Nightstands are a key component of your sleeping sanctuary, providing a dedicated space to keep your essentials close at hand. From lamps and books to glasses and alarm clocks, nightstands keep your items organized and within reach.
Consider factors like height, size, and storage capacities to maximize the utility of your nightstand. Follow our buying guide to help you choose the best nightstand for your space.
Before starting to search, ask yourself the following questions:
- What is the total height of the mattress? This should include the bed frame, box spring, mattress pad, etc.
- How much space do I have on each side of the bed?
- What are my storage needs? Consider if you would like a cubby or drawers.
- What’s going on top of my nightstand? Do you need space for lamps, charging stations, books, etc.?
How To Choose the Right Size Nightstand?
1.
Measure the Space on Each Side of Your Bed
Take accurate measurements of the space available on each side of your bed, so your nightstand looks proportional to your bed. Nightstands should be placed within three to six inches from the side of the bed. This allows room for bedding and keeps your nightstand from being jostled.
Here are a few tips on getting the best fit:
Narrow nightstands
Less than 20” wide, these slim styles look best either next to a twin bed or for use in city dwellings where you don’t have as much space.
Standard nightstands
Between 21”- 28” wide, this size is ideal for pairing with full- or queen-sized beds.
Wide nightstands
More than 29” wide, wide nightstands are the most visually balanced when placed next to King or California King beds.
2.
Measure the Height of Your Mattress
Your nightstand should not be too tall or short when aligned with your mattress. Align the top of your mattress with your nightstand or slightly lower. This provides a seamless surface for you to place items.
Low nightstands
Low nightstands are typically less than 23” tall and pair best with low bed frames.
Standard nightstands
Standard nightstands are between 24”- 28” tall and work well with standard beds, which average around 25” tall.
Tall nightstands
Tall nightstands are higher than 30”. These are a good choice for beds with thicker mattress pads or box springs.
3.
Decide the Items You Need on Top of Your Nightstand
The tabletop surface of your nightstand needs to be large enough to hold your bedside items.
Standard nightstands measure between 12”– 30” deep. If you would like to keep large items on your nightstand, or if your table lamp has a large base, choose a nightstand with a deeper depth.
Where to Place Your Nightstand
The right placement of a nightstand should make the room feel finished and proportional rather than busy and cluttered.
Here are a few tips for achieving the perfect placement:
- Place your bed in the middle of a wall with matching nightstands on either side.
- Keep at least three to six inches of space around the bed to allow for bedding.
- Try to allow for one to two feet of space from the edge of the nightstand to the wall.
- If you have a small space, stick with one nightstand. Add symmetry with the addition of a chair or plant.
Popular Nightstand Styles
The style of your nightstand is just as important as its functionality. You want it to be a purchase you love. There are various styles and designs to fit in with any aesthetic. Match your nightstand to your other furniture, or let it stand out by shopping these popular styles.
Modern Nightstands
Geometric in shape, modern nightstands are sleek and come in shades of black, white, or chrome.
Whether you want to top it with a lamp for nighttime reading or a glass of water and an alarm clock to ease your mornings, complement your bed with the perfect nightstand. Get ready to discover your next stylish bedroom addition with our wide and varied selection of nightstands at furniture.com.