Chests of Drawers vs. Dressers
Clothing Storage Ideas: Choosing Between a Dresser or Chest of Drawers
When it comes to keeping your bedroom neat and organized, staples like dressers and chests of drawers are an essential piece of the puzzle. Although these furnishings serve a similar purpose, there are slight differences in their sizes and designs. Depending on your needs and bedroom dimensions, one of these pieces could be a better option for you than the other.
Overview
If you’re trying to decide between a chest vs. a dresser, check out this post for suggestions and tips on:
- Understanding the differences between dressers and chests of drawers
- Recognizing the various types of dressers and chests
- How to choose between a chest or a dresser
- Selecting dressers and chests for kids
- Different chest and dresser designs to suit your stylish tastes
What is a Dresser?
Dressers are low-profile cabinet-style storage units, usually with two rows of side-by-side drawers. While the standard dresser dimensions vary across different designs, dressers typically have short, wide frames and six drawers. Thesepieces also tend to have spacious surfaces for makeup, accessories, attached mirrors and other knick-knacks.
What is a Chest of Drawers?
A chest of drawers provides storage as well. However, these units are usually taller and narrower than dressers. Due to their sleek, vertical design, these pieces are a popular choice for small areas like college dorms and studio apartments. While their tops are often too small for mirror attachments, chests typically have four to six drawers that are roomier than most dresser drawers.
Types of Dressers
Dressers come in a wide range of shapes, sizes and designs. Comparing the different dresser types and weighing the pros and cons of each option can help you choose one that fits your layout and accommodates your wardrobe. Consider the following dresser types to discover the best option for your bedroom:
- Horizontal Dressers: One of the most common dresser types, the horizontal dresser has a wide top surface and six roomy drawers. If you need more room for your clothes, you can choose a seven-, eight-, or nine-drawer dresser in this style.
- Double Dresser: A double dresser is an extra-wide option with two columns of lengthy drawers. Compared to the standard horizontal dresser, these pieces provide even more storage and display space. However, they also take up more floor space than a typical horizontal dresser.
- Combo Dressers: Combo dressers consist of a standard dresser and additional storage cabinets, making them an excellent option for guest bedroom decor.
Types of Chests of Drawers
Chests also come in a wide range of designs. Depending onyour needs, one of these versatile, flexible furnishings could be an excellent choice for your bedroom, walk-in closet or dressing room. Some of the most popular chests of drawers styles include:
- Vertical Chests: Vertical chests, otherwise known as highboy dressers, are the standard option for those who need storage for their limited layouts.
- Bachelor’s Chests: Bachelor’s chests take the low-profile design of a traditional vertical chest and downsize it, meaning they often have fewer drawers than the standard model. They can sometimes serve as a unique nightstand or short accent cabinet as well.
- Lingerie Chests: Lingerie chests are generally taller and thinner than standard chests of drawers. As the name suggests, these pieces store undergarments and clothing with delicate fabrics. These versatile pieces can also help you organize jewelry, cosmetics and seasonal apparel.
- Gentleman’s Chests: A gentleman’s chest combines the usual wide chest of drawers with a taller cabinet section. Similar to an armoire, these pieces can hold coats, jackets, suits and dresses for those who run out of closet space and need more room to hang up their outfits.
Choosing What’s Best for Your Bedroom
With so many bedroom storage styles available, you may be wondering, “Is a chest or a dresser better?” The answer to this question differs for everyone, but it mostly depends on which option fits your layout and meets your storage needs. Again, chests of drawers work best for small rooms. Taller models can maximize vertical space, while shorