How to choose a nightstand
To choose the right nightstand, first measure your bed’s mattress height and the available space beside it. Determine your storage needs, considering drawers or shelves for essentials. Finally, select a style and material that complements your bedroom’s overall decor and existing furniture for both functionality and aesthetic appeal.
Selecting the right nightstand, also known as a bedside table, is crucial for both functionality and aesthetics in your bedroom. It’s the first thing you’ll see when you wake up and the last before you sleep, so it needs to be practical and visually appealing. A well-chosen nightstand can hold your essentials, provide lighting, and offer storage, all while enhancing your room’s design. Get it wrong, and you’ll be reaching too far, bumping into it, or cluttering your space.
The most critical factor is height. Your nightstand should be roughly the same height as your mattress, or no more than 2 inches higher. This ensures that reaching for your phone, lamp, or a glass of water is comfortable and doesn’t require awkward stretching. Measure from the floor to the top of your mattress. If your mattress is on a box spring and frame, this measurement is straightforward. If your mattress is on a platform bed, measure to the top surface of the mattress.
Next, consider the width and depth. You need enough surface area for a lamp, your phone, and perhaps a book or alarm clock, but it shouldn’t overwhelm your bed or the room. A common width for a nightstand is between 15 and 20 inches, but this can vary greatly depending on your bed size and available space. For larger beds, like a king or queen, you might opt for wider nightstands, while a twin bed might suit a narrower option. Measure the space beside your bed to determine the maximum width you can accommodate without it feeling cramped or obstructing walkways. Depth is usually between 15 and 18 inches, ensuring it doesn’t protrude too far into the room.
Storage is another key consideration. Do you need drawers to hide clutter, or are open shelves sufficient for books and decorative items? Some nightstands offer a combination, providing versatility. If you have a lot of items you want to keep off the surface, drawers are essential. Look for smooth-gliding drawer mechanisms and sturdy construction. If you prefer an open look or only need space for a few items, an open shelf or a simple tabletop might suffice. Consider if you need space for charging cables; some nightstands have built-in cable management systems or grommets.
Material and style considerations
The material of your nightstand significantly impacts its durability, style, and price. Solid wood nightstands are the most durable and classic option, offering a timeless appeal. However, they are typically the most expensive. Common woods include oak, maple, cherry, and pine. For a more budget-friendly option, consider nightstands made from engineered wood, like MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard) or particleboard, often finished with veneers or laminate. These can mimic the look of real wood but may be less durable over time.
Metal nightstands offer a modern or industrial aesthetic. They can be sleek and minimalist or more robust and utilitarian. They are generally durable and easy to clean. Glass or acrylic nightstands can create a sense of spaciousness, making them a good choice for smaller rooms, but they can be prone to scratching or smudging. Upholstered nightstands, often covered in fabric or faux leather, add a touch of softness and luxury to the room.
Your nightstand’s style should complement your existing bedroom decor. If your room is modern, opt for clean lines, minimalist designs, and materials like metal or sleek wood finishes. For a traditional or rustic look, choose darker woods, ornate details, or pieces with a more substantial feel. Coastal or bohemian styles might feature lighter woods, natural materials like rattan, or painted finishes. Ensure the nightstand’s design doesn’t clash with your bed frame, dresser, or other major furniture pieces. Consider the hardware, such as drawer pulls and knobs, as these small details can make a big difference.
Placement and practical tips
Once you have chosen your nightstand, proper placement is key. It should sit flush with the side of your mattress, providing easy access. Ensure there’s enough space around it for comfortable movement. If you have a king or queen-sized bed, you’ll likely want matching nightstands on both sides for symmetry and balanced functionality. For smaller beds or if space is limited, a single nightstand on one side might be sufficient.
Think about lighting. If your nightstand will hold a lamp, ensure the surface is large enough to accommodate it comfortably, and that the height allows the light to fall where you need it. Consider the placement of electrical outlets; you don’t want your cords to be a tangled mess or too short to reach. Some nightstands come with integrated charging ports or cable management features that can solve this problem.
When shopping, check the weight capacity of drawers and shelves if you plan to store heavier items. Read reviews to gauge the durability and ease of assembly. If you’re buying online, pay close attention to dimensions and material descriptions. Don’t be afraid to look at different types of furniture, like small chests or accent tables, if they meet your size and storage needs, even if they aren’t specifically marketed as nightstands.
Common Nightstand Buying Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
| Step/Tool | Typical Mistake | How to Avoid It |
|---|---|---|
| Measuring Bed Height | Choosing a nightstand that’s too tall or too short. | Measure the height from the floor to the top of your mattress. Aim for a nightstand height that matches this measurement, plus or minus 2 inches. |
| Assessing Space | Buying a nightstand that’s too wide or deep, making the room feel cramped. | Measure the available space beside your bed. Note the maximum width and depth that will allow comfortable movement and won’t overpower the room. |
| Determining Storage Needs | Getting a nightstand with insufficient storage or too much unnecessary storage. | List the items you need to store (books, phone, medications, etc.) and choose a nightstand with appropriate drawers, shelves, or open space. |
| Considering Material Durability | Opting for a material that scratches easily or doesn’t hold up to daily use. | Consider your lifestyle. If you have kids or pets, choose durable materials like solid wood or metal. For less intensive use, veneers or laminates can work. |
| Matching Bedroom Style | Purchasing a nightstand that clashes with the existing decor. | Identify your bedroom’s primary style and color palette. Select a nightstand that complements, rather than competes with, your bed, dresser, and other furniture. |
FAQ
Do I need two nightstands if I have a queen-size bed?
While it’s traditional and often preferred for symmetry to have two nightstands with a queen-size bed, it’s not strictly necessary. If space is limited on one side, or if your budget is tight, a single nightstand can still be functional. Consider your personal needs and the layout of your room.
What’s the difference between a nightstand and a bedside table?
There is no functional difference; ‘nightstand’ and ‘bedside table’ are interchangeable terms for a small table or cabinet placed beside a bed. The term ‘nightstand’ is more common in American English, while ‘bedside table’ is also widely used.
Can I use a small dresser as a nightstand?
Yes, you can use a small dresser as a nightstand if its dimensions are appropriate for the space and its height aligns with your bed. Ensure it provides the necessary surface area and storage without being too bulky or impeding movement.