If you don’t have a night table, there are plenty of alternatives that can still keep your nighttime items organized and within easy reach. A few ideas include an upcycled dresser, chest drawers, or box frame.
If you are looking for wall-mounted solutions, you could use floating shelves, wall cubbies, or a pegboard. Alternatively, a folding table, trunk, or storage bench can all provide extra storage from the floor up.
For a unique look, vintage crates, a bar cart, or an old stepladder can be repurposed into an eye-catching nightstand. For those who want to veer away from traditional nightstands altogether, there are options such as a chairside caddy, a kitchen/bathroom stool, a ladder shelf, or a hanging shelf to choose from.
What to do when you don’t have a nightstand?
When you don’t have a nightstand, there are several creative alternatives for keeping your lamp, alarm clock, and other small items nearby. Here are some ideas:
1. Hang a floating shelf above your bed. If your bed is close to the wall, this is a great way to store smaller items like your phone, books, or other bedside essentials.
2. Convert an end table. If you have an end table nearby, you can repurpose it as a nightstand. Just add a lamp and any other items you need to make it functional.
3. Put storage baskets or drawers on the floor. Tall storage baskets or small drawers can be placed on the floor next to your bed. This is a great way to store extra books, phone chargers, and other bedside items without taking up too much space.
4. Utilize a dresser. If you have an unused dresser in the room, you can move it near your bed and use it as a makeshift nightstand. If it has drawers, you can store larger items like clothing and bedding.
5. Hang wall-mounted shelves. Installing wall-mounted shelves is another smart solution for storing small items next to your bed. You can store books, lamps, and other bedside items on these shelves.
No matter what your budget or space is, there are plenty of ways to create a nightstand or an alternative when you don’t have one. With a few creative ideas, you can make the most of any room.
Can you use a side table as a nightstand?
Yes, you can definitely use a side table as a nightstand. Side tables come in a variety of shapes and sizes, so you can choose one that best fits the space you have available in your bedroom. Side tables also come in plenty of styles, from classic to contemporary, so you can easily find one to match your bedroom decor.
Most side tables will have one or more shelves and drawers, which can be used to store a variety of items, from books and magazines to bedside essentials like a lamp, alarm clock, and reading glasses.
If you’re looking for something more discreet, some tables may even have secret compartments built in. A side table can also be used as a catch-all for things like your cell phone, wallet, jewelry, and other items that you want to keep close at hand without necessarily displaying them.
Using a side table as a nightstand can save you a lot of space in a smaller bedroom. Some side tables may even double as a seating option if they have a sturdy base and top. Consider pairing small stools or chairs with a side table to increase the function of the space.
What is the difference between a nightstand and a bedside table?
A nightstand and bedside table are both small tables that provide convenience and allow for more storage options, but they have different specific uses and can be used in different ways. A nightstand typically refers to a small table that is used to store items and objects that are easily accessible for nighttime activities, such as a lamp, books, reading materials, and a clock.
It is usually placed near or beside the bed and meant to be within reach of both people in the bed or anyone sleeping in the room. A bedside table may be taller and narrower than a nightstand and is typically used to display items such as pictures, lamps, and other decorative objects.
It is usually placed between the bed and the wall, with space left in between for items to be stored, such as a charger or extra books. Additionally, a nightstand usually comes with side drawers for even more storage capacity, whereas a bedside table usually does not come with such features.
Should nightstand be higher than bed?
The ideal height for a nightstand relative to a bed is a matter of personal preference, so there is no “right” or “wrong” answer. Some people prefer to have their nightstand at the same height as their bed, while others may opt for something higher.
Those who want greater convenience often opt to place their nightstand at a higher level than the bed. This eliminates the need to lean over the bed to access items on the nightstand, while also providing an ample surface area for night-time necessities.
Conversely, people who are afraid of heights may prefer their nightstand to be slightly lower than their bed. Whichever way you choose, keep in mind that it should be comfortable and easy for you to access the items you need at night without having to strain or reach.
Can nightstand be an end table?
Yes, a nightstand can be an end table. An end table is typically an accent furniture piece placed at the end of a sofa, loveseat, or chair. It is mainly used to display accents and items of personal interest, such as lamps, books, and decorative items.
