5 Expert Rules for Choosing a Nightstand That Is the Right Size

Choosing a nightstand is always an enjoyable process, simply because of the sheer amount of options on the market. Are you seeking a piece with two drawers? How about three? Or would you prefer none in order to maintain a more sleek look? And are you more inclined to purchase a glam mirrored style or are you drawn to a boho rattan piece? Yet with so many styles of bedside tables to choose from, designers agree that it is important to take size and proportion into account before adding a possible option to your cart.

Rule 1: Get the Proportions Right—Starting With the Bed

Before one even thinks about selecting nightstands, it’s first important to determine the proper size bed for the space. Just because you’ve slept on a full-sized bed in your studio apartment doesn't mean it's the right piece for your master bedroom in the suburbs. If you have a large room, a queen-size bed feels rather small, and if you have a king-size bed in a tiny room, that really doesn’t help unless all you want to do is be able to literally hop on the bed and nothing else.

Rule 2: Measure for Height and Width

Upon determining the proper size of bed to purchase, you’ll then want to look into nightstand measurements. You don’t want it to be much lower or higher than your mattress height or you’ll be reaching awkwardly for things on it, On terms of width, I think you can have a little more fun. Just take other pieces in the space into consideration, of course. Shared Goldman. Make sure the weight of the furniture is balanced throughout the room for the best visual appeal.

Rule 3: Think Outside the Box

We see many traditional two-drawer bedside tables in design magazines, but it’s ok to think outside the box a bit when it comes to your own space. As long as they conform to these measurement guidelines, bedside tables don’t need to be one particular style, Sometimes a bedside table can be the second dresser for more storage if you have a lot of space in your headboard wall. Living in a small space, I personally have opted to place an antique vanity on one side of my queen-sized bed, and the piece serves double duty as both a spot to apply makeup and functions as a desk when needed. In a previous apartment, I used a small vintage chest as a nightstand, making use of its many drawers to hold odds and ends including magazines, stationery, beauty products, and much more. Even a bar cart can serve a new purpose as a bedside table, as can a round end table.

Rule 4: Don't Worry About Matching Tables

Bedside tables don’t need to match, either. For instance, in my old bedroom, we only had room for one nightstand and used a vintage one I found on Facebook Marketplace. Now that we have room for another nightstand, I’m searching for another vintage style that will go nicely with the existing one but not match it exactly. And such a setup can still look nice and cohesive. If asymmetry isn’t your thing, you can add symmetry with other items, like a pair of matching lamps or matching artwork above each, to create a balanced look.

Rule 5: Keep Your Specific Routine in Mind—Functionality Is Important

Additionally, keeping in mind your daily routines and needs is an important part of the bedside table selection process. There should also be enough space for a glass of water, a book or two, a framed photo, and a lamp, although a wall sconce will work if space is limited. Overall, if your proportions are aligned, functional needs are met, and there is space to style with complimentary items you have conquered the nightstand size battle!