Bedside Tables Large
Large Bedside Tables: Your Complete Guide to Sizing, Proportion, and Buying
Key Takeaways
• Large bedside tables are typically 30-36 inches wide and 27-30 inches tall 📏
• Aim for nightstand height within 0-4 inches of mattress top 🛏️
• Choose wider tables (30"+) for king beds, 26"+ for queen beds 👑
• Consider storage needs - large tables offer 40-50% more space 📦
• Match table style and finish to your overall bedroom design 🎨
Finding the perfect bedside table can make or break your bedroom's functionality and look. For those with king or queen beds, high mattresses, or spacious bedrooms, standard nightstands often fall short. They might not give you enough storage, look too small, or just not work well. This guide will help you pick the ideal large bedside table that fits your space and meets your needs.
What Counts as a "Large" Bedside Table? 📐
Before we dive in, let's clear up what makes a bedside table "large":
• Height: Standard nightstands are 23-28 inches tall. Large ones start at 30+ inches (tall) and go up to 35+ inches (extra-tall) for high beds.
• Width: Normal width is 21-28 inches. Wide nightstands start at 28+ inches, with some as wide as 36 inches.
• Depth: Most nightstands are 16-20 inches deep. Larger options go from 19-30 inches for lots of storage.
You might want to look at large bedside tables if you:
• Have a high bed (with box springs or thick mattress toppers)
• Sleep on a king or California king size bed
• Need lots of storage for books, devices, and personal items
• Have a big master bedroom where normal furniture looks too small
• Want enough space for multiple bedside items
As one designer puts it, "You don't want tiny 'dollhouse-sized' nightstands next to a King bed, especially in a large room." The right size creates a nice look rather than clashing with your bed.
Size It to Your Bed: Making Sure You Can Reach 🤲
No matter how good a nightstand looks, how well it works is more important than how it looks. Keep these height rules in mind:
• The Golden Rule: Your nightstand's top should be within 3-4 inches of your mattress height (level with or slightly above is best)
• How to Measure: Measure from floor to top of your mattress—then look for nightstands within 3 inches above or below that measurement
• Mattress Height Guide:
Mattress Height | Ideal Nightstand Height | Bed Type Examples |
---|---|---|
18"-22" | 20"-25" | Modern platform beds |
23"-27" | 25"-30" | Standard beds with box springs |
28"+ | 30"+ | High beds with thick mattresses |
One designer explains: "Unless you have a very low bed, I always prefer my nightstand to be at least 30 inches tall to look right and work well."
Width by Bed Size: Making It Look Good 👀
Your nightstand's width should match your bed size without taking over the room. This creates a nice look and stops that "tiny table next to a huge bed" problem.
• Twin Bed: 17"-20" wide (though if using one table between twin beds, 24"+ works better)
• Full/Queen Bed: 20"-30" wide (aim for 28-30" for true large-table function)
• King Bed: 24"+, with 30-36" looking best in spacious bedrooms
Another expert notes: "The bed should be the tallest item in the space, as tiny nightstands tend to look silly next to huge beds." When you have the room, two 36-inch nightstands create an impressive look that matches a king bed's size well.
Depth, Storage, and How It Works in Large Spaces 🗄️
People often forget about depth, but it's crucial for large bedside table function:
• Standard depth: 16"-20" (works for lamps and basics)
• Deep storage options: 19"-30" (better for books, devices, and multiple items)
When picking a large bedside table, think about:
• Drawer setup: Two deep drawers > three shallow ones for serious storage needs
• Top space: At least 16" x 22" surface for comfortable lamp + book placement
• Cable management: Built-in holes or ports for charging phones/tablets
• Open vs. closed storage: Open shelves give quick access but show clutter
For maximum storage, think about using a small chest or dresser as a nightstand—these often give you plenty of height (35"+), more depth (20"+), and multiple drawers perfect for storing linens. Just make sure the top surface stays close to mattress height.
If you're looking for a bedside table with lots of storage, the Florida Bedside 3 Drawers might be a great option. It offers ample space for all your nighttime essentials.
