Should Nightstands Be Taller Than The Bed?
Many people have nightstands that are taller than their beds, but can you blame them? These nightstands provide endless storage and an unparalleled look.
Even so, some think it’s absolutely not fine to have taller nightstands.
The reasoning behind this is that most people only use their nightstands for reading glasses, their phones, and maybe some medicines.
It’s perfectly alright to have taller nightstands. As long as your bed is at the right height, which is most likely 24 to 24 ½ inches, depending on individual preference and taste, then you can have a taller nightstand of about 30 inches. This height usually leaves the top corner of your nightstand about 6 inches higher than the top of your mattress.
The best part about having taller nightstands is that they provide an easier reach for items while you are still lying on the bed, compared to a lower one, which would have you bending or reclining when reaching for your items.
In this article, we’ll take a quick look at the factors you can consider before choosing a nightstand and the types of nightstands which will influence your decision.
With that being said, you might be wondering about the ideal nightstand height which will be discussed next.
Table of Contents
What is the Ideal Height of a Night Stand?
Nightstands have multiple uses and come with extra storage space allowing for all your things to be just a reach away while lying in bed. It is primarily used to place your personal items, like a lamp, alarm clock, phone, sleeping pills, or notepad.
When considering the ideal nightstand height, deciding what height to go with can be tricky. Even though there are no set standards on the right nightstand height, most have a height between ”24 and ”28 inches.
Ideally, the recommended height of your nightstand should be the same level as the top of your mattress or the nightstand can be 2 – 4 inches taller than the mattress. This height makes finding things easier when you are in bed.
However, this may vary depending on personal preference and taste.
Measurements Are Your Ally
Before you head over to the furniture store or browse online and commit to a specific nightstand, you’ll want to have a good idea of how high your bed is and a rough idea of how tall you’d like the nightstand to be.
Your decor is a reflection of your style, personality, and interests so there’s no hard and fast rule that demands you decorate or furnish in one way.
Knowing the height of your mattress, including the base, will help you to pick the right nightstand or bedside table height.
If a nightstand is a few inches taller than your mattress but it’s still convenient and comfortable as a place to keep and use your alarm or phone, then it should be fine.
However, if you have a bed that is much lower, a taller nightstand can get annoying over time unless it’s plainly there for decorative purposes only.
You’ll also want to take into account the width and depth of the nightstand to ensure it’s suitable for your bed.
With this in mind, you’re probably now well-equipped to find that perfect nightstand that will complement and enhance your bedroom.
Read also: How To Make A Nightstand Taller (Great Solutions)
But there are a few more factors you can consider which are up next:
How To Choose The Perfect Nightstand
There are a few useful ways to figure out the right nightstand height for any space. They are as follows:
1. Usability
Here’s one main question you can use to decide if the height of the nightstand is suitable for your space:
How comfortable is it to pick up objects, or switch off an alarm or a lampshade without exerting too much arm or shoulder effort?
A nightstand, unless used for decorative purposes, should be within reach and easy to use.
The best type of nightstand is one that will help you grab anything your need without requiring much effort or force.
2. Storage
A nightstand offers more storage space than a table or anything else in your bedroom.
If you have extra items you want to store on your nightstand, you would be better off with a bedside chest drawer or cabinets.
A table would be so impractical and messy if you had files and electrical cords to store. Thus, choose one which offers enough storage for all your items.
3. Tabletop Space
When choosing the right nightstand, you need to consider the surface area of your tabletop. This is because you want the tabletop to be usable space.
If you have many personal items, it would be best to go with a nightstand offering a larger top surface area.
However, if you have lesser personal items and only require a lamp and an alarm clock, then you can easily get by with the standard nightstand.
4. Style
A nightstand is one of the most overlooked areas when it comes to bedroom decor.
This is because it serves a single purpose of providing storage and serving as a table for objects like your lamp, alarm clock, and phone.
This can be made more exciting if you choose one that fits your style. If you’re into modern design, consider industrial styles with less ornamentation.
If you want something that packs more comfort in the bedroom, then you can go with a traditional style that offers a more luxurious appeal.
Choose the color of the nightstand according to your style and taste. The design of the nightstand should add to your bedroom decor while ensuring they are also functional, practical, and meets all your storage needs.
See also: How Far Should A Nightstand Be From The Bed?
Different Types Of Nightstands
There are many different types of nightstands, most of which rely on their style and design. However, these are the most common and popular nightstands on the market:
1. Side Tables
Side tables are small and compact, with barely any storage space except for the tabletop itself. It is usually made of wood or metal but can also be plastic as well.
Side tables have minimal functionality but come in handy when placing drinks, snacks, or anything else you need close by while lying down on the bed,
2. Chest Drawers
Typical bedside chests feature two to three drawers. It is perfect for storing your jewelry, watches, or any other personal items.
The main objective of a drawer at this location is to be handy while lying down in bed.
3. Bedside Cabinets
Bedside cabinets are tall and chunky. They have a lot of storage space, are of solid wood, and can hold lamps and other personal items in their cabinets.
Wrapping Up
Choosing a nightstand height is relatively simple when you know what to look for.
A nightstand that is around at least 30 inches can definitely be taller than a +/- 24-inch bed but it mostly depends on what you prefer and find comfortable.
If you’re someone who likes a standard look and where you can simply stretch your hand out to grab an item, then a nightstand that is on the same level or slightly lower than your mattress would be better suited.
A taller nightstand is also a great option since you don’t have to bend or stoop to grab something from the nightstand and tall nightstands pair well with higher beds.
The look and design of the nightstands should also indicate whether the height works with the bed or not.
However, just remember that practicality and convenience always come first.
Recommended Reads:
What To Do If Your Nightstand Is Too Low? (7 Best Solutions)
