Different types of nightstands and how to choose the perfect one for your dream bedroom

1. Bedside Table vs Nightstand

More often than not, we use the terms nightstand and bedside table interchangeably as they perform almost the same function. If you are being technical, there is a difference between the two. As the name suggests, a bedside table is just that – a small table bedside the bed and around the same height as the bed which can hold a lamp or clock and some small items that you are likely to reach for when you are in bed. As in the image, a bedside table provides a convenient surface for the basics but no extra storage.

A nightstand, however, incorporates some other form of storage along with the table surface. This can be one or more drawers, open shelves, cabinets or a combination of various types of storage. Both can help to balance the look or add visual symmetry to the room. As bedroom nightstands incorporate some form of storage, they can be different kinds based on the kind of storage they offer.

2. Nightstand Chests

This is the most popular type of nightstand with drawers. This type is typically a 2 drawer nightstand, sometimes more, with a table top which makes it extremely useful for storage. They look like a smaller version of a chest of drawers.  A general rule of thumb is to get nightstands that aren’t too tall which might make using the top surface inconvenient to use when you are in bed. A few inches taller than the bed (with mattress) would work. 

3. Nightstand Cabinets

A type of nightstand that may not be as popular as the previous one but also offers plenty of storage is the cabinet style. Here a small cupboard is incorporated into the design sometimes with a drawer or open shelf above it. This cabinet comes in handy to store larger or taller items. 

1. Freestanding Nightstand

A freestanding nightstand is a piece that is not attached to any other piece of furniture or wall. You can get these nightstands custom made to suit your room or choose from the abundant readymade options available in the market. These can be any style - a bedside table, open shelves, a 2 drawer nightstand, one drawer and open shelves, a nightstand cabinet, etc.

2. Built-in to the Headboard

These types are usually customised and built-in to the headboard. You can craft two nightstands flanking the bed and attached to the headboard, creating one big piece of furniture behind the bed. What makes them great is that not only can you customise them to match the style of your room but also to any shape or size you require. A built-in nightstand can have any kind of storage you require and can also incorporate features like an outlet.

3. Floating Nightstands

Floating nightstands are wall mounted pieces of furniture and don’t take up floor space. They bring about a more contemporary look and a lighter feel to the bedroom. Because floating nightstands are attached to the wall, you can’t rearrange the layout of the room with ease. Floating nightstands are minimal, hence offer less storage. 

NIGHTSTAND TYPES BASED ON FUNCTION

The very basic function of a nightstand is storage. A simple bedside table provides a horizontal surface for basics while different types of nightstands proved extra storage as well. However, nightstands can also provide additional functionality when planned in advance and executed well. Smart nightstands come with added features like an electric outlet, Bluetooth speakers, USB ports, etc. These features come built in to the nightstand. Some even come with night lights or LED lights built in to the framework. You can also merge a nightstand with other functions to create a sort of hybrid or multi-functional piece. For instance, in this bedroom, the nightstands also double up as mini dressing tables. Each person gets their own dressing table-cum-nightstand area.

If you don’t want extra storage and are just looking for a bedside table, consider a floor lamp with a built-in shelf where you can keep the basics.

If space permits, turn your nightstand into a multi-functional piece like this one. Keeping the nightstand dark wood, the customised piece not only includes drawers and shelfs for storage but also a cosy seating area by the window.

Instead of one height, consider a multi-tier nightstand of varying heights. Not only does it add to the aesthetic but it also gives you additional storage and horizontal surfaces at different heights to work with.

Tall and narrow shelves, ladder shelves, etageres or open bookshelves can also work as nightstands if you are looking for something a little different.