How High Should a Nightstand Be? 5 Expert Tips

How tall should a bedside table be compared to a bed?This is one of the tips you need to know so that you can choose a more functional and comfortable bedside table that is not overcrowded or too tall.

“As much as I like to break the rules and rules, there are some important considerations when choosing a bedside table size,” says designer Marie Cloud. “Overall, if you’re in the same proportions, functional needs are met, and there’s space for free items, you’ve conquered the nightstand size battle,” she adds.

Designers, including Claude, offer tips and advice on how to choose the ideal bedside table.

Feel the Proportions

The designers agreed that size and proportions were key to choosing a bedside table.

“Many times, I’ve walked into a client’s space and they end up buying a bedside table that’s too small or too big, without knowing or understanding the size of the bedside table,” says designer Peti Lau.

But she says it’s important to have a bed that fits the size of the space before choosing a bedside table. In a large room, a queen-size bed may feel too small, while in a small room, a king-size bed may be large, Liu said. Once the right-sized bed is in place, it’s easier to choose a bedside table.

Designer Stephanie Goldman says that when choosing a bedside table, you only need to consider all the other items in the space.

“I like to make sure that [all] of furniture is weight-balanced throughout the room for the best visual appeal,” Goldman said.

Choose the Height and Width of the Bedside Table

“The average height of a bedside table should be between 24 and 28 inches, which is 25 inches from the floor to the mattress,” Lau explains. “The width depends on how much space you have left. ”

Designer Emily Starr Alfano agrees. “You don’t want it to be lower or too high than your mattress height, or you’ll be awkward to pick up what’s on it,” she said.

The designers agreed that there was no hard and fast rule on the width of the bedside table. “With the width, I think you can have more fun,” Alfano said.

Choose Your Style

From traditional to trendy, there are plenty of nightstand ideas and styles to suit your personal style.

“Sometimes, if you have a lot of space on your headboard wall, the bedside table can be a second dresser to provide more storage space,” Liu said.

Goldman Sachs agrees: “I personally like to use big boobs to achieve a symmetrical look when working with clients. ”

Look for unusual items that can be used as bedside tables. For example, consider placing an antique dresser on one side of the bed to provide multiple functions and a vintage cabinet on the other side for storage. Floating shelves used as bedside tables take up less space and provide the right aesthetic for a minimalist modern bedroom. Doris Roberts, a designer and home stage designer, said the bar cart and living room coffee table can also be used as bedside tables, and she uses a round three-tier mirrored table as a bedside table in her client’s bedroom.

Personalize with Unmatched Tables

According to Alfano, the bedside table does not need to be matched. She has two different old-fashioned bedside tables in her bedroom. If your nightstand really doesn’t match, interior designer Caroline Agee has a solution.

“Add symmetry with other items, such as a pair of matching lights or matching artwork on top of each, to create a balanced look,” she says.

Keep the Features in Mind

Focus on your daily life and organizational needs to help you choose your bedside table.

“There should be plenty of space for a glass of water, a book or two, a framed photograph and a lamp, although if space is limited, a wall lamp can also be used,” says Agee about the essentials of the bedside table.

If you want to put your devices to sleep at night, consider using lower drawers or shelves with charging devices instead of placing them on the table, as they may fall or face spilled water bottles. Drawers can store small items that can easily fall off the bedside table. Consider all these small details when choosing a bedside table.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should a bedside table be higher or lower than a bed?

For easy access, it’s best to have a bedside table completely flush with the mattress. If your nightstand is a few inches taller than your bed, you can still easily access items. It’s okay if it’s a little lower than your mattress, but if your table is too low, it’s hard to reach for something.

Is 32 inches too tall for a bedside table?

This may depend on the height of the top of the mattress from the floor. Measure the top of the mattress to see if 32 inches is too tall or just right.

What is considered a high nightstand?

The average height of a bedside table is between 25 and 28 or 30 inches. Any nightstand that is more than 30 or 32 inches is considered a high nightstand.