How to Keep Split King Mattresses Together: 7 Tips

August 28, 2024 | Casper Editorial Team

Fact checked by Jonathan Eilenberg, CPE

To keep a split king mattress together, all you need to do is stabilize it with tools like non-slip pads, protect it with products like mattress toppers, and choose a long-lasting, quality mattress.


The split king bed may well be mattress royalty. Its construction marries ample space and customization — for couples who sleep together, it’s a match made in heaven.

The defining feature of a split king mattress size is the cleft down the middle, which divides the bed into two twin XL mattresses. If you have a well-made split king mattress, you shouldn’t feel too worried about the two twin mattresses coming apart. That said, most every type of mattress can be prone to shifting in the night — and over time. 

Knowing how to keep split king mattresses together requires only a few simple, strategic interventions: stabilizing, protecting, and choosing a high-quality mattress. By taking these steps, you’ll achieve more security and minimum slippage to get your best night’s rest yet.

Step 1: Secure the Legs

Let’s take it from the top — or, in your bedding’s case, the bottom. Your bed’s mattress foundation is crucial for keeping those two parts of your split king-size mattress snug. 

With that, your first step is to ensure your bed frame is secure. First, tighten the bolts on your foundation until your frame moves very little — there should be almost no wobbles when you mount or dismount your bed. For extra coverage, you can use furniture cups to stabilize each leg.

Step 2: Use Non-Slip Pads

Non-slip pads (also called “mattress grippers”) are a fine way to add more stability at a low price point1. These are layered on top of your bed’s foundation and below your mattress to minimize slippage. Mattress grippers are:

  • Made of rubber (usually) – Rubber helps introduce some friction between your foundation and your mattress.
  • Trimmable – Meaning, you can take a pair of scissors and use them to perfectly align your foundation and mattress.

Some people aren’t big fans of the rubbery smell some non-slip pads have. If that’s true for you, try checking out some foam options, which tend to be fairly odorless.

Step 3: Install a Bed Bridge

If your split king bed has been causing “princess and the pea syndrome” (i.e., you can feel the split beneath you, and it messes with your sleep), consider getting a bed bridge. A bed bridge is precisely what it sounds like: an accessory, typically made of foam, that bridges the gap between the two twin segments of your split king.

You’ll get the best results if you have two people to install your bed bridge. You’ll need to:

  1. Wedge your split king as close together as possible.
  2. Then, insert the bed bridge between them.

Many people find that bed bridges enhance comfort in addition to providing extra security.

Step 4: Connect the Frames

Some split king bed frames come with connectors that let you adjoin the two frames, forming a single, unified base. If your split king bed didn’t include them, you can purchase them separately. 

Not only will adjoining the frames help keep your split mattresses snug, but they’ll also create a more secure sleeping surface.

Step 5: Add a Mattress Topper

Most people think of mattress toppers as a luxury — a bedtime bonus, if you will. But just as they can adjust a mattress’ surface to be softer or firmer, mattress toppers also add extra weight to your sleep setup. For split king sleepers, that’s often the secret ingredient for enhancing bed frame security.

Beyond stabilizing your bed setup, mattress toppers can also2:

  • Extend the life of your mattress – By alleviating some of the nightly stress caused by your body weight, toppers may help your mattress live a longer, more fulfilling life. In turn, you’ll save money on replacements without sacrificing your quality of rest.
  • Improve your bedroom hygiene – Mattresses can get dirty over time, whether by acquiring an odor or stains (we’re looking at you, midnight snackers). With a topper, dust, debris, and all else will meet another layer before they reach your mattress.

If you’re concerned adding all these layers will compromise the coolness of your bedding, fear not! The Casper Comfy Mattress Topper’s foam design is built to aerate, helping to transmit heat into your environment (and out of your bed) so you stay cool at night.

Step 6: Consider Adding a Headboard

Don’t have a headboard already? Now might be an excellent time to consider adding one.

Headboards can be attached to your bed frame to stabilize your frame when you justify the mattress against it. Not only will your mattress feel steadier, but it’ll be easier to maintain alignment — and, even better, make your quarters even more handsome.

(Psst! Casper attachable headboards make installation a breeze while adding alignment and good looks to your bedding. Use it with your existing bed frame or your Casper favorite and simplify your bed’s structure with minimum effort.)