Room Planning: Space, Clearance, and Layout 🏠
Even the most beautiful large nightstand fails if it messes up your bedroom flow. Follow these space-planning rules:
• Keep 1-2 inches space from bed frame and wall
• Allow at least 18 inches for easy walking between bed and furniture
• Make sure drawers can open fully (measure wall-to-bed distance)
• Check door swing space if your bedroom doors open inward
For rooms with multiple beds:
• Two matching nightstands create balance in king/queen rooms
• One shared table between twin beds should cover the walkway (aim for 30"+ wide)
• If using different sized tables, keep height difference under 2 inches or use wall lights instead
Remember that a large nightstand shouldn't take over your room—if your bedroom feels cramped after placing it, go for a narrower option or think about wall-mounted alternatives.
Style and Material Choices for Larger Pieces 🎭
Big furniture creates visual weight—choose materials wisely:
• Visual Lightness: Open-leg designs, lighter colors, or glass tops make it look less bulky
• Material Balance: Pair heavy wood tables with light bedding; match metal frames with industrial lighting
• Color Strategy: Darker nightstands ground larger spaces; lighter ones blend in small rooms
• Proportion Tip: Higher headboards go well with taller nightstands to keep the bed as the main focus
If using slightly different heights on each side, match lamp heights to create a consistent look. Designers often suggest wall sconces instead of table lamps when nightstands are very different—mount them at the same height for perfect balance no matter what furniture you use.
For a stylish option that adds visual interest to your bedroom, consider the Folkestone 2 Drawer Bedside Table. Its unique design can complement various bedroom styles.
The Ultimate Buying Checklist ✅
Before buying a large bedside table, check these six things:
- Mattress Height Match: Measure from floor to top of mattress (including topper)
- Available Width: Confirm space between bed and wall (minus 2" for clearance)
- Living Depth: Measure needed storage space (add 3" beyond deepest item)
- Drawer Dimensions: Check inside measurements—especially height for taller items
- Delivery Logistics: Make sure it fits through doorways (many large nightstands come in pieces)
- Power Needs: Check outlet location and cable management features
Pro tip: Bring a photo of your bedroom when shopping—seeing the piece in context prevents size mistakes that look fine in-store but overwhelm at home.
"Large" Nightstand Dimensions to Target 🎯
Based on bed size, here are ideal dimensions for truly large bedside tables:
By Bed Type
Bed Size | Best Width | Ideal Height Range | Best Depth |
---|---|---|---|
Queen | 26"-30" | 27"-32" | 18"-22" |
King | 30"-36" | 28"-33" | 20"-24" |
California King | 32"-38" | 29"-34" | 20"-25" |
By Function Needs
Storage Priority | Width | Height | Depth | Key Features |
---|---|---|---|---|
Maximum Storage | 30"+ | 30"+ | 20"+ | 3+ drawers, cable management |
Balanced Utility | 26"-28" | 26"-28" | 18"-20" | 2 drawers + open shelf |
Space-Limited Large | 24"-26" | 29"-32" | 16"-18" | Narrow but tall profile |
If you're looking for a balance between storage and style, the Perisher 2 Drawer Messmate Timber Bedside Table could be an excellent choice. It offers both functionality and aesthetic appeal.
Final Thoughts Before You Buy 🤔
Before making your final large bedside table choice, ask these important questions:
- Will it hold both my devices and books? (Check for wire management)
- How will lamp height affect the overall look? (Base + bulb should clear mattress edge)
- Does it work well with my bed frame height? (Keep bed as tallest visual element)
- Will delivery be a problem? (Measure stairwells and doorways)
- Does the finish match my overall room style? (Remember: complement, not match)
When sized correctly, a large bedside table doesn't just hold your nighttime stuff—it anchors your bedroom design, creates functional harmony, and makes the space feel special. As one designer wisely says: "Your nightstand's height should be mattress height or lower to create a sense of order. The bed should be the tallest item in the space."
For those who prefer a classic look, the Royal Charm Antique White Bedside Drawers could be the perfect addition to your bedroom, offering both elegance and functionality.
Conclusion
With the right measurements and proportions, your large bedside table will not only fit your room—it will make your entire bedroom experience better. It will blend practical storage with intentional design. Now go find that perfect oversized companion for your bed!