6 Alternatives to the Classic Nightstand in the Bedroom

April 6, 2022, 3:53 pm | Read time: 4 minutes

A nightstand is essentially an extra piece of furniture that isn’t strictly necessary. However, it’s hard to do without one. Perhaps an alternative to the traditional nightstand could bring the desired variety to the bedroom.

Small furniture like nightstands often come in combination with the bed. However, if the uniform look doesn’t appeal to you, you can choose one of these alternatives instead of the traditional nightstand. After all, small furniture can be quickly swapped out, leading to a noticeable change in the room.

Alternatives to the Nightstand in the Bedroom

Bedrooms no longer need to be symmetrically furnished. Especially when it comes to your own side of the bed, you can design it however you like. In the case of a double or marital bed, the nightstand model of one partner can now differ from that of the other. Ideally, both have the same taste, so the overall look harmonizes again. In a single bedroom, this question doesn’t even arise, and you can choose freely.

1. Old Chair

Bright bedroom under the roof with an old chair as a nightstand — Other furniture finds, like repurposing an old chair, can be the ideal alternative to a nightstand

Especially during a Sunday trip to the flea market, you often discover old chairs or stools. The dining table is already complete with all seating furniture. So why not use the vintage object of desire in the bedroom as an alternative to the nightstand? Old furniture brings a lot of nostalgic flair into the bedroom. It’s not a problem if you find two different models. Their not-so-fresh charm provides the necessary visual symbiosis in the room.

2. Wall Ladder for the Minimalist Look

If the bedroom is more minimalist and the need for storage space next to the bed is rather low, you might not need an alternative to the nightstand at all, or you might want one that is minimalist itself. In such a case, it’s a good idea to integrate a practical wall ladder in the bedroom. You can drape your robe on it, hang a small pendant light, and place an open book over one of the rungs.

Minimalist bedroom with wall ladder — If you like it minimalist at home, you’ll appreciate and use the wall ladder as an alternative to the nightstand

If you need a bit more storage space, you can alternatively opt for a small kitchen step stool. On the various steps, you can optimally place an alarm clock, glasses, smartphone, and more, according to priority at the respective height.

Also interesting: 6 Tips for an Original Bedroom

3. Side Table from the Living Room

Woman lying on her bed — A side table as a nightstand: What suits the living room can undoubtedly fit in the bedroom too

Side tables have become particularly popular furniture in the living room. Accordingly, the market offers a vast array of tasteful models. If you can’t decide, the solution is to use one of your favorite side tables as an alternative to the nightstand. In most cases, this gives the bedroom a sophisticated twist. And how practical that such a side table is usually attractive from all sides and has no unsightly back. So place it wherever you want!

4. Floating Shelf

Young woman lying in bed with her laptop — Floating shelves are a space-saving alternative to the classic nightstand, especially in small rooms

Most bedrooms are rather small in size or are so filled with large furniture that there’s hardly any room for other furnishings. In both cases, it’s worth considering the following alternative: How about a floating shelf as a nightstand? This way, you not only have the necessary storage space but also take up minimal room space. And by the way, it’s much easier to vacuum without obstructive furniture legs.

5. Tray Table

Family having breakfast in bed — A tray table as a nightstand is extremely practical, especially when it comes to breakfast in bed

This alternative to the nightstand is quite practical: a table with a removable tray. Whoever wakes up first grabs it and brings breakfast in bed for everyone else. And in the evening, all belongings are conveniently placed for the next day.

6. Low Coffee Tables

Bedroom with futon bed and low coffee tables as nightstands — Why not turn decorating rules on their head and simply repurpose the coffee table from the living room as a nightstand in the bedroom?

Sometimes the best idea is to break with conventional decorating maxims and opt for a more unconventional solution. Low coffee tables typically belong in the living room but can give a bedroom a whole new dimension. This solution is particularly optimal for rooms with low ceilings and wide floor space. Combined with a futon bed, you end up with a cohesive look.

This article is a machine translation of the original German version of MYHOMEBOOK and has been reviewed for accuracy and quality by a native speaker. For feedback, please contact us at info@myhomebook.de.