Can A Nightstand Be Used As An End Table?
By definition, an end table is considered a compact and beautiful table placed beside a bed or sofa. It has both a functional and aesthetic purpose. But, so does a nightstand. In a lot of ways, they are quite similar. So, can a nightstand be used as an end table? In this article, we will discuss whether a nightstand can be used as an end table to help you make a wise decision.
A simple answer is yes, a nightstand can be used as an end table. In fact, if you have to choose between a nightstand and an end table, you should choose a nightstand because they are incredibly versatile. Nightstands have two functional parts, including the top surface and the lower drawers that can be used for storing important items. On the other hand, the only functional part of an end table is the top part.
This means that a nightstand can comfortably serve as an end table, but an end table cannot perform all the functions of a nightstand.
A nightstand is technically a multifunctional table.
On the other hand, an end table is simply a table with legs attached to it and is mostly used for decorative purposes.
Because a nightstand is not just a regular table, it is a better choice than an end table because it provides you with extra space to store things that you use frequently, such as nail files, pens, medicine, nail clippers, and much more.
Most modern nightstands are also stylish and unique and can enhance the overall look of your bedroom just like end tables.
When buying bedroom furniture, most people are usually torn between buying both a nightstand and an end table or a nightstand only.
Both of these pieces of furniture are a great addition to your bedroom and can make it more functional and attractive.
But if you are on a tight budget or have limited space in your bedroom, you may be forced to choose one of these two pieces of bedroom furniture. If you have decided to purchase a nightstand but are wondering if it can also be used as an end table, then you have come to the right place.
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What Is The Difference Between A Nightstand And An End Table?
Before we can decide on whether a specific nightstand can serve as an end table, let us first discuss the difference between these two pieces of furniture.
Most people usually use these two terms interchangeably, and that is understandable because they look similar and most of their functions are also similar.
But these two pieces of bedroom furniture have some distinct differences.
The main difference between a nightstand and an end table is that nightstands have drawers or shelves that support items that might be useful at night such as tissue paper, medicine, a cell phone, books, drinks, and much more.
Nightstands are mostly used for storage and are usually placed within arm’s reach of the bed. Their deep drawers help to eliminate clutter by safely storing items that are frequently used.
On the other hand, end tables don’t have drawers; they are just legs attached to a tabletop. They are mostly used for decorative purposes to improve bedroom aesthetics.
The only functional feature of an end table is the surface, which is used to hold items such as an alarm clock, books, a cell phone, and much more.
However, some coffee tables are equipped with a single shelf near the bottom, which is also used for aesthetics.
Due to a lack of drawers, end tables tend to be designed more creatively and uniquely. If your goal is to add a table to a room that doubles as a feature piece, then a traditional end table may be the best option.
This is especially true if you want something that utilizes glass or mirrors in its design.
Comparisons Between A Nightstand And An End Table
| Nightstand: | End Table: |
| They are mostly placed near the bed. They are used to store items that are mostly used at night and thus should be within arm’s reach from the bed. | They are most used for decorative purposes and thus they don’t need to be close to the bed. |
| They have drawers or built-in storage. | They don’t have drawers, they are just legs attached to a tabletop. |
| They are slightly shorter than end tables. | They are slightly taller than nightstands. |
| Their average height is between 24 and 28 inches tall. | The average height of an end table is between 25 and 30 inches tall. |
Alternatives To Nightstands As End Tables
1. Shelves
Some creativity and consideration is required when selecting a location to install shelves but it can be a great alternative to end tables.
Floating shelves don’t take up as much space, they make use of wasted wall space, and can be non-intrusive while serving the function of storing accessories, display items, electronics, and/or plants.
2. Flat dining chairs
There’s a big difference between normal chairs and dining chairs. Dining chairs are often carefully constructed to look good. They’re high end and serve more of an aesthetic function than just a practical one.
These days, you can get a hold of a flat dining chair with an impeccable design throughout its base and legs.
This type of dining chair would be suitable as an end table, but it must not have a backrest.
3. Ottoman
An ottoman is typically used for additional seating but when designed appropriately, it can double as an end table.
Most ottoman’s have a flat top which means that things can be stored on it.
But, what’s particularly cool is that certain ottoman’s have storage space underneath the surface. This can be useful if you have magazines, books, or other items that you want to store in it.
4. Books
For those of us who are a fan of DIY end tables and decor ideas, you could make an end table from using old books.
For a book end table, you need to get your hands on hardcover books because they are stronger, more durable, and maintain their form even when items are placed on top of them.
Head over to a bargain book store, pick up a bunch of hardcover books, restore them, stack them on each other to the desired height, enforce them with glue or rope, and use them as an end table.
5. Wood Block Table
If you’re not so concerned with functionality and you’d like to include something natural, earthy, wooden in your room decor as an end table, why not consider getting your hands on a wood block table.
You can get them in their natural shapes or as a block. Furthermore, you can have them sized or cut according to your desired measurements, especially in terms of height.
They can be painted a different color or treated with a sealant and/or varnish for a rich and earthy finish.
Functionally, only the surface can be used to store or display things as an end table but it’s definitely an option worth considering, especially if you are into minimalistic decorations.
Final Thoughts
Nightstands and end tables can be used interchangeably because they have many features in common. But nightstands have an upper hand over end tables because they are equipped with drawers that are not present in end tables.
So, yes a nightstand can be used as an end table. In fact, you will benefit more if you purchase a nightstand in place of an end table.
If you are thinking of buying a nightstand in place of an end table, go ahead because it will fit perfectly well.
With that being said, if you found this article on why a nightstand can be used as an end table helpful, I strongly suggest you check out some of these other decor articles below:
1. Should nightstands be taller than the bed?