While the primary purpose of a nightstand is to hold things like a lamp and alarm clock near the bed, it can also serve as an end table effectively. End tables come in many shapes, sizes, and styles, just like a nightstand, so depending on your needs and wants, you could use a nightstand as an end table.
What do you use side tables for?
Side tables are functional pieces of furniture that can be used in virtually any room in the home. They typically provide extra space for displaying items, such as lamps, plants, and photos, and offer a convenient spot to set a drink, snack, book, or remote.
Side tables can also provide an extra surface area for small items like keys, wallets, or phones that need easy access. Depending on the style and shape of the table, it can also be used as a centerpiece in some rooms, such as the living room or dining room.
Side tables make great additions to bedrooms and hallways as well. In bedrooms, they can be used to hold alarm clocks, lamps, and other personal items, while in hallways they are great for displaying photos or other decorative objects.
No matter what room you put one in, side tables bring style and practicality to any space.
What are side tables called?
Side tables are small, surface-top pieces of furniture that are commonly found in living rooms, bedrooms, and other living areas of one’s home. These tables are typically placed next to sofas, chairs, and beds to provide either a decorative accent or additional storage space.
Side tables are often referred to by many different names including end tables, nightstands, console tables, and accent tables. For example, a small table next to a sofa that has a lamp and some décor on it could be referred to as an end table, while a table that sits next to a bed that holds a lamp and some books may be called a nightstand.
Console tables are typically taller than the other side tables and often feature an accent piece on top. Finally, accent tables are usually more decorative items that have drawers and shelves for added storage.
Why do they call it a nightstand?
A nightstand is a small typically bedside table with drawers, usually placed next to a bed. The purpose of a nightstand is to provide easy access to items typically used at night such as reading materials, alarm clocks, and charging stations for phones and tablets.
The term “nightstand” is believed to have originated from the traditional bedroom practice of keeping necessary items such as reading materials in a shallow drawer close to the bed, to be utilized during the night.
The traditional concept of a “nightstand” was revived in the late 19th century and since then various forms of nightstands have been used by people. Today, nightstands are typically made of wood or metal and are available in many colors, styles and sizes to suit different tastes and spaces.
What nightstand means?
A nightstand is a small piece of furniture used for a variety of purposes near a bed. It typically has one or two drawers for storing items such as books and magazines, and usually has a flat surface on top which can be used for a lamp, alarm clock, phone, or other reading material.
Depending on the needs and size of the space, nightstands can come in various shapes and sizes, ranging from a small end table to a large chest. Nightstands are often made out of wood, metal, or plastic, but may also be made of glass or other materials.
When was the bedside table invented?
Early forms of the bedside table date back to the ancient Egyptians, who used furniture to place items like lamps, baskets and bowls next to their beds. This concept was further developed by the Greeks and Romans who utilized stone and metal tables.
As time progressed and furniture-making technologies evolved, the basic design of the bedside table started to become more common in households. By the 17th century, bedside tables were commonly seen and were used to keep items such as books, clocks and cups more conveniently accessible.
Since then, the design of the bedside table has become more varied and has been made of increasingly diverse materials, ranging from wood to more modern materials such as metal and plastic. Ultimately, the invention of the bedside table has helped make bedrooms more organized and efficient while making everyday tasks such as reading and writing convenient and effortless.
Can a nightstand be lower than the mattress?
Yes, a nightstand can be lower than the mattress. The height of the nightstand is dependent on the design of your bed and the height of the mattress. Many bed frames are designed to offer an adjustable height for the mattress, allowing for a nightstand to be placed lower than the mattress.
Additionally, there are nightstands specifically designed to be lower than the height of the mattress. Lower nightstands can be created by shortening the legs of existing nightstands, or finding a low-profile nightstand with a design that allows it to fit under the mattress.
It is also possible to build custom nightstands that perfect fit your bed and mattress.
What is the standard height for a nightstand?
The standard height for a nightstand is usually about 28 inches. However, this can vary depending on the size of the bed and the room, as well as other factors. A higher nightstand might be better for a tall bed, while a lower one might work better for a lower bed.
Additionally, if you want the nightstand to be functional, such as if you’re looking to use it as a working surface as well, it may be better to go with a taller option. For example, if you’re looking to use the nightstand to hold a lamp, it would be more functional to have it a bit higher.
