Should your bed be higher than your nightstand?

 

When furnishing your bedroom, you probably focus on style, comfort, and storage. But one question often gets overlooked until the furniture is already in place: Should your bed be higher than your nightstand, or the other way around?

While it might seem like a small detail, the relationship between bed and nightstand height can impact comfort, functionality, and even the overall look of your bedroom. We help homeowners across New Jersey design bedrooms that are both beautiful and practical, and that includes getting the height balance just right.

In this guide, we’ll explore why bed and nightstand heights matter, how to choose the right proportions for your space, and a few expert tips you might not find elsewhere.

 

Why Bed and Nightstand Height Matters?

A nightstand serves more than just a visual role, it’s a practical spot to keep your bedside lamp, reading material, alarm clock, or even that late-night glass of water within arm’s reach. When the height doesn’t match your bed properly, you might find yourself awkwardly reaching too far up or down in the middle of the night.

Here’s why it matters:

Comfort – If your nightstand is too low, you’ll be stretching down uncomfortably. Too high, and you’ll feel like you’re reaching over a small wall.

Safety – Awkward reaches can lead to spills, knocked-over lamps, or even minor bumps when you’re half-asleep.

Aesthetics – Balanced proportions help your room feel visually harmonious. A mismatch can make the entire setup look off-kilter.

 

Should the Bed Be Higher Than the Nightstand?

There’s no universal “must” here, it’s about proportion and comfort. However, many interior designers, including our team at NJ Furniture Mart, recommend keeping your nightstand dresser surface level with or slightly above your mattress height.

Why slightly above works:

·       Easier reach when lying down.

·       Keeps items visible and accessible.

·       Offers a subtle layered look that feels intentional.

Why level works:

·       Creates symmetry and a clean, continuous visual line.

·       Prevents your hand from knocking over items when reaching sideways in the dark.

Why going too high or too low doesn’t work well:

·       A nightstand significantly higher than the bed feels imposing and less comfortable to use.

·       A nightstand much lower than the bed can feel like it’s “falling away” from the layout, making items harder to reach.

 

How to Measure for the Perfect Fit?

Finding the right height balance starts with measuring your bed correctly.

1. Begin by measuring the space from the floor up to the very top surface of your mattress.

This is your baseline measurement.

2. Aim for the nightstand surface to be within 2–4 inches of that height.

For instance, if your mattress sits 25 inches above the ground, aim for a nightstand that falls between 23 and 27 inches in height.

3. Consider bedding layers.

Thick mattress toppers or plush comforters can add height, measure after your bed is fully dressed.

We carry a range of nightstand heights so you can match your exact measurement rather than compromising on comfort.

 

Design Considerations Beyond Height

While height is important, it’s not the only factor to think about. Your nightstand should complement your bed in more ways than one.

1. Style Harmony: If your bed frame is sleek and modern, a chunky, oversized nightstand might feel mismatched. Likewise, an ornate traditional bed might look odd next to a minimalist metal stand.

2. Width and Depth: Ensure the width of your nightstand complements the size of your bed for a balanced and well-scaled appearance. For a king-size bed, a single small can look underwhelming, consider a pair of larger ones.

3. Storage Needs: Do you need drawers for books and chargers, or just a simple tabletop for a lamp and glass of water? NJ Furniture Mart’s curated collections range from open-concept stands to full storage units.

4. Material and Finish: Matching the tone, texture, or finish of your nightstand to your bed frame helps create a seamless and unified bedroom design. If you want contrast, make sure it’s intentional, like pairing a walnut stand with a white upholstered bed.

 

When Your Bed Is Adjustable or Extra-High?

Many modern beds, including adjustable bases and platform frames with storage drawers, sit higher than traditional box-spring setups.

If your bed is extra-high:

·       Choose a taller nightstand or even a small chest that functions as one.

·       Keep the top surface close to your mattress height for ease of use.

If your bed height changes (like with an adjustable frame):

·       Opt for a nightstand height that matches your bed’s most common position.

·       Adjustable nightstands do exist, though they’re less common, NJ Furniture Mart can special-order them for customers who need flexibility.

 

How to Create Balance When Heights Don’t Match?

Sometimes, you fall in love with a nightstand that doesn’t perfectly match your bed height, and that’s okay. You can still make it work with a few styling tricks:

·       Add stacked books or trays to raise frequently used items closer to bed height.

·       Use taller lamps on lower nightstands to visually balance the space.

·       Incorporate art or wall décor to shift the visual focus upward if the stand feels short.

Our design consultants often help customers work with existing furniture to create balance, so you don’t always have to start from scratch.

 

Smart Bedroom Solutions for Comfort and Style

At here, we believe your bedroom should feel like a personal retreat, comfortable, stylish, and tailored to your needs. That’s why our showroom offers:

·       Multiple height options for every bed style.

·       Matching and mix-and-match sets so you can choose a cohesive look or a more eclectic design.

·       Expert guidance from our in-house team to help you get the perfect proportions, whether your bed is ultra-low, mid-height, or extra-tall.

·       Quality craftsmanship from trusted brands that focus on durability and style.

From classic wooden to sleek modern designs, you’ll find the right combination to suit your home and lifestyle.

 

So, should your bed be higher than your nightstand? The best answer is: not by much, and ideally, your nightstand should be level with or slightly above your mattress for comfort and visual appeal.

Getting this detail right might seem minor, but it can make a noticeable difference in how your bedroom looks and feels. Whether you’re redesigning your entire bedroom or simply upgrading your bedside table, a thoughtful approach to proportion ensures a harmonious, functional space.

At NJ Furniture Mart, we make it easy to find nightstands and beds that work together perfectly, so you can focus on enjoying your space, not wrestling with awkward furniture heights.