How to Choose Nightstands: Height, Dimensions, and Styles

Updated in October 2026

A nightstand is a small piece of furniture that makes a big difference: it determines how high you place your book, whether the drawer keeps what you need within easy reach, and whether the bedroom feels airy or cramped. Choosing the right one is more a matter of measurements and proportion than of personal taste.

This guide explains what height you need, what dimensions to choose based on your space, whether a drawer or shelf is best for you, what styles are available, and how to coordinate it with your bed and headboard.

Height: The Measure That Matters Most

This is the most common mistake: not checking the height of the nightstand in relation to the bed. It should be at the same height as the top of the mattress or, at most, 5 to 10 cm higher, so you can reach your glass of water or the lamp without stretching.

• Low bed or Japandi-style bed (mattress height 40 to 45 cm): nightstand 40 to 50 cm.
• Standard bed (mattress height 50 to 55 cm): nightstand 50 to 60 cm.
• Loft bed or bed with a storage base (mattress at 60 cm or higher): nightstand 60 to 65 cm high.

Before you buy, measure from the floor to the top of the assembled mattress, including the box spring or storage base. If you don't have a bed yet, check out our bed size guide.

Dimensions and proportions tailored to your space

Beyond the height, the width and depth determine whether the side table fits without getting in the way:

The arrangement relative to the bed is also important: on a double bed, two matching nightstands on either side create a balanced look. Leave at least 60 cm of clear space on each side of the bed.

Drawer, shelf, or open shelving

• With a drawer: hides what you don't want in plain sight, such as cables or personal items. The most practical option.
• Drawer and bottom shelf: closed storage on top and open space below for books or a basket. The most versatile option.
• With a door: maximum hidden storage, useful if you store a lot of things.
• Open shelving: more visually unobtrusive, ideal for small bedrooms. On the other hand, everything is out in the open.

If you share a bed, think about each side: someone who reads at night might want a shelf for a few books; someone who charges their phone will appreciate a drawer to hide the cords.

Styles: modern, floating, and rustic

• Modern or Nordic: clean lines, slender legs, and wood grain as the focal point.
• Wall-mounted: It attaches to the wall without legs, keeping the floor clear and making the bedroom feel more spacious. It requires a sturdy wall.
• Rustic: wood with a pronounced grain, a sturdy appearance, and natural finishes.

In every case, solid wood makes all the difference: unlike particleboard, it doesn't warp or splinter over time. Discover our solid wood nightstands.

Side Tables for Small Bedrooms

• Narrow side table (30 to 40 cm): just enough space for a lamp and a cell phone without blocking the way.
• Floating nightstand: Keeping the floor clear makes the bedroom seem more spacious.
• Round coffee table: With no corners, it takes up less visual space and prevents bumps.
• Just one small table: whether next to single beds or against the wall, sometimes one is enough.

Nightstand or side table: interchangeable uses

Nightstands and side tables are very versatile pieces of furniture. A small side table can serve as a nightstand, and a nightstand can be used outside the bedroom:

• Next to the sofa: as a side table for a lamp, a book, or the remote.
• In the living room: two or three small tables placed together can serve as a coffee table.
• In the office: a small table with drawers serves as a chest of drawers next to the desk.
• In the entryway: for keys and mail.

How to Match Them with the Bed and Headboard

• Same wood and finish as the headboard: the most cohesive look. If you're choosing a headboard, start with our guide to wooden headboards.
• Deliberate contrast: a natural oak headboard paired with nightstands in a darker or bleached shade.
• Symmetry: Two matching nightstands and two matching lamps create balance in the bedroom.
• Wall color: Warm neutrals bring out the best in oak. Check out our guide to the colors that pair best with oak.