Choose the Perfect Nightstand Height in 3 Simple Steps

Having the right nightstand height is crucial for comfort and accessibility when relaxing or sleeping in bed. But determining the ideal height for your needs doesn't have to be complicated. With just a few simple measurements and considerations, you can choose a nightstand height that allows you to easily access items from your bed.

Follow along to learn how to measure your mattress, select the perfect height, and adjust or customize if needed. With the right nightstand height, you'll enjoy convenience and a more comfortable sleep environment.

Step 1: Measure Your Mattress Height

The first step is measuring the height of your mattress from the floor to the top of the mattress. This measurement will determine the appropriate nightstand height.

Be sure to measure directly on top of the mattress - don't include the bed frame or box spring in your measurement. You specifically want to know the thickness of the mattress itself. Use a tape measure placed vertically from the floor up against the very top of the mattress.

Standard mattress thicknesses tend to range from as little as 6 inches for slimmer varieties up to 12 inches or more for thicker pillowtop mattresses. Write down your measurement - you'll need it for the next step.

Consider Mattress Height With or Without Box Spring

If you use a box spring under your mattress, make sure to measure from the floor to the top of the mattress - not the top of the box spring. The box spring height does not affect the nightstand height.

For mattresses placed directly on the floor or a platform bed frame, simply measure from the floor to the top of the mattress.

Knowing the exact mattress thickness is key for choosing the best nightstand height to match.

Common Mattress Heights

Here are some typical mattress heights to give you an idea of standard measurements:

• 6-8 inches - slim, low-profile mattresses
• 10-12 inches - average thickness for most mattresses
• 14-16 inches - thick, plush mattresses like pillowtops
• 18+ inches - extra tall air beds or specialty mattresses

Once you've taken an accurate measurement, you're ready for step 2!

Step 2: Choose Your Nightstand Height

Now that you know your mattress height, you can use it to select the ideal nightstand height to match.

As a general guideline, your nightstand height should be equal to or up to 2-3 inches taller than the top of your mattress. This allows easy access to items on the nightstand surface from a lying down position.

Matching vs Exceeding Mattress Height

Matching the mattress height exactly provides maximum comfort and accessibility. But allowing a little extra height accommodates personal preferences.

For example, exceeding mattress height by 1-3 inches gives you more surface area for lamps, books, and other bedside items. However, lower nightstands can provide easier access to built-in charging ports, outlets or controls.

Ultimately the choice comes down to your needs and priorities. As long as you stay close to your mattress height, you'll enjoy convenience either way.

The Drawbacks of Too Short or Too Tall

Of course, straying too far from your mattress height in either direction has disadvantages.

Nightstands that are much shorter than the mattress may require awkward reaching or bending to access items. Reaching down repeatedly can become uncomfortable.

Conversely, nightstands that exceed mattress height by more than 3 inches start to require sitting up or excessive reaching to utilize the surface. This defeats the purpose of easy access from a relaxed position.

To keep things comfortable, use your mattress height as the guide and don't deviate more than a few inches in either direction.

Step 3: Adjustable Nightstands

If you want maximum flexibility, consider an adjustable height nightstand. These allow you to tweak the height as needed for ergonomics and comfort.

How Adjustable Legs Work

Adjustable nightstands include legs that telescope internally to raise or lower the height within a defined range.

For example, a model may adjust from 24 to 30 inches high in 1-inch increments. Simply extend the internal portion of each leg out to increase height or retract the inner portion to make it lower.

This allows you to tweak the height until it's just right. Adjustable legs also accommodate changes down the road, like getting a different mattress.

Advantages of Adjustability

The flexibility of an adjustable nightstand offers advantages including:

• Customize height for your body type and proportions.
• Accommodate mattress changes by easily adjusting up or down.
• Modify if your needs or preferences change over time.
• Allow partners to each have their personalized nightstand height.

For those who value flexibility and customization, adjustable legs give you control over your ideal height.

Extra Nightstand Height Considerations

Beyond simply matching your mattress height, there are a few other factors to consider when choosing nightstand height:

Style and Decor

Make sure to select a nightstand height that aligns with your bedroom's decor and design theme. Contemporary bedrooms often feature lower, streamlined nightstands, while traditional bedrooms tend to have taller, substantial nightstands.

Also ensure the nightstand's materials and colors complement your existing furniture and color scheme for a cohesive look.

Intended Use and Needed Features

Consider what items you'll use the nightstand for - this may influence the ideal height.

For example, if you plan to use it mainly for books and reading lamps, a slightly taller height provides more real estate. If you'll largely use it for charging devices, lower may be better for access.

Also factor in needed features like drawers for storage versus open shelving. This can impact which height works best based on your needs.

Drawer Storage vs Shelf Space

Evaluate whether drawer storage or open shelving better suits your needs when selecting nightstand height. Drawers keep items out of sight whereas shelves provide open access.

If you need enclosed storage, look for nightstands with sufficient drawer depth at your ideal height. For displaying items, make sure shorter open shelves won't limit what you can place.

Custom Building Your Nightstand

If you want your nightstand at a very specific height, consider ordering a custom-built model to your exact specifications. Many furniture makers can accommodate custom heights, widths, and features.

Provide them with your required mattress clearance height and describe any specialized storage or surface needs. This allows complete personalization.

Nightstand Ideas for Different Mattress Heights

Here are some nightstand options at heights suited for common mattress thicknesses:

For 8-Inch Mattresses

• Winsome Lynn Night Stand - 24 inches high
• Nathan James Astrina Nightstand - 24 inches high
• Modway Clove Nightstand - 25 inches high

For 10-Inch Mattresses

• Zinus Lorraine Nightstand - 26 inches high
• HomeStyles Bambi Night Stand - 27 inches high
• Prepac Altus Night Stand - 26 inches high

For 12-Inch Mattresses

• Ameriwood Home Lumina Nightstand - 28 inches high
• BOSSIN Industrial Nightstand - 28 inches high
• Nathan James Nixon Nightstand - 29 inches high

This gives you an idea of heights that pair well with different mattress sizes. Always double check dimensions to find your perfect match.

Determining the ideal nightstand height is easy when you follow these simple steps:

1. Measure from floor to top of mattress to get its height.
2. Choose a nightstand height equal to or slightly above mattress height.
3. Consider adjustable nightstands to customize and tweak as needed.

With some quick measurements and height considerations, you can choose nightstands allowing convenient access from bed.

The right nightstand height contributes to an overall comfortable and ergonomic sleep environment. By correctly matching it to your mattress and preferences, you'll enjoy optimized comfort and accessibility.