Ekstrom 3-Drawer Nightstands for Style & Storage

A nightstand is an essential bedroom furnishing that provides convenient storage and organization right next to the bed. With three roomy drawers, the Ekstrom nightstand from IKEA offers ample space to stash books, devices, medicines, and other bedside essentials while complementing your room's decor.

Keep reading to learn all about the versatile Ekstrom 3-drawer nightstand and how it can enhance your bedroom sanctuary.

An Overview of the Ekstrom Nightstand

Part of IKEA's Stockholm collection, the Ekstrom nightstand features a minimalist design with clean lines and a simple cubic shape. It is made from particleboard with a durable lacquer finish available in off-white, black-brown, or dark gray.

The nightstand stands 20 3/4 inches wide, 15 3/4 inches deep, and 26 7/8 inches high. With its compact footprint, the Ekstrom nightstand fits easily next to a bed without occupying too much space. The cubic design with subtle detailing gives it a lightweight, contemporary look.

Smooth and Spacious Drawers

The Ekstrom nightstand is equipped with three smooth-operating drawers that offer ample organized storage. The drawers are mounted on metal rails that allow them to glide easily open and closed. Sturdy drawer stops prevent them overextending.

The top drawer has a depth of 4 inches, while the middle and bottom drawers are deeper at 11 3/4 inches. Together, they provide plenty of room for bedside essentials, clothes, books, electronics, and more. The drawers are also conveniently sized to hold letter and legal-sized files.

Finishes and Materials

Ekstrom nightstands feature a durable lacquer coating over particleboard. The lacquer has a smooth painted finish that resists chips, cracks, and everyday wear and tear. It is easy to keep clean by simply wiping with a damp cloth.

The particleboard construction makes the nightstands lightweight and relatively affordable while still being sturdy. The nightstand's frame, drawers, and drawer fronts are all crafted from particleboard.

For stability, the nightstand sits on four tapered plastic legs that provide a subtle contrast to the lacquered cabinet. Plastic was chosen for its durability and scratch-resistance.

Additional Nightstand Features

The Ekstrom nightstand includes several clever accents and details that enhance its functionality.

• Nickel-plated knobs on the drawer fronts for easy opening
• Smooth metal drawer rails for stability
• Adjustable feet underneath to level on uneven floors
• Ventilation slots in the back panel for air circulation
• Pre-drilled holes to mount the Svalnas LED light if desired

With its neutral colors and subtle design, the Ekstrom nightstand blends seamlessly into modern, contemporary, minimalist, or Scandinavian-inspired bedrooms. The lacquer finish gives it a smooth, sophisticated look.

Nightstand Uses and Placement

A nightstand is one of the handiest items to have next to the bed. The Ekstrom nightstand can hold a lamp, alarm clock, phone charger, books, remotes, tissues, eyeglasses, medicines, moisturizers, and anything else you need access to while in bed or getting ready.

Thanks to the three roomy drawers, you can neatly organize and stow away these bedside essentials when not in use. The drawers are also great for storing extra blankets, pillow cases, intimates, and pajamas.

On One or Both Sides of the Bed

Many bedrooms feature matching nightstands on either side of the bed for symmetry. This gives both sleepers accessible storage and surface space.

However, if space is tight, a single nightstand on one side of the bed may suffice. This allows for a bit more walking room around the bed while still offering storage next to where you sleep.

Coordinating with Other Furniture

The neutral Ekstrom nightstand coordinates beautifully with a wide range of furniture styles thanks to its simple design. For a coordinated look, pair it with other pieces from IKEA's Stockholm collection, like the Stockholm TV unit or coffee table.

The nightstand's colors and matte lacquer finish also allow it to blend in with wood, metal, or painted furniture from other collections. Try pairing it with IKEA's Malm bed frame or Kontinental dresser.

You can also use Ekstrom nightstands to add a contemporary touch to more traditional mahogany, cherry, or oak bedroom sets. The cubic shape provides contrast to ornate curved designs.

Styling the Nightstand

One of the great things about nightstands is that you can style them to suit your personal taste. Keep the Ekstrom nightstand surface clutter-free by storing most items in the drawers. Then accessorize attractively with:

• Table lamp
• Vase of flowers
• Framed photos
• Book or e-reader
• Tray to corral small items
• Small plant like a succulent

This allows you to create a decorative bedside vignette that also stays practical. The drawers keep things tidy but still within arm's reach.

Pros of the Ekstrom Nightstand

The Ekstrom nightstand offers many benefits for a bedroom. Here are some of its top advantages:

Convenient Bedside Storage

Having storage space right next to the bed is extremely convenient. The three drawers provide easy access to items you use at bedtime or first thing in the morning without having to get up.

Space-Saving Design

Measuring just 20 3/4 inches wide, the Ekstrom can fit in tight spaces between furniture or on one side of the bed. The vertical orientation makes the most of a small footprint.

Minimalist Aesthetic

With its neutral colors, matte lacquer finish, and simple lines, the Ekstrom nightstand has a light and contemporary look. The minimalist design makes it easy to incorporate into a range of decor styles.

Durable Construction

Made from scratch-resistant lacquered particleboard and smooth metal and plastic components, the Ekstrom nightstand holds up well to everyday use without dents, stains, or damage.

Easy Assembly

The nightstand comes packed flat in a box for easy transport. Assembly is straightforward with included instructions and can be accomplished in less than 30 minutes using the included hardware and tools.

Potential Drawbacks

While versatile and well-designed, the Ekstrom nightstand does come with a few limitations to keep in mind:

Prone to Smudges and Fingerprints

The smooth lacquer shows smudges, fingerprints, and dust relatively easily. Frequent wiping downs are needed to keep the nightstand looking clean, especially with the darker finishes.

No Soft-Closing Drawers

The drawers don't have a soft-close mechanism. This means that they can slam shut loudly if pulled out all the way. You'll need to close them gently.

No Power Outlet

There is no built-in power outlet, USB port, or charging station, despite many people using nightstands to charge devices overnight. You'll need to supply your own charging solutions.

Particleboard Construction

While durable and stable, particleboard is prone to swelling and crumbling when exposed to lots of moisture. The nightstand must be kept in climate-controlled indoor spaces.