Determining the Best Height for Your Nightstand
When choosing a nightstand for your bedroom, one of the most important considerations is getting the height just right. But with so many factors to weigh, determining the ideal height for your nightstand can get confusing.
Ideal Nightstand Height and Dimensions
As a general rule of thumb, your nightstand should be close in height to the top of your mattress. Specifically, you'll want to look for nightstands that fall within 2 to 4 inches of your mattress height. This allows you to easily access items on the nightstand without uncomfortable stretching or bending.
The typical nightstand height ranges between 24 and 30 inches. But the specific height you need depends on factors like your mattress thickness, arm length when lying in bed, and personal preferences.
In addition to getting the height right, pay attention to the nightstand's width and depth:
- Width: Less than 26 inches allows easy exit from the bed.
- Depth: 20 to 26 inches provides ample storage without protruding too far.
Factors for Determining Proper Nightstand Height
Your Height and Needs
Your arm span and height play a role in choosing the best nightstand height. If you have a longer reach, you may prefer a nightstand up to 4 inches taller than the mattress. Those with shorter arms may opt for only a 1 to 2 inch difference.
Also consider how you plan to use the nightstand. Do you need surface space for books and water glasses? Increased storage for eyeglasses and medicines? Factoring in your personal needs helps narrow down an optimal height.
Bed Height
Measure from your bedroom floor to the top of your mattress. Then select a nightstand around that same height. Pay attention to all bed layers - the mattress itself plus any toppers or pillows upon which you sleep.
Additionally, account for bed frames like platforms or box springs under the mattress. A platform bed may allow you to get away with a slightly taller nightstand than a pillow-top mattress on a box spring.
Design and Function
When choosing a nightstand, considering lighting needs and decor goals along with accessibility can lead you toward the most suitable height option.
For example, taller nightstand designs allow you to mount sconce lights to illuminate the sleep space without casting shadows. Smaller heights may work better for rooms with lower ceilings. The proportions of your nightstand should align with other furnishings in the room.
Standard Nightstand Height Recommendations
General Guidelines
While your specific needs should dictate your final choice, some standard recommendations provide a starting point:
- Very short bed: 23-25 inches
- Typical bed: 24-28 inches
- Tall or stacked bed: 26-32 inches
- Nightstand chests: 26-34 inches
Height Range for Different Users
Preferred nightstand heights also vary based on your height and needs as a sleeper:
- Children: 18-22 inches
- Average women: 24-28 inches
- Average men: 26-32 inches
- Elderly or special needs: 20-26 inches
Those who read or use laptops in bed might enjoy a higher surface. People who keep many items on the nightstand may need more height for organization. Personalizing based on your habits allows for optimal use.
How to Choose the Right Height Nightstand
Use these steps when selecting nightstands for your specific space and needs:
Take Measurements
Measure your mattress height and arm span from your hip while lying down. This gives a starting point for the appropriate nightstand height to provide comfortable bedside reach.
Consider Intended Use and Items Stored
If using your nightstand for display decor only, almost any proportionate height will do. Those who use their nightstand heavily should select a height based on storage needs and accessibility.
Lighting and Style Needs
Evaluate your bedroom layout and design elements. Do you need attached nightstand lighting? Will taller furnishings overwhelm a small space? Coordinate heights and fixtures appropriately.
Allow for Clear Visibility and Reach
Avoid choosing a nightstand so tall that you must crane your neck to see items on its surface. But don't go too short either or stretching to reach your book or water glass gets uncomfortable.
Tips for Getting Nightstand Height Right
These clever tricks can help you get the exact nightstand proportions for optimal use and visual harmony:
Use Furniture Risers for Extra Height
Add subtle height under low nightstands using discreet risers or feet kits. This allows you to use handed down or thrifted pieces at an ideal functional height.
Adjust Mattress Height
If your mattress sits too high for convenient nightstand placement, consider switching to lower-profile bedding or a short bed frame. Adjusting the height of surrounding furniture is simpler than replacing beloved nightstands.
Buy a Nightstand with Adjustable Height
Seek out a nightstand with adjustable height settings. This allows tweaking proportions over time if you change mattresses or bedroom arrangements without requiring a completely new nightstand.
Setting Multiple Nightstands at Different Heights
When styling nightstands on both sides of the bed, setting them at slightly different levels adds appealing visual dimension:
- Vary heights between 1 and 3 inches for interest without major imbalance.
- Place bulkier lighting fixtures on the taller nightstand to weigh the arrangement.
- Coordinate tabletop decor across both surfaces for a cohesive look.
When it comes to nightstand height in relation to your bed and room layout, balance is key for both aesthetics and utility. Follow these equilibrium tips:
- Maintain similar heights on both bedsides for harmony - vary heights minimally.
- Keep heights cohesive across all bedroom furnishings for unity.
- Ensure widths suit room dimensions so proportions don't overwhelm.
- Confirm nightstand depths provide bed access without jutting out awkwardly.
Your nightstands can serve both form and function while elevating your bedroom style.