Best Nightstands

Jump To Our Picks

Nightstands were originally designed to hold a basin and a pitcher of water on top, and a commode or “thunder mug” in the open lower area. The drawer in the middle held such personal items as might be needed. Over the centuries they have evolved to be a place where a bedside lamp can be placed along with an alarm clock, chargers for digital devices or similar items, or perhaps even a book. The central drawer is still a safe place for small items. The lower area sometimes has added drawers or enclosed shelves that can be used for storage.

15 Recommendations and 0 Ideas

Updated 30/03/2022
Foter is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Why trust us?
1
Honeycomb Pattern Nightstand

Honeycomb Pattern Nightstand

What we like: Well-sized drawers

What we don’t like: Not solid wood all the way through

Not so great for: Narrow bedrooms

Perfect for: Larger/wider bedrooms

The unique design of this nightstand is complemented by the honeycomb pattern displayed across it. We love the sleek, clean-lined silhouette that’s perfect for the modern minimalist trend. It is crafted from a blend of solid mahogany and engineered wood. Available in bright white or black with gold legs, we think the white option would look stunning in a contemporary bedroom.

Undeniably chic, this nightstand also features two well-sized drawers. Each equally sized, they feature a subtle gold handle for easy access. As it measures twenty-six inches tall and twenty-four wide, we recommend this nightstand for larger rooms. In narrower rooms, it will overwhelm and make the room seem smaller.

Merchant links are sponsored
2
Coastal Nightstand

Coastal Nightstand

What we like: Wide shelf beneath

What we don’t like: Unfinished back

Not so great for: If you hate DIY

Perfect for: A coastal/farmhouse décor scheme

An excellent option if you’re a big fan of coastal farmhouse design, this nightstand is impeccably on-trend. Charmingly rural but not too old-fashioned, the deliberately distressed design stands out. Made from a mixture of solid and manufactured wood in America, it comes with an antique white finish.

Featuring one smallish drawer and a widely-spaced shelf beneath, it’s great for odd bits and pieces. The vintage-inspired turned legs offer an attractive accent touch as well as allowing for more storage. It does require assembly, but all the tools you will need are included – still, it may not be the best choice if you’re not DIY-inclined. 

Merchant links are sponsored
3
Traditional Nightstand

Traditional Nightstand

What we like: Traditional design details

What we don’t like: Smaller shelf storage

Not so great for: Storing lots of items

Perfect for: A cottage aesthetic

Full of vintage charm, this nightstand features one drawer and a shelf. We’re obsessed with the small touches like the cabriole legs and bin pull drawer. These details are what give it that retro flair that’s ideal for creating a cozy cottage atmosphere in your bedroom. Take it one step further and pair your nightstand with a fringed rug on the bed and a candle for the ultimate cozy look.

It is available in seven colors, including walnut and off-white. Although the shelf isn’t super-wide, we think it would be a great place to store your latest bedtime read. As the cabriole legs turn slightly inwards, your books will have something to lean against. 

Merchant links are sponsored
4
Open Shelf Nightstand
EXILOT Nightstand Mid-Century Modern Bedside Table with Solid Wood Legs Minimalist and Practical End Side Table, Grey.
EXILOT Nightstand Mid-Century Modern Bedside Table with Solid Wood Legs Minimalist and Practical End Side Table, Grey.
EXILOT Nightstand Mid-Century Modern Bedside Table with Solid Wood Legs Minimalist and Practical End Side Table, Grey.
EXILOT Nightstand Mid-Century Modern Bedside Table with Solid Wood Legs Minimalist and Practical End Side Table, Grey.
EXILOT Nightstand Mid-Century Modern Bedside Table with Solid Wood Legs Minimalist and Practical End Side Table, Grey.

Open Shelf Nightstand

What we like: Clean-lined silhouette

What we don’t like: Narrow shelving can’t store much

Not so great for: Rustic décor styles

Perfect for: A mid-century modern décor scheme

Combining understated minimalism and the mid-century modern trend together, this nightstand has a sleek and sophisticated look. You can pick from three colors - gray, white, or light walnut - all of which have solid beech wood legs in a natural hue. Plus, non-slip rubber pads on the bottom will prevent any scratching. 