It is also important to consider the style of the furniture you’re looking for, along with the other pieces in the room. This way, you can avoid pieces that are either too high or too low for the overall aesthetic.
It is also important to make sure that the nightstand is not so tall that someone could bump their head on it.
How do you know what size nightstand to buy?
When choosing a nightstand, size is an important factor to consider. If your bed is large, you may want to consider two nightstands so that you have enough room to keep items like reading materials, alarm clocks, and lamps.
The larger the bed, the larger you should look for in a nightstand. Generally, your nightstand should be at least slightly higher than the top of the mattress, so you may need to take that into consideration when making your decision.
You should also make sure the nightstand fits into your overall bedroom design. Consider the size of other furniture in the room and choose a nightstand that is in proportion. A nightstand should be wide enough to fit at least one lamp and other items.
Finally, consider the amount of storage you need. If you have a lot of items that you want to keep close to your bed, make sure you look for a nightstand with ample drawers.
Are end tables and nightstands the same height?
No, end tables and nightstands are typically not the same height. End tables are typically shorter than nightstands, which are typically around bed height. End tables are usually used for decorative purposes and for placing things like lamps, books or drinks.
They are generally lower than the arm of a sofa or chair, usually around 24 to 28 inches tall. On the other hand, nightstands are usually around the same height as most beds. This allows them to provide easy access to smaller items such as books, an alarm clock, or a glass of water.
Nightstands are usually between 24 to 36 inches tall. While there is no exact standard on table height, these are the typical sizes for both types of tables.
How close should a nightstand be to the bed?
The ideal distance between a bed and nightstand is around 16” from the headboard. This lets you easily access the surface of the nightstand from the mattress. If the nightstand and bed are too far away from each other, it can be difficult to reach the nightstand from your bed, especially if there are pieces of furniture or rugs in between.
Additionally, it can be difficult to create a cohesive look in the space if the nightstand and bed are too far apart. If you have a big bed, you can consider getting two nightstands so that they’re situated on either side of the bed, allowing for more surface area, more comfortable access, and a more stylish look.
How wide is a standard nightstand?
The width of a standard nightstand will vary depending on the type and style of nightstand. Generally, most freestanding nightstands typically come in two standard widths; a narrow nightstand is around 17 inches wide and a wide nightstand is between 24-30 inches wide.
The width will also vary based on any additional features the nightstand might have, such as drawers, shelves, and cup holders, that can add extra inches in width. Additionally, wall-mounted nightstands are often a bit narrower, usually between 18-24 inches wide.
No matter the size or type, it is important to pay attention to width in order to ensure that the nightstand will fit in the space you have available.
How much should you spend on nightstand?
The amount you should spend on a nightstand will depend on a few factors, including how much storage you need, the size of the nightstand, and the type of material you prefer. Generally, a good quality nightstand can range anywhere from $50 to $500+.
If you’re looking for a more stylish, designer-looking piece, you may spend a little bit more, depending on the brand you choose. If you are on a budget, you can still find nice nightstands for around $100 or less if you shop around.
Decide what features you need in a nightstand and how much storage you want. This will determine what kind of size you’ll need and help you decide your budget. Consider buying two smaller nightstands instead of one large one as they are usually less expensive and can be placed on either side of the bed providing more storage and a better overall look.
Does bed and nightstand have to match?
It is not necessary for a bed and nightstand to match. Whether or not you choose to match them is really a matter of personal preference. Some people prefer to have pieces of furniture in a room to match, while others might like to combine different styles and finishes to create an eclectic look.
Ultimately, it comes down to which style you prefer and what works best in your space.
In terms of functionality, a bed and nightstand don’t need to match, as long as they provide adequate storage and sleeping space. That said, if you are looking to create a cohesive design in your room, matching pieces can add visual interest, while still providing the necessary practical elements.
If you prefer a more eclectic look, you could choose a bed and nightstand that contrast in color, shape and texture, but still complement each other.
It’s important to remember that whatever combination you choose, you should keep the overall design theme of your room in mind. Mixing and matching furniture styles that contrast too much can result in a room that looks disjointed and chaotic.
Ultimately, the choice of whether to match a bed and nightstand or not is yours and should be determined by what looks and works best for your individual space.
