Which nightstand is best?
A nightstand should be practical and functional, blending your sense of style with convenient features. Whether you’re looking for something sleek and modern or something more, you need a reliable, well-built stand. The has real wood legs and comes with a high-quality style that will freshen up any bedroom.
What to know before you buy a nightstand
Materials
Most nightstands are constructed from traditional wood or manufactured wood such as pressboard or medium-density fiberboard. Occasionally, nightstands are made from mixed materials such as fiberboard and plastic or wood and glass.
The legs are built one of two ways. They are constructed from either the same wood or faux wood material as the drawers or made from sturdy metal, likely steel. When it comes to handles, some nightstands feature cutout handles, but most use metal or glass hardware.
Dimensions
A standard nightstand usually measures 24-38 inches tall, making it level or a little taller than the average bed, which is about 25 inches tall. Keep in mind that some mattresses go up to 30 inches in height, so choose your nightstand accordingly.
The width for a nightstand is 21-29 inches, and the depth falls between 12 and 30 inches. A narrow bed usually looks better with a narrower nightstand to match. A twin-size bed pairs well with a smaller nightstand, while full- to king-size beds do best with a wider nightstand.
Designated storage space
There are a few ways a nightstand provides you with storage space. Some nightstands use one of these methods while others mix and match or twice the organizational space.
- Drawers are usually featured at the top of the nightstand for easy access. There can be one drawer or up to three.
- Shelving typically rests at the bottom of the nightstand with one or two shelves divided into two to four sections.
- Cabinets are great if you want shelves, but you don’t want them to be visible. One or two doors open at the front of the nightstand to reveal the inner shelving. These doors can also add additional stylistic details.
What to look for in a quality nightstand
Built-in outlets
You might recognize nightstands with built-in electrical outlets from hotel furniture, but it’s also a convenience you can enjoy at home. A nightstand like this has two outlets on the front or the side in an area that is easy to access. You use a cord in the back to plug the nightstand into the wall, and then you can plug lamps or other devices directly into the easy-to-reach outlets.
USB compatibility
In recent years, nightstands have started to come with two built-in USB ports. This is great for people who like to charge phones, tablets or other smart devices near the bed where they’ll have easy access to them.
Lights
Some nightstands feature a built-in lighting system for lower-level shelving. It’s great because it helps you find things in the dark and, in some instances, can prevent the need for a bedside lamp. It also functions as a night light to give the floor some visibility if you have to get out of bed for anything after you’ve turned the light off.
How much you can expect to spend on a nightstand
A single nightstand usually costs $35-$300. A matching set of two costs $80-$500.
Nightstand FAQ
How is a nightstand different from an end table?
A. While some small tables can be used as a nightstand or an end table, the biggest difference is storage space. A nightstand features drawers or shelves, while end tables tend to be more simplistic with fewer extras.
Do nightstand drawers lock?
A. Most nightstands don’t have locking mechanisms unless the listing specifies a locking drawer. If you are confident with tools or woodworking, you can customize your nightstand with a fingerprint or manual lock.
What’s the best nightstand to buy?
Top nightstand
What you need to know: This nightstand has plenty of storage, with a spacious drawer and additional bookshelf space at the bottom. It measures 28.25 inches tall.
What you’ll love: The legs are made of real wood, so they’re extra stable. It’s easy to assemble. It’s a classic style, so it will go with lots of different decor. It’s also available in multiple finishes and colors, so it’s easy to get one that will match your bedroom.
What you should consider: The paint chips easily.
Top nightstand for the money
What you need to know: This nightstand is made from manufactured wood with a steel frame and matching metal hardware. It measures 21.7 inches by 25.7 inches by 15.7 inches.
What you’ll love: There is a top drawer and a bottom shelf for optimal storage. It comes in three attractive wood-inspired colors. You can purchase a single nightstand or a matching set of two. It’s sturdy and offers a lot for the price.
What you should consider: It is difficult to assemble.
Worth checking out
What you need to know: This sturdy, refined nightstand will look fabulous in any bedroom.
What you’ll love: This sophisticated espresso nightstand will make any room look classy. It comes with a drawer and a lower cabinet. It’s easy to assemble, requiring only an Allen wrench to put together (which is included).
What you should consider: The wood can scratch or dent easily.
Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.
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