It features one larger shelf that is still relatively narrow and a small nook at the top that could fit items like an alarm clock. As the design is open all the way through, you’ll have easy access to plug sockets for charging. It does require assembly but not much, so you won’t be struggling for hours. 

Merchant links are sponsored
5
Natural Look Nightstand
Selah 22'' Tall Solid Wood Tree Stump End Table
Selah 22'' Tall Solid Wood Tree Stump End Table
Selah 22'' Tall Solid Wood Tree Stump End Table
Customer Photo
Selah 22'' Tall Solid Wood Tree Stump End Table
Customer Photo
Selah 22'' Tall Solid Wood Tree Stump End Table
Customer Photo

Natural Look Nightstand

Sand & Stable™

What we like: Uses natural materials

What we don’t like: No storage included

Not so great for: If you require a drawer

Perfect for: A large bedside table lamp

Bring the outside world into your bedroom with this beautiful nightstand. It utilizes natural resources to create a product completely unique to you. Constructed from reclaimed solid teak wood, the natural wood grain will make a striking focal point in your room. You can pick from a white or dark-natural base.

The standout feature of this table is the twisted leg design, which is reminiscent of a tangled tree stump. Gorgeous and unusual, a potential downside is that no storage is included. Nevertheless, the rustic design is a wonderful way to create a magical atmosphere in any room. Plus, you can impress guests by telling them your table is one-of-a-kind. 

$122.99 $308

Merchant links are sponsored
6
Canterbury End Table with Storage

Canterbury End Table with Storage

Poplar Wood with French dovetail construction sets this nightstand apart from the rest. Oval, it is a smaller piece than other common tables at 27'' H x 23.75'' W x 20'' D. However, its compact size does not take away from the traditional charm that it omits. A centered pull out drawer and open bottom shelve make this piece convenient for storing remotes, papers and keys. A lovely addition to a side chair as well as a couch in a contemporary or formal type of living space.

Merchant links are sponsored
7
Gassville Manufactured Wood 2 Drawer Nightstand

Gassville Manufactured Wood 2 Drawer Nightstand

Modern with straight lines and adequate storage, this contemporary styled night stand shows natural grain highlights in the wood. Made of manufactured wood, there are two drawers and a top cubby for creams, books, or jewelry. Raised on solid legs, it is refined in looks and perfect for modern and transitional decors. Available in gray or black, it will match many types of bed frames or even look radiant in a corner alone. Surround with a small metal lamp and a picture frame of silver to offset its beauty.

Merchant links are sponsored
8
Dmitry End Table

Dmitry End Table

If you need a change from your bedroom furniture, try replacing the nightstands. This gently trimmed nightstand makes a savory statement on contemporary style with sleek lines and slightly curved legs. There is plenty of storage room with two generous drawers and a lower rack.  Not only suitable as a nightstand, but a living room side table or handsome hallway addition, this unit is available in a variety of colors for mixing decors.

Merchant links are sponsored
9
Kamille Single Hairpin Leg 1 Drawer Nightstand
Routh 25.25'' Tall 1 - Drawer Nightstand
Routh 25.25'' Tall 1 - Drawer Nightstand
Routh 25.25'' Tall 1 - Drawer Nightstand
Customer Photo
Routh 25.25'' Tall 1 - Drawer Nightstand
Customer Photo
Routh 25.25'' Tall 1 - Drawer Nightstand
Customer Photo

Kamille Single Hairpin Leg 1 Drawer Nightstand

Hairpin metal legs give this modern nightstand a bright stenciled look. Holding up a plain box-like wood cabinet, it is a picture of natural beauty. The drawer measures 3.5'' H x 14.25'' W x 12'' D for storing small items, like glasses, tissues and jewelry. A cubby between the drawer and top shelf is high enough to hold 3 moderate sized books. The wood grain finish captures a fine setting for contemporary or transitional urban industrial. Black legs and metal pull will look splendid alongside an antique metal bed frame.

$135.99 $339

Merchant links are sponsored
10
Nealon End Table with Storage 

Nealon End Table with Storage 

Styled for today's living, this small streamlined nightstand is great for small spaces and wherever you need an extra stand to throw your keys. Made of solid acacia wood, it is not only chic, but sturdy as well. One full drawer pulls out to store bedside trinkets while an open base can hold your books and papers. A variety of colors lets you choose your decor. Anything from gray or black for modern to orange or red for chic country or eclectic. Measuring 23'' H x 17'' W x 15'' D, it will never get in your way.