Step 7: Make Time for Maintenance Checks

Periodic check-ups can go a long way when it comes to keeping your split king mattress together. Some care tips include:

  • Inspecting your bed frame – From time to time, it’s a smart idea to check out your bed frame to screen for loose hardware. Keeping them tuned up should help your bed frame stay secure.
  • Reposition your mattress – No matter how much traction they have, most mattresses tend to shift around with use. It can help to get in the habit of repositioning them when you make your bed. You can also take the opportunity to flip your mattresses, which may help give them more longevity. 
  • Clean your mattress grippers – All parts of your bedding can get dirty over time, including your toppers, non-slip pads, and other accessories. Cleaning these regularly helps prevent build-up or dirt from accumulating, which may compromise their ability to grip.

Tips for Getting the Most Out of a Split King Mattress

We get it — mattress maintenance may not be a top priority for most. But with a bit more insight into how to choose and care for your split king model, don’t be surprised if you see a noticeable difference in your sleep.

#1 Opt for Foam (Rather Than Springs)

Foam mattresses are generally considered a better option for split mattress styles, for a few reasons:

  • They’ve got more give – Foam is more forgiving than springs are, contouring to your figure and weight. Because they limit motion transfer, you’ll likely find the split less noticeable than you would with a spring mattress.
  • They’re usually quieter – If you’ve ever slept on a spring mattress, you may be well aware of their signature squeaks. Sometimes, spring split king beds can defeat their intended purpose: creating the most serene possible environment for sleep partners. Learn more about foam vs spring mattresses in the Casper blog. 

(BTW: All three Casper mattress styles are made with foam to ensure you’re supported no matter which size or style bed you choose).

#2 Flip Your Mattress

How often should you rotate your mattress? It’s recommended you rotate and flip your mattress about every 6 months. This can help offset unnecessary wear, sagging, or lumpiness. For split king mattress owners, mattress flipping is especially crucial: it helps ensure both sides of the bed get equal use.

#3 Choose Premium-Quality Bedding

If your split king mattress is a perfect fit for your needs, you can optimize the benefits by investing in high-quality bedding sets, like:

Quality bedding doesn’t just feel cozier — it also lasts longer. When it comes to fitted sheets, keep an eye out for those designed specifically for split king mattresses. These promise a snug fit and less budging while you sleep.

#4 Look Into Adjustable Bed Frames 

Adjustable bed frames can optimize the advantages of having a split king mattress. These are designed to:

  • Support independent movement on either side of the bed
  • Provide luxe benefits like massage or an electronics/charging hub
  • Let you and your partner adjust the positions of each mattress as you’re most comfortable

Whether you want to prop up your feet, your head, or levitate with a Zero Gravity bed, split king adjustable bed frames offer more flexibility and support than ever.

#5 Don’t Skimp on Cleaning

Cleaning your mattress isn’t strictly a matter of averting those pesky (and very mysterious) stains. It extends a mattress’s lifespan and promotes a hygienic sleep environment. 

When considering how to clean a mattress, it might look like:

  • Vacuuming it regularly to get rid of dust, debris, and allergens
  • Using a gentle detergent to spot-treat any stains
  • Letting your mattress rest outside to aerate it and dispel any accumulated moisture

Using a Casper mattress protector (one for each side of your split king bed) can also help limit your mattress’ noticeable wear and tear.

Care for Your Mattress with Casper

In the world of split king beds and bedding, Casper’s split king-size mattress reigns supreme. All three of Casper’s signature mattresses are available in the split king style: the One, the Hybrids, and the Maxes.

No matter which you choose, you and your bedmate will enjoy the comfort and customizability you only dreamed possible. From zoned spinal support to unmatched airflow, you can personalize each side of the bed with the properties you need to get some decent shut-eye. ​​Finding the right mattress for both of you has never been easier.

Discover your perfect match (mattress-wise — you two are great together) by shopping the Casper split king bed size options today.

Sources: 

  1. Sleepopolis. Best Mattress Grippers. https://sleepopolis.com/reviews/best-mattress-grippers/
  2. Tom’s Guide. What does a topper do for a mattress? We explain. https://www.tomsguide.com/features/what-does-a-mattress-topper-do