Underneath
Because your RV is probably not kept in a climate-controlled environment most of the time, there's a good chance that your mattress will develop mildew or mold underneath.
Therefore, you should take precautions to prevent this from happening.
Here are a few ways to avoid it:
- Place a venting pad underneath the mattress.
- Place slats underneath the mattress that gives space in between the mattress and the platform.
- Keep your RV in climate-controlled storage.
Where Can I Get A Custom-Sized King Mattress?
There are a few companies that make custom sized mattresses.
Our favorite is Tochta. They make custom sizes as well as funky shapes, such as curved edges or cut-off edges.
Their website is VERY easy to use, and their customer support is stellar. We also love their Utopia mattress (Kelly still raves about hers to this day).
Lastly, they make custom sheets as well as hinged mattresses.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best RV king mattress?
The best RV King mattress is the one that fits your platform and that you love the feel of. The 'best' reviews you'll find on the internet is just another person's opinion (including ours).
What size is an RV king mattress?
There are many different dimensions for an RV king mattress. But the RV 'Eastern King' is the same size as a standard house king size which is 76 x 80.
You can view the other RV king sizes above on this page.
Is An RV King The Same As A Regular King?
No, they are different. An RV king (72" x 80") is four inches narrower than a regular king (76" x 80"). However, an Eastern King is the same as a regular king, both being 76" x 80".
Can you put a king-size bed in an RV?
If the bed platform size (where the mattress sets) in the RV fits a king-size bed (76" x 80") and isn't too thick (deep) for the area, then yes, you can put a king-size bed in your camper.
Where to Buy A King RV Mattress Near Me?
The easiest way to buy a mattress these days is online, honestly.
They almost always come wrapped and shrunken down so that it's easy to ship and unbox.
And if you need an 'RV sized' mattress, it may be hard to find a company near you that makes those sizes or custom sizes.
Google it if you still want to find something near you.
Walmart
Sure, Walmart sells some RV-sized mattresses, but you aren't going to find a showroom where you can test them.
Mattress Firm
Mattress Firm probably has a nearby showroom where you can test. But they don't sell most RV sizes, from the looks of it.
How Much Does a King RV Mattress Cost?
Expect to pay anywhere from $250 (very low-end mattress) upwards of $1500+ for a new RV King mattress.
If you hate your mattress, consider getting an RV king mattress topper if you think it will help the comfort of your currrent mattress.
Mattress toppers cost less than a whole new mattress.
What does CertiPur-US mean?
CertiPur-US is a non-profit certification that ensures your RV mattress is free from nasty chemicals in polyurethane foams.
CertiPur Guarantees:
- Made without ozone depleters
- Made without PBDEs, TDCPP, or TCEP (" Tris") flame retardants
- Made without formaldehyde
- Made without phthalates
- Low VOC emissions
You don't HAVE to get a CertiPur mattress, but it's nice to have the peace of mind if you do.
Conclusion
It's not difficult to get a new King sized mattress for your RV if you don't like your current one.
It's simply a matter of figuring out what type of mattress you like, finding a place to buy one, and putting it into your RV!
You only need to make sure it doesn't make your RV weigh too much (over the GVWR) and that it fits in/on the mattress platform perfectly without impeding slides or anything else.
A simple measurement of your current mattress will tell you the size you need to get and the sheet size.
From there, install the new king mattress and then hit the road and enjoy your home on wheels!
Author: Kelly Beasley
I dedicated myself to living the full-time RV life for over 6.5 years, immersing myself in the unique quirks and joys of the boondocking lifestyle and gaining a wealth of knowledge and experience along the way. In December 2020, my business partner and I made the transition to part-time RVing, but in January 2023, we hit the road once again, this time in our trusty vans. My mission is to help others embrace the RVing lifestyle with confidence and excitement, armed with the knowledge and resources needed to make the most of their adventures. I believe that the more you know, the more you can truly appreciate and enjoy the freedom and flexibility of the open road.
Well, our new rv has the most obscure “king” size bed. The rarest of the rare! Impossible to find sheets for. 70×74. I don’t know why they even call it a king. At most maybe a wide queen? But short! RV manufacturers need to come to an agreement on mattress sizing!
Hi T,
Congratulations on your new RV! But yes, RV mattress sizes are often all over the place, making it difficult to find sheets that fit. You can get custom sheets for your new mattress.
We love Tochta.com for their custom sheets (and mattresses). While a bit pricey, they will fit and will likely last you the duration of your ownership of the RV.
And really, all you need is a custom fitted sheet. The top sheet can be tucked with ease.
Alternatively, you can use sheet ‘suspenders’ to gather the fitted sheet under the mattress if the sheet is too large. These are super cheap and easy to use.
Good luck with your options and enjoy your new adventures!