Home Improvement

What Are the Best Types of Chest of Drawers for Small Bedrooms?

Published

2 days ago

September 23, 2025

Admin

A small bedroom can be cozy and intimate, but it often comes with a challenge: limited storage space.

When every square inch counts, choosing the right furniture becomes essential.

That’s where the chest of drawers shines.

Not only does it help keep things organised, but the right design can also elevate your room’s aesthetic without overwhelming it.

In this post, we’ll explore the best types of chest of drawers for small bedrooms, covering space-saving styles, functionality, materials, design ideas, and placement tips.

Whether you’re furnishing a compact flat or a modest guest room, this guide will help you choose the perfect piece that balances form and function.

Table of Contents

Why a Chest of Drawers Is a Must-Have in Small Bedrooms

When storage space is tight, it’s tempting to stuff everything into your wardrobe or under the bed. But that usually leads to clutter.

A chest of drawers serves as a designated spot for folded clothes, accessories, linens, or even work-from-home essentials.

Here’s why it’s ideal for small bedrooms:

Compact footprint: Takes up less horizontal space than wardrobes.
Vertical storage: Uses vertical space efficiently with multiple drawers stacked.
Versatility: Can double as a nightstand, vanity, or media unit.
Style addition: Adds a visual break to your room’s layout.

Chest of drawers come in various styles and sizes, making them adaptable to any small space setup.

Key Factors to Consider Before Buying a Chest of Drawers

To make a smart, long-term purchase, consider the following:

1. Room Size and Layout

Measure your available space carefully.

Account for drawer clearance and walking space around the unit.

Also, consider where doors, windows, or wall sockets might limit placement.

2. Storage Needs

Ask yourself:

What items will go in the drawers?
Do you need shallow drawers for small items or deep drawers for bulky clothing?
Will it replace a nightstand?

3. Design Compatibility

Choose a style that matches your current bedroom furniture—whether modern, rustic, Scandinavian, or traditional.

4. Material and Build Quality

Opt for sturdy materials like solid wood, MDF, or engineered wood.

A painted chest of drawers adds elegance and can resist wear and tear with proper finishes.

Best Chest of Drawer Types for Small Bedrooms

Let’s now explore chest of drawer designs that maximize function in limited spaces:

1. Tallboy Chests (Vertical Drawers)

A tallboy is narrow and tall, typically featuring 5–7 drawers stacked vertically.

This style makes the most of vertical real estate while maintaining a small footprint.

Best for: Storing folded clothes, accessories, or socks in small bedrooms.

Design tip: Choose a tallboy with narrow legs to create an illusion of more floor space.

2. Narrow Chests

If you’re working with a sliver of space between the bed and wall or door, a narrow chest can be the perfect solution.

Best for: Slim spaces or corners, especially in shared rooms.

Pro tip: Pair two narrow chests on either side of the bed for symmetry and extra storage.

3. Multi-Functional Chests

Some chest of drawers double as vanities or desks, especially in studio flats.

Look for ones with pull-out trays or built-in mirrors.

Best for: Small homes or rooms needing multipurpose furniture.

Benefit: Saves the need for separate pieces of furniture.

4. Under-Window Chests

Low-height chests are designed to fit snugly under a window without blocking natural light.

They often come with wide drawers for added storage.

Best for: Window-facing walls that usually remain unused.

Bonus: Can act as a window seat with a cushion on top!

5. Corner Chest of Drawers

A lesser-known but incredibly useful type, corner chests fit neatly into tight corners, utilizing space that often goes wasted.

Best for: Odd-shaped or awkward bedroom layouts.

Style tip: Choose mirrored finishes or light colours to reflect light and make the room feel larger.

6. Floating Drawer Units

Wall-mounted or floating chests can be installed without using floor space. They’re minimalist, sleek, and great for a modern aesthetic.

Best for: Ultra-small bedrooms or minimalist interiors.

Note: Installation may require wall support, so plan accordingly.

7. Modular Drawer Units

These can be stacked or rearranged as needed, making them great for evolving spaces like kids’ rooms or rental properties.

Best for: Flexibility and budget-conscious designs.

Use case: Stack vertically to save space or spread horizontally for a low-profile design.

Best Materials for Small Bedroom Chests

The material not only determines durability but also affects the visual weight of the furniture.

1. Wood

Solid wood gives a rich look and is long-lasting. However, for small rooms, lighter wood tones help keep the space airy.

2. Painted Finishes

These are trendy and ideal for small bedrooms. They offer:

Stain resistance
Aesthetic appeal
Colour-matching flexibility

A good painted chest of drawers adds elegance without feeling bulky.

3. Mirrored or Glossy Surfaces

These surfaces reflect light and create a spacious feel, ideal for dim or small rooms.

Smart Styling Ideas for Chest of Drawers in Small Bedrooms

Pair your storage with smart style:

1. Use as a Vanity

Add a mirror and a stool, and you’ve got a stylish vanity with drawers.

2. Top It with Storage Baskets

Use decorative baskets to keep daily-use items accessible and organised.

3. Add Wall Hooks Above

Install hooks above the chest for hanging scarves, hats, or jewelry—maximizing vertical storage.

4. Incorporate Lighting

Table lamps or LED strips can enhance usability at night and create a warm ambiance.

Tips to Maximize Space in Small Bedrooms

Besides selecting the right chest of drawers, consider these space-saving tricks:

Use vertical wall shelves above the drawer unit.
Store out-of-season clothes in vacuum bags within the bottom drawers.
Opt for lighter colours to open up the space visually.
Declutter often—less stuff means fewer storage needs.

Final Thoughts

In small bedrooms, choosing the right chest of drawers is about striking a balance between functionality, style, and space efficiency.

Whether you go with a tallboy, narrow unit, modular set, or a beautiful painted chest of drawers, the right piece can elevate your room’s utility and charm without taking up precious floor space.

Ready to transform your bedroom? Explore timeless and space-savvy chest of drawers and give your room the smart storage solution it deserves.