If you’re wondering how to choose a nightstand that’s perfect for your bedroom, start by assessing your space and considering the size, style, and functionality that fit your room and needs.
The right nightstand should not only provide easy access to your essentials but also complement the overall look of your bedroom.
Let’s walk through the key things to keep in mind to make sure you pick the best one.
1. Measure Your Space for the Right Dimensions
Start by measuring the space next to your bed. You want to make sure the nightstand fits and matches the size of your bed. Here’s a quick guide:
Height: Measure the height from the floor to the top of your mattress. Your nightstand should be about the same height as your mattress, or just a little taller, to make it easy to grab things from the bed.
- If the nightstand is a few inches taller, it should be within 2 to 4 inches of the mattress top.
Width: Measure the width of the space beside your bed. The wider the bed, the wider the nightstand. A tiny side table next to a king-size bed just won’t look right. Here’s your guide:
- King bed: At least 24 inches wide
- Queen bed: 20 to 26 inches wide
- Twin bed: 17 to 20 inches wide
Depth: Finally, measure for the depth by checking the front edge of where you want the nightstand to sit (next to the bed) to the back edge of the space, like a wall or another piece of furniture. Make sure there’s enough room to move around comfortably without bumping into anything.
Bonus Tip: If you have two twin beds and plan a shared nightstand in between, go for a wider nightstand that fills the space between both beds for balance and easy access.
For more details on the right height for your nightstand, read our article, “How Tall Should a Nightstand Be?”
2. Decide What you Need
Nightstand with Drawers: Rawf8 / Adobe Stock Free / License
Nightstand with Open Storage: Generative Professor / Adobe Stock Free / License
Think about how you’ll use the nightstand and consider what you need close by at night. Do you need storage like drawers or shelves for things like books or a water bottle? Or do you prefer something simple with just a flat surface? Knowing what you need helps you choose the best style for your needs.
Drawers vs. Open Storage
If you like a clutter-free look, nightstands with drawers are perfect. They let you tuck away items like journals, cords, and small essentials so everything stays neat and out of sight.
If drawers aren’t your style, open nightstands create an airy look and make things easy to grab.
My Tip: If your nightstand doesn’t have drawers but you’d like some hidden storage, just drape a small tablecloth or piece of fabric over it. It’ll look cozy and give you a sneaky spot to hide a basket or bin underneath for extra storage.
3. Choose a Style That Complements Your Room
Choosing a color can be fun but tricky. You don’t need to match the color of your nightstand perfectly with your bed. In fact, mixing tones can make the room feel richer and more layered.
Mix, Don’t Match
If your bed is wood, try picking a nightstand in a slightly different wood tone, a contrasting shade like black, or a bold color for a bit of pop.
If you have an upholstered bed, you’ve got plenty of options. A color that matches the color of your bed or a wood tone could work.
Personally, I love a white, minimalist nightstand for a clean, sleek look that keeps things balanced. But if you want a bit of contrast, a bold black nightstand can add a chic touch. Or, you can also go for a warm wood if your room needs to feel cozier.
Nightstands Don’t Have to Match Each Other
You might also be wondering if your nightstands need to match. The short answer is no, but matching nightstands do bring a nice balance to a room.
Just make sure that if you go for mismatched nightstands, their height is fairly close if you’re using table lamps.
4. Pick the Right Material
Wooden Nightstand: Pexels
Transparent Nightstand: Dariusz Jarzabek / Adobe Stock / License
Steel Nightstand: Pickpik
The material of your nightstand affects both its look and durability, so choose one that matches your room’s style and your needs. Here’s a simple guide to help you:
- Wood for warmth and charm: If there’s no wood in your bedroom yet, consider a wooden nightstand to bring in a natural, warm vibe.
- Metal for modern style: If you want a more modern, minimalist look, metal can give your room a sleek, industrial edge. It’s also incredibly durable, making it a great choice if you want something that will last.
- Fabric and wicker for coziness: If you’re going for a softer, more relaxed ambiance, a nightstand with fabric or wicker can add a cozy, textured feel to the room.
- Glass for an airy, open feel: Glass nightstands, especially transparent ones, contribute to an airy, open atmosphere, making small rooms feel more spacious. They can also blend well with other materials, like wood or metal.
- Acrylic for simplicity: Acrylic nightstands are similar to glass in their sleek, minimalist look, but they’re lighter and more durable. Unlike glass, acrylic is less likely to show fingerprints, though it can scratch more easily.
Consider the Finish
Don’t overlook the finish. It can bring your nightstand to life.
A glossy finish gives a nightstand a clean, shiny look, while a matte finish feels more relaxed and subtle. If you’re choosing wood, the natural grain adds beautiful texture and warmth.
Whatever finish you go for, it will make a big difference in how your nightstand blends with the rest of your room.
5. Set Your Budget
Nightstands come in a range of prices, so set a budget that works for you. You can find stylish nightstands under $150, proving you don’t have to break the bank for good design.
If you’re open to investing a bit more, you’ll find high-quality options that are durable while suiting your needs and style. Setting your budget ahead of time helps you focus on the best choices and avoid overspending.
6. Consider Maintenance and Care
Consider how much maintenance you’re willing to commit to. Nightstands made from materials like metal may need regular dusting or occasional polishing.
Other materials, like glass or certain fabrics, can be more prone to fingerprints or stain more easily. Woods with natural finishes may also need conditioning over time to prevent cracking, especially in dry climates.
If you’re after a low-maintenance piece, look for materials such as acrylic, sealed wood, or metal with a matte finish, which are easy to clean and resistant to wear and tear.
7. Test Out Your Choice
If possible, test out the nightstand in person. Open the drawers to check — do they glide smoothly or are they a bit stiff? Tap the surface to feel its sturdiness, and imagine how it would look next to your bed.
If you’re buying online, make sure to read reviews and check for detailed photos to ensure it meets your expectations. Also, don’t forget to check the return policy, just in case the nightstand doesn’t fit once it’s in your space.
Your Bedside Buddy is Waiting
With all these tips, you’re set to pick a nightstand that checks all the boxes — one that fits your style, adds a touch of personality, and actually works with your daily routine.
Your nightstand is an essential part of your bedroom that helps keep everything you need within reach.
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Main Image Credit: ajay_suresh / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
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