Do You Need Two Nightstands? (Explained)

A nightstand can be a genuinely helpful addition to your bedroom. It is a place to put your bedside treasures when you’re done with them.

It can provide extra storage and a space to place personal items such as a phone, charger, reading glasses, and more. 

Moreover, it offers personal space for your reading lamp and an alarm clock that won’t disturb your partner when they are asleep.

But, do you need two nightstands?

No. There are no rules dictating that you must have two nightstands. Whether you can live with one nightstand or two is a matter of personal preference and necessity. However, if you’re a couple, having two nightstands is beneficial because it will allow each side of the bed to have its own place to keep your items. 

More so, if you have unlimited floor space, go with two nightstands to maximize your bedroom’s storage and organization.

Below you’ll find a detailed breakdown of the reasons for having two nightstands vs not having them. 

This will help you immediately come to a decision regarding which option will be right for you. 

You’ll also find a few great alternatives to a second nightstand that will still be a valuable contribution to the space.

Let’s get to it.

Reasons Why You May Need Two Nightstands

You’ll need two nightstands if you share your bed with a partner and want to keep your phone, glasses, and other items within reach on both sides of the bed.

This will eliminate the need to fight over who is getting up to retrieve their phone, glasses, or other items.

Two nightstands will also come in handy if your partner likes to read or work in the dark without disrupting the other.

More reasons why you should get two nightstands include the following;

1. Symmetry

Two nightstands have a more stylish look than a single nightstand. They elude a symmetrical look that can help when you’re trying to decorate your bedroom.

If you have a larger bedroom with a different color palette, then having two nightstands with matching designs can help it look more cohesive and well-balanced.

According to Feng Shui rules, having matching furniture will ensure a wave of positive and balanced energy in the space. 

2. Extra storage space

If you keep a lot of stuff by your bedside, getting two nightstands is better.

In addition to balancing the symmetry of your bedroom, they offer more space to organize your stuff.

Moreover, you can place items on both nightstands to expand the total storage capacity of your bedside area and declutter your bedroom. 

3. It’s functional and practical

We must remember the practicality that two nightstands offer. Having a nightstand on either side of the bed allows you to easily reach your items while you are still relaxing in bed.

If you want a place to keep your phone, glance at the time, use a lampshade while reading, or have a place to keep a glass of water or medication, a nightstand offers you easy access and use.

With a nightstand on either side of the bed, there won’t be any fights or competition as both of you will have your own space.

If it’s just you, this is still a great way to have sufficient storage space without cluttering a single nightstand. 

Reasons Why You Don’t Need Two Nightstands

Also, there are many reasons why you may not need a second nightstand. These reasons include the following:

1. You have no need

Many people wouldn’t really need two nightstands unless they share their bed with another person or are avid readers who need their reading essentials within reach.

Having two nightstands can be unnecessary and even overkill in smaller bedrooms or bedrooms occupied by non-couples.

2. The space is limited

Sometimes, situations will force you to forgo the luxury of having two nightstands.

Some people, especially in apartments and small homes, may not have enough room to accommodate two nightstands.

If a single nightstand fits in your bedroom without crowding other essentials, then it might be better to just stick with one nightstand instead of two.

However, there is always a workaround if you really are in need of a second nightstand.

If you’re someone who likes to read in bed and you need your own light source, you could consider getting a light that will clamp onto the headboard or you can make use of a small table or chair to place next to your bed. 

3. You have a single bed

Ideally, two nightstands are best suited if you have a queen-size or king-size bed. However, if you have a twin bed, a single nightstand can do the trick.

Do Nightstands Have to Match?

Although matching nightstands are generally more pleasant and appealing to look at, nightstands do not need to match. In fact, mixing and matching can be a great opportunity to add a unique and creative look to the space.

You can also include different textures, materials, or colors that will boost the appeal of your decor.

As long as the nightstands are similar in style, height, or width, you can have different nightstands. 

See also: Do Nightstand Lamps Need To Match? (Answered)

How To Choose Matching Nightstands

The style, design, and finish are the three most essential components to consider when choosing a nightstand. 

You’ll also want to take into account the style and theme of the bedroom decor to ensure your nightstand is a fitting piece.

The way you furnish your bedroom will also convey a lot about your personality, interests, and taste.

But there are a few brief suggestions you can follow when choosing nightstands:

Size

Having an idea of how big, small, high, or low the nightstands should be will help you narrow down the choices.

The recommended height for a nightstand should be on level or slightly higher than the mattress but this depends on what’s comfortable for you.

Taking accurate measurements can also help you figure out which nightstand will suit your decor. 

Style

Nightstands come in all different styles, designs, materials, textures, and colors.

Every room is different but if you want your decor to reflect your taste and creative style, then I’m certain you’ll be able to find the perfect one.

You can also look at options in terms of the material of the nightstand (wood or metal) or the style (traditional, modern, contemporary, rustic, farmhouse, chic), and how this will influence the space.

The style of the nightstand is one of the most essential factors when choosing a nightstand.

Usability and function

The next thing you’ll want to consider is storage space.

If you need a nightstand that is both practical and functional, then choose a nightstand with drawers that can be used to store small items.

If you just need a nightstand for the tabletop space, then opt for more creative designs. How you plan to use the nightstand will determine what kind of nightstand you get.

Hardware and special features

Some nightstands may offer special features like removable hardware or built-in outlets.

If this sounds useful to you, consider looking into these types of nightstands.

In addition, another smaller aspect you can consider is the hardware and the color, shape, and design of the hardware that will add an extra feature to your bedroom decor. 

Alternatives to Go With if You Can’t Have a Second Nightstand

If you don’t need two nightstands, then you should look into these simpler and more affordable alternatives:

1. Get a bedside table that converts into a tray table

Rather than getting a second nightstand, you can purchase a bedside table that converts into a simple tray table for reading.

This is an excellent alternative to two nightstands and will provide you with all the storage and organization needed.

2. Use a chair, stool, or side table

If you don’t have enough space for two nightstands, opt for a chair for your bedside. It’s a fashionable way to add a touch of elegance to your bedroom.

You can use the chair to hold your reading essentials and keep needed things organized. If possible, go for a color that complements your bedroom furniture.

3. Opt for a floating nightstand

A floating nightstand is mounted onto the wall next to the bed and saves floor space. This sleek and slim nightstand is a great alternative if you want something that looks modern and contemporary while also embracing functionality as its key feature. 

4. Use a small bookcase

Alternatively, you can also consider getting a bookcase for your other bedside area. This will keep your books and personal items organized yet accessible.

You can also create symmetry by placing similar items, such as decorative lamps found on your nightstand.

This will come in handy to complete the look of your space.

Recommended read: Can A Nightstand Be Used As An End Table?

Conclusion

Having two nightstands can be extremely beneficial if you share your bedroom space with a partner. 

This offers sufficient personal space for items like your own phone, alarm, accessories, and devices without competing for the use of one single nightstand. 

With two nightstands, if you and your partner have different alarms or sleeping times, this won’t disturb the other. 

Two nightstands also tend to match the symmetry in the space, especially in large rooms with double, queen, or king-size beds that are positioned in the center of the space, which contributes to the overall aesthetic. 

Despite the many advantages of having two nightstands, it really depends on your preferences. 

For those with limited space and no real use for a nightstand besides its decorative purpose, then you can make do with just one nightstand. 

If you don’t need much storage, a single nightstand can offer more open floor space for other bedroom accessories.