Nightstand Distance: How Far Should Your Bedside Table Sit?
Ever stood up at night and bumped your arm on a nightstand? That tiny accident is a sign your bedside table is too close or too far. Getting the right distance makes reaching for a lamp, a book, or your phone easy and keeps the space looking tidy.
First, think about the space you have. A standard double bed is about 55 inches wide, a queen around 60 inches and a king 76 inches. Measure the width of your mattress and add a little breathing room on each side – about 2‑3 inches. That extra space lets you slide in and out without knocking into the nightstand.
Ideal Clearance and Height
The most common rule is to keep the nightstand 2‑4 inches away from the mattress edge. If you have a narrow bed, aim for the lower end of that range; a wider bed can handle a few extra inches. This gap gives you room to move your arms freely and still keeps the table within arm’s reach.
Height matters just as much as distance. The top of the nightstand should line up with the top of your mattress or be just a bit lower – roughly 1‑2 inches below. This makes it easy to grab a glass of water or your phone without stretching. If you have a low‑profile mattress, you might need a taller nightstand or a small riser.
Depth is another factor. Nightstands are usually 12‑18 inches deep. For a compact bedroom, pick a slimmer design (12‑14 inches) to keep the floor clear. If you need extra storage, a deeper nightstand works, but make sure it doesn’t push the table too far from the bed.
Practical Tips for Different Bed Sizes
For a twin or single bed, you can place the nightstand right next to the mattress – a 1‑inch gap works fine because you have less room to move around. On a queen or king, keep the 3‑inch gap on each side to stay balanced.
If you share a bed, you’ll need two nightstands. Measure the total width of the mattress, add the gaps on both sides, then split the remaining space between the two tables. This keeps the setup symmetrical and prevents one side from feeling cramped.
Don’t forget about the wall. If your nightstand sits against a wall, leave a ½‑inch space at the back. This tiny clearance stops the table from rubbing against the wall and makes cleaning easier.
Finally, test it out. Place the nightstand where you think it should go, then lie down and reach for the lamp, your phone, or a book. If anything feels awkward, adjust the distance a bit. Small changes can make a big difference in comfort.
By following these simple guidelines – 2‑4 inches from the mattress, matching the nightstand height to the mattress top, and respecting depth limits – you’ll create a bedroom that looks neat and feels functional. No more midnight bumps, just smooth, easy moves every night.
