Introduction
Ever feel like your nightstands just don’t “work” with your bed? Maybe they’re too low to reach your lamp easily, or too high to grab your phone without awkward stretching. Learning how to pick the right nightstands for your bed height will help you create a comfortable, balanced, and functional bedroom layout. In this step-by-step guide, you’ll learn exactly how to measure, match, and style your nightstands so they look great and make your life easier every night.
Why Bed and Nightstand Height Matters in the Bedroom
Nightstands aren’t just decorative — they’re one of the most functional pieces of bedroom furniture. They hold your lamp, books, water glass, alarm clock, or phone charger within easy reach. When your nightstands are too high or too low compared to your mattress, it can throw off the room’s balance and make using them awkward. Choosing the right height creates visual harmony, supports better sleep habits, and prevents accidental spills or tumbles when reaching for things half-asleep.
Step-by-Step Guide to Picking the Right Nightstands for Your Bed Height
1. Measure Your Bed Height First
Grab a tape measure and measure from the floor to the top of your mattress — including your mattress topper or any additional padding you use regularly. Write this number down. Most beds range between 20 and 30 inches high, but yours could be higher if you have a plush pillow-top or lower if you use a platform bed.
2. Follow the Ideal Height Rule
Interior designers agree: your nightstands should be about level with the top of your mattress, or up to 2–4 inches higher — never lower.
- Too Low: Hard to reach for items like lamps, water, or phones.
- Too High: Awkward arm angles and a cluttered look.
A nightstand that’s level or slightly higher makes it easy to grab things while sitting or lying in bed.
3. Don’t Forget Bed Frame Type
Different bed frames affect how your mattress sits:
- Platform Beds: Often lower to the ground, so choose shorter nightstands.
- Box Springs & Traditional Frames: Medium height — standard nightstands work best.
- Tall Beds: If you have a canopy or extra storage underneath, you may need taller nightstands.
Always measure after your bed is fully assembled and dressed to get the most accurate number.
4. Consider Function First
Think about what you actually keep on your nightstand. If you love to keep books, a reading lamp, and water glass handy, make sure your nightstand is large enough with a top surface at the right height to reach comfortably.
- For reading in bed, your lamp switch should be easy to turn on or off without straining.
- Drawers and shelves should be accessible without bending or bumping your knees.
5. Double-Check Your Mattress Depth
Extra-deep mattresses are popular now — but they can throw off proportions. A thick mattress may make standard nightstands feel too low. Always double-check how your mattress depth affects the total bed height and adjust your nightstand choice accordingly.
6. Match Nightstand Width for Balance
While height is the main focus, don’t ignore width. For a balanced look:
- Choose a nightstand about ⅓ the width of your bed.
- For king beds, wider nightstands (24–30 inches) look proportional.
- For queen or full beds, narrower tables (18–24 inches) work well.
This keeps the whole setup looking cohesive.
7. Think About Your Bedroom Layout
Sometimes your bedroom’s layout affects your choice. If your bed is near a window, heater, or closet door, you might need a nightstand with a slimmer footprint or a rounded shape to fit comfortably. Always check that drawers can open fully and you have room to walk around.
8. Try a Mix-and-Match Look (If It Fits)
Who says both sides have to match exactly? For shared beds, consider each person’s needs:
- If one side of the bed is higher due to a mattress topper, you may want slightly different nightstands.
- You could use a small dresser or chest on one side for extra storage.
Just make sure both pieces feel balanced in height and style so the room still looks harmonious.
9. Don’t Forget Style and Storage
Once you have the height right, think about practical and style details:
- Do you need drawers for hidden storage or an open shelf for books?
- Would a minimalist floating shelf look cleaner in a small bedroom?
- Do you want a built-in charging station or lamp with USB ports?
Your nightstands should not only match your bed’s height but also your daily routine.
10. Test It Out Before You Commit
If you’re not sure about height, do a test run:
- Stack books or boxes next to your bed to simulate different nightstand heights.
- Sit and lie in bed to see what feels most comfortable when reaching for items.
Better to test now than regret a purchase that doesn’t work!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
✅ Mistake 1: Choosing Nightstands Too Short
Solution: Measure your bed height and pick nightstands that are level with the top or slightly taller — never shorter.
✅ Mistake 2: Ignoring Mattress Depth
Solution: Account for deep mattresses and toppers that can raise your bed height by several inches.
✅ Mistake 3: Forgetting Drawer Clearance
Solution: Make sure there’s room to open drawers fully without hitting your bed frame or walls.
✅ Mistake 4: Overlooking Balance
Solution: Nightstands that are too narrow or wide can throw off the visual balance of the bed area. Use the ⅓ width rule.
✅ Mistake 5: Choosing Style Over Function
Solution: Don’t fall for looks alone — make sure the height and storage meet your real needs.
Extra Tips & Bedroom Hacks
✨ Use a Wall-Mounted Shelf: In a tiny room, a wall-mounted shelf can act as a nightstand. Install it at mattress height for perfect reach.
✨ Adjustable Bed Base? If your bed’s height changes, pick a nightstand with adjustable legs or use stackable risers to keep it level.
✨ Decorate Smart: Use trays to corral items on top and add a lamp with a reachable switch.
👉 Related Article: Want more comfort tips? Check out our guide on How to Choose the Right Pillow for Your Sleep Style for the perfect bedroom setup.
Conclusion
Finding the right nightstands for your bed height is all about balancing comfort, function, and style. A simple tape measure and a few smart layout tips will help you avoid awkward reaching and create a bedroom that looks polished and feels practical. Whether you love a matching pair or a mix-and-match look, the right height makes your bedroom work better for you — every single night.
Bookmark this guide and measure your bed before your next nightstand shopping trip!