How Tall Should a Nightstand Be? (Expert Tips + Sizing Chart)
nightstand height | homeyfad

 

Choosing the right nightstand height is important for creating a comfortable and stylish bedroom. At HomeyFad, we know that the right bedside table height can have a big impact on your nighttime routine; whether you want to grab a book, charge your phone, or turn off the lights, an incorrectly sized bedside table can affect your comfort and make your experience less than perfect.

In this guide, we’ll cover:

Standard bedside table heights for most beds
✔ How to match your bedside table to your mattress height
✔ Pro tips for choosing a bedside table based on sleeping position and function
✔ A handy bedside table height size chart
✔ Common mistakes and how to avoid them
✔ Other bedside table options

Besides that, we’ll also share HomeyFad’s top picks for beautiful and functional bedside tables.

 


 

What’s the Ideal Nightstand Height?


The recommended height for a bedside table is usually between 24 and 28 inches (61-71 cm); this range ensures that the surface of the bedside table is flush with the mattress or slightly lower than the mattress, making it easier to access items.

Why bedside table height is so important

  • Ergonomic angle—prevents neck and shoulder fatigue when picking up and placing items

  • Aesthetic angle—can better create a visual balance in bedroom decoration

  • Functional angle—can provide the right space for lamps, books and nighttime necessities

HomeyFad recommends measuring the height of the mattress before choosing a bedside table.

Shop HomeyFad Nightstands

best nightstand height | homeyfad

 


 

How to Choose the Right Nightstand Height


1. You Need to Match the Height of Your Mattress


Follow this super simple formula to get the perfect height: Nightstand height = Mattress height ± 2 inches

Examples:

  • Standard mattress (25 inches) → 23-27 inch nightstand

  • Low platform bed (18 inches) → 16-20 inch nightstand

  • High bed frame (30 inches) → 28-32 inch nightstand

 

2. Consider Your Sleeping Habits

  • Side sleepers → slightly higher (easier to access)
  • Back sleepers → Standard height works very well

  • Mixed sleepers → Medium height, more versatile

 

3. Consider Functionality


Need storage? Choose a taller nightstand with drawers

Minimalist style? A stylish low nightstand might be more suitable

Use a lamp? Then make sure the switch is within arm’s reach

 


 

HomeyFad Nightstand Height Sizing Chart

 

Mattress Height Recommended Nightstand Height HomeyFad Picks
16" - 20" (Low bed) 18" - 22" Space-saving Nightstand
22" - 26" (Standard) 24" - 28" Solid Wood Nightstand
28"+ (Tall bed) 26" - 30" Nightstands Must Have

 



Common Nightstand Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)


1️⃣ Too high – hard to reach and easy to bump into
2️⃣ Too low – having to bend over, which is awkward
3️⃣ Wrong proportions – too big for a small room
4️⃣ Neglecting clearance – not enough space between bed and table
5️⃣ Neglecting style unity – Does not match the bedroom decor

 


 

Other Bedside Table Solutions


If traditional bedside tables don’t fit your space, try:

  • Wall-mounted floating shelves (space-saving)

  • Trapezoidal bedside tables (small footprint)

  • Side table (as a nightstand)

  • Multi-layered bedside tables (extra storage)

  • Small dressers used as bedside tables (ideal for couples)

HomeyFad offers a stylish alternative that maximizes functionality.

Shop Floating Nightstands

Wall-Mounted Nightstand | homeyfad

 

Side Table for Bedside Table | homeyfad

2-drawer Wood Nightstand | homeyfad

 Dressers as a bedside table | homeyfad

 


 

Conclusion: How to Choose Your Ideal Bedside Table


Finding the best bedside table height depends on your

  • Mattress thickness and bed height

  • Sleeping habits

  • Storage needs

  • Bedroom decor style

You can use our size chart as a reference, and don’t forget to measure the mattress height before purchasing. Whether you are standing from the perspective of space decoration or practicality, HomeyFad can meet your bedroom decoration needs.

After reading this, you should now have a satisfactory answer to the choice of nightstand; why not explore HomeyFad’s selected bedside table series and easily create your ideal bedroom nightstand!

 

FAQs

 

Q: Should nightstands be taller or shorter than beds?

A: Not entirely. The height of the bedside table depends on the mattress and should be about 2 inches higher or lower; this is mainly to ensure you can easily reach the bedside table while lying in bed. As mentioned above:

  • Standard mattress (25 inches) → 23-27 inch bedside table

  • Low platform bed (18 inches) → 16-20 inch bedside table

  • High bed frame (30 inches) → 28-32 inch bedside table

 
Q: How to choose the right nightstand design?
 
A: This largely depends on your room style and your preferences. Once you've determined the style, size, and required functions, you can choose a satisfactory bedside table. For more details, see another blog post: How to Choose a Nightstand Design? 101 Guide
 
 
Q: Can you suggest some popular styles of nightstands?
 
A: Organic modern design is a popular trend nowadays. For bedside tables, simple curves, natural materials, and interesting designs are favored. Popular bedside table styles include mid-century modern, natural, modern, and understated luxury.
 
 
Last updated on April 9, 2026
Back to the blog title
0 comments
Post comment
Note: commnets needs to be approved before publication
  • Nightstands

  • Round Nightstand

  • Floating Nightstand

  • Black Nightstands

  • Narrow Nightstand