What's the best nightstand height for your bed?

Choosing the right nightstand height might seem like a small detail, but it plays a big role in your bedroom’s comfort and design. Whether you’re decorating a new home or upgrading your furniture, the correct nightstand height makes daily routines easier and your bedroom more functional. According to many experienced interior designer in Mangalore, the perfect nightstand should not only match your bed’s height but also suit your personal needs and bedroom style.

Why Nightstand Height Matters

Your nightstand is one of the most used pieces of furniture in the bedroom. From keeping your phone, alarm clock, books, glasses, or even a glass of water nearby, a nightstand should be easily accessible. If it's too high or too low compared to your mattress, it becomes uncomfortable and inconvenient. You may have to stretch or bend awkwardly to reach it, which is not ideal especially when you’re half asleep at night.

So, what’s the ideal nightstand height? The general rule is that your nightstand should be about the same height as the top of your mattress, or within 2–4 inches higher or lower at most.

Standard Bed and Nightstand Heights

Let’s break it down with some average measurements:

• Standard bed height: Around 24 to 26 inches from the floor to the top of the mattress.

• Standard nightstand height: Around 24 to 28 inches.

This means if your mattress is 25 inches high, your nightstand should ideally be between 23 to 27 inches tall. This makes it comfortable to reach items on it while lying in bed.

Matching Style and Function

While height is the most important factor, it’s also important to choose a nightstand that matches your bedroom’s design and your lifestyle.

• Modern style beds often sit lower to the ground, which means you need shorter nightstands to match.

• Traditional beds tend to be higher, especially those with thick mattresses and box springs, requiring taller nightstands.

An interior designer in Mangalore would also recommend looking at other features, like storage needs, tabletop size, and materials. For instance, if you love reading in bed, a nightstand with drawers for books is helpful. If you keep your phone or tablet charging overnight, make sure the top is wide enough to hold your devices without clutter.

Tips for Choosing the Right Nightstand Height

Here are a few easy tips to help you find the perfect match:

1. Measure Your Bed Height: Use a measuring tape to check the height from the floor to the top of your mattress.

2. Test the Reach: Sit or lie on your bed and try reaching where your nightstand will go. This helps you feel what’s most natural for you.

3. Keep it Balanced: If you have two nightstands on either side of your bed, make sure they are the same height, even if the design or storage features are different.

4. Avoid Going Too Low: A nightstand that’s much lower than your mattress looks odd and is not practical. You might knock things off or struggle to grab what you need.

5. Mind the Lamp: If you're placing a lamp on the nightstand, the lamp height matters too. The bottom of the lampshade should be roughly at eye level when you're sitting in bed, so make sure the nightstand height supports that.

Floating Nightstands and Custom Options

In modern bedrooms, floating nightstands—shelves attached directly to the wall—are becoming popular. These are great for saving space and creating a minimalist look. They also give you flexibility with height, since you can install them exactly where you need.

If you have an unusual bed height or a specific design in mind, going for a custom nightstand might be the best choice. Many furniture designers in Mangalore can create tailor-made nightstands to perfectly match your bedroom’s layout and style.

Choosing Nightstands for Different Bed Types

• Platform Beds: These are low to the ground, so look for nightstands between 18–22 inches tall.

• Box Spring Beds: These are higher, needing nightstands around 26–28 inches.

• Adjustable Beds: Measure the bed at its average height, and choose a nightstand within 2–4 inches of that measurement.

Think About the Whole Bedroom

While height is the main concern, remember that your nightstand is a part of your overall bedroom look. Its color, texture, material, and shape should complement your bed and other furniture. Matching or coordinating wood finishes, hardware, and design style helps create a calm, cohesive space.

For example, if your bed has a rustic wood frame, choose a nightstand with a similar wooden finish. If your bed has a modern upholstered frame, a sleek metal or glass nightstand might look better. These small details can make your bedroom feel more organized and professionally styled.

Final Thoughts

The best nightstand height is the one that fits your mattress and your needs. Aim for a height close to the top of your bed, with extra storage and style that suits your room. It’s a small change that can improve your bedroom comfort in a big way. And if you’re still unsure, consulting skilled interior decorators in Mangalore can help you choose nightstands that are not only the right height but also match your home’s personality and design goals.