How Tall Should a Nightstand Be?
Let’s face it—nothing ruins your nighttime zen faster than fumbling around for your phone or knocking over your water glass in the dark because your nightstand is the wrong height. Choosing the right bedside table height isn’t just about design; it’s about making your bedroom feel like a functional, comfortable sanctuary.
The nightstand is one of the most used pieces of bedroom furniture—yet ironically, it’s often the most neglected when it comes to thoughtful design. We spend time choosing the right bed, mattress, and linen, but overlook the one piece we interact with first thing in the morning and last at night.
One of the most common mistakes people make when buying a bedside table is not considering its height in relation to the bed. That miscalculation leads to a disjointed look, physical strain, and furniture that doesn’t serve its purpose. Whether you’re redesigning your space or furnishing a new bedroom, getting the nightstand height right is a key part of functional, ergonomic, and visually balanced design.
The Ideal Nightstand Height: What Works and Why
The general design principle is this: your nightstand should be equal to the height of your mattress, or no more than 5 centimeters higher or lower. This ensures ease of access to everyday items like your phone, alarm clock, reading materials, or a bedside lamp.
Why This Matters
A nightstand that’s too tall can create strain on your shoulder and wrist when reaching up. One that’s too low can require you to lean down every time you need something, which might not sound like much until it’s 2 a.m. and you’re half-asleep reaching for a glass of water.
More importantly, aligning the bedside table height with your mattress creates visual symmetry in your bedroom. It maintains balance with the bed frame and other furniture pieces, contributing to a cohesive look.
How to Measure Your Bed for the Right Nightstand Height
Before purchasing a bedside table, measure the distance from the floor to the top of your mattress. Once you have that number, search for nightstands that fall within ±5 centimeters of that measurement.
For example, if your mattress is 65 cm from the ground, look for a nightstand between 60 and 70 cm high.
This rule offers enough flexibility for personal comfort while still delivering a clean and functional layout.
Adjusting for Different Bed Styles
Not all beds are created equal, and your nightstand should reflect that. Below are guidelines based on common bed types:
| Bed Type | Ideal Nightstand Height |
|---|---|
| Platform Bed | 45–60 cm |
| Standard Mattress & Base | 60–75 cm |
| Pillow-Top or Box Spring Beds | 75–90 cm |
These aren’t hard rules, but starting points. If your bed is higher due to a plush mattress or frame, you’ll want a taller nightstand to match. For low-slung beds, like Japanese-inspired or Scandinavian platform styles, shorter tables make more sense both functionally and visually.
The Rise of Adjustable Bedside Tables
One option that often goes unnoticed—but offers exceptional flexibility—is the adjustable-height bedside table. These are particularly useful in shared rooms, guest rooms, or for people who frequently change their mattress or bed frame setup.
Adjustable bedside tables can:
- Accommodate different mattress heights
- Serve multiple functions (e.g., as a laptop desk or reading stand)
- Adapt to seated or standing use in multipurpose spaces
In modern bedrooms where versatility matters, having an adjustable table ensures the space evolves with your lifestyle.
Beyond Height: What Makes a Great Nightstand?
Once height is addressed, there are other practical and aesthetic factors to consider:
1. Storage Needs
Think about what you keep at arm’s reach: books, glasses, medication, electronics, etc. A drawer or shelf can help contain clutter, while open designs create a more spacious look.
2. Materials and Build
Choose materials that align with both your lifestyle and your interior design style. Solid wood offers warmth and durability. Metal and glass can lean modern or industrial. Engineered wood provides affordability and ease of movement for renters or apartment dwellers.
3. Design Proportion
The size of the nightstand should correspond to your bed and bedroom layout. A large king-size bed will dwarf a small table, while a chunky nightstand may overwhelm a small room or minimalist setup.
4. Visual Balance
In rooms with twin nightstands, symmetry is important. However, mismatched tables can work in asymmetrical layouts as long as they share a visual language—such as similar height, finish, or proportion.
Where to Find Well-Made Nightstands in Australia
If you're ready to upgrade, explore the curated selection at Dshop. The range includes styles that work across all modern Australian home aesthetics—from clean and contemporary to rustic and traditional. You’ll find adjustable-height tables, compact units for small spaces, and multi-drawer bedside cabinets for those who prioritize storage.
Dshop’s collection is particularly well-suited to practical living—ideal for homeowners, renters, or anyone looking to furnish a bedroom with quality and intention.
Creating a Cohesive Bedroom Environment
Choosing the right nightstand height is not just a technical decision—it’s part of designing a bedroom that supports the way you live. The right bedside table feels effortless to use, adds character to the space, and improves your daily routine, from winding down at night to getting started in the morning.
When paired with a comfortable bed, proper lighting, and storage that fits your lifestyle, a well-proportioned nightstand becomes part of a complete ecosystem designed for comfort and calm.
Elevate Your Space with a Beautiful Dressing Table
Once you’ve found the perfect bedside tables, why not complete the look with a matching touch of elegance? A thoughtfully chosen dressing table from Dshop can instantly elevate your bedroom—offering both style and practical storage. Whether you’re getting ready for the day or winding down in the evening, a dedicated space for your beauty essentials, jewellery, and daily rituals adds a sense of calm and luxury to your routine.
Many of Dshop’s dressing tables come with integrated mirrors or coordinated mirror options—so you can get ready in style, without leaning over your bathroom sink like a gremlin. A well-placed mirror also reflects light, making your bedroom feel brighter, more open, and, let’s be honest, more Instagrammable.
Explore Dshop’s curated bedroom collection to find a piece