Merchant links are sponsored
11
Rossford 1 Drawer Nightstand

Rossford 1 Drawer Nightstand

Meek and handsome, this wooden oak table is a symbol of how utterly beautiful the grains of wood can be. Although small in stance, the overlying top gives this nightstand a look of dignity and grace. An antique metal pull handle allows the top drawer to move smoothly on roller glides. An open space at the bottom can serve for books or other loose items. Charming in any type of traditional setting, don't leave out urban industrial or chic country with the fabulous wood tones.

Merchant links are sponsored
12
Shreya 1 Drawer Nightstand

Shreya 1 Drawer Nightstand

This nightstand delivers style and elegance. Very fitting in a contemporary decor, it also has a simple silhouette to use for modern, chic or beach house decorating. An arched front between the feet brings a touch of sophistication whereas the rest of the unit is squared and simple. With a top that is 23.25'' W x 16.5'' D, it can easily hold a small lamp and still have room for a picture frame and more. By using one at each side of your bed, you will be able to use them to add color and depth with flowers, frames and light.

Merchant links are sponsored
13
Lyle 4 Legs End Table with Storage

Lyle 4 Legs End Table with Storage

Retro is back and sets this clever nightstand in a smart and classy fit to a modern bedroom or living room. One single drawer occupies a spot on top of angled legs to bring a statement of more than contemporary, but less than eclectic in design.  Neutral colors let this simple wood grained table to keep the basic fundamental of charm and storage balanced and proportionate. Almost any decor will benefit from this lovely piece when placed accordingly.

Merchant links are sponsored
14
Kuhn Modern Square Nightstand (Set of 2)
Kuhn 18'' Tall Metal Nightstand in Brown
Kuhn 18'' Tall Metal Nightstand in Brown
Kuhn 18'' Tall Metal Nightstand in Brown
Kuhn 18'' Tall Metal Nightstand in Brown
Kuhn 18'' Tall Metal Nightstand in Brown

Kuhn Modern Square Nightstand (Set of 2)

A simple solution to needed space, this nightstand gives two platforms for light, reading materials and personal items. No drawers, just open space with two shelves for holding essential items. Made of metal and manufactured wood, this table is a 20'' H x 20'' W x 20'' D clean-lined and tastefully designed piece of furniture. Wherever you feel a need for this contemporary boost, place it among your finest furnishings.

Merchant links are sponsored
15
Justice Nightstand

Justice Nightstand

This adorable country nightstand has a pleasant tone of nature and beauty with its slatted door and open shelf concept. A dignified country favorite for bedrooms or living rooms alike, the warm neutral colors exhibit country barn charm and a place for storing items to keep a room need and clean. Measuring at 24'' H x 18'' W x 15.75'' D, this piece can feel at home in any room that needs a natural cozy addition.

Merchant links are sponsored
Best Nightstands

Buying Guide

Although they don’t store much, nightstands are a surprisingly important piece of bedroom furniture. Many people put small lamps and clocks on them, and some use them to store glasses and contacts for easy access in the morning.

Nightstands should be both functional and attractive, and there are a nearly endless number of options to choose from. Here’s what to look for when shopping for a nightstand.

Nightstands should be roughly even with the top of the bed. The tops of most mattresses end up around 24” off the ground, so a nightstand between 22” and 26” is best.

The width and depth of a nightstand can vary as well, but most nightstands are around 12”-18” wide and 12” deep on top. Nightstands that are larger than this may be hard to reach while lying in bed.

Occasionally, nightstands will be available with unusual top shapes, like hearts or triangles. However, most are made with square, rectangular, or round tops. Bedrooms with lots of round or flowing accents should have a circular nightstand, while square or rectangular nightstands will match a room with harder angles in the rest of the furniture.

Round tops are a very safe choice for families since they have no corners for young children to hit their head on. Square or rectangular nightstands sometimes have rounded corners that are also safe for children. Even if you’re shopping for the master bedroom, consider getting a nightstand with rounded corners or a round top for safety.

To a certain extent, materials are a matter of preference. However, there are definite pros and cons to each one. Buyers should consider whether they expect the nightstand to last for decades, or whether they will likely sell it at some point. Children and teens, in particular, may want to replace their nightstand as their sense of style changes.

Some nightstands use a combination of materials. It’s especially common for modern nightstands to have metal legs with another material for the top and drawers. This provides a sleek appearance with all the benefits of each material.

  • Wood.

Wood gives a beautiful, classic look and can last for years. Wood nightstands can even be passed down as heirlooms if they are cared for properly. Care must be taken to protect wood nightstand from water and other damage, but as a general rule, they can hold up to daily use and occasional spills.

Solid wood stands add a touch of opulence to your bedroom. Place nightstands in dark wood such as mahogany, walnut, or golden oak in traditionally styled rooms with plush textured bed linen and style with a classic Tiffany lamp.

Light-colored wood such as pine or distressed wood complement shabby chic and country-style rooms. Choose a nightstand with a light wood finish and antique hardware to create a stunning contrast.

  • Wood Composite.

Chipboard and other wood composites are commonly used in cheaper nightstands. Chipboard can last for years, but it requires a little more protection from spills and cup rings.

As composite is not as durable as solid wood, it makes a suitable addition to a guest bedroom or any room that is not used often. Composite comes in a range of finishes to match your décor. Pair your composite nightstand with luxe accent pieces such as metallic lamps and scented candles to elevate the style of the piece.

  • Plastic.

Plastic is unusual and is typically only used in children’s furniture. It can be a safe choice for children or elderly individuals who are prone to falling.

Plastic nightstands can be molded into a variety of different shapes to create novelty nightstands that can make a dramatic statement in your bedroom. Ideally suited to the eclectic and mod-style bedroom, pair with understated accessories and lighting to let the design of the nightstand shine.

  • Metal.

Aluminum and steel nightstands are uncommon, but they can provide a more modern touch. They can be surprisingly lightweight, especially if they are made with hollow supports.

Try choosing a metal frame nightstand with a wooden top. This balances the cool tones of metal with warm wood to create a harmonious space. Ornate wrought iron nightstands coordinate well with country, shabby chic, and transitional spaces, while metal stands with clean lines work well in industrial bedrooms.

  • Wicker and Rattan

Wicker nightstands add an earthy touch to any room. They are a little more fragile and less water-resistant than other materials but can still last for decades. Despite their appearance, they can still hold substantial weight, including books.

Use a wicker or rattan nightstands to add texture and contrast to Scandinavian or contemporary styled bedrooms. Greenery and displays of books make excellent accessories, and the natural fibers in the stands complement and tone down boldly patterned bed linen.

Most nightstands have at least one drawer. Multiple drawers make it easier to store medication, tissues, or other items that would otherwise need to be stored in the bathroom. However, avid readers may prefer a built-in shelf that makes it easy to access books.

Some nightstands even have cabinet doors that swing open. This can help store private items, especially if two or more people are using the nightstand.

Nightstands are available in a nearly limitless array of colors and designs. Some will have a contrasting drawer or top colors, but many are all one color.

Nightstands can be used to provide a pop of color to a neutral bedroom, but often, lamps or other furniture already provide this contrast. Plus, since nightstands sit below eye level, they are usually not the most apparent source of contrast.

Neutral colors or subtle, muted colors are popular for nightstands. Look for a nightstand that matches the bedframe or coordinates well with the bedding. For example, consider a slate blue nightstand to go with pale blue bedding.

  • Look for a nightstand that is between 22” and 26” high and 12” deep. The width can vary, but 12”-18” is best for accessibility.
  • The shape is largely a matter of preference, but you should avoid sharp corners in homes that have small children.
  • Wood and wood composite can both last a long time. Plastic, metal, and wicker are uncommon but can be durable options. Many nightstands use a combination of materials.
  • Look for nightstands with ample storage, especially if the nightstand will be used by two people. Drawers, open shelving, and small cabinets can all be helpful.
  • Try coordinating your nightstand with existing furniture or bedding. A subtle pop of color can be nice but may be overlooked since nightstands are small and below eye level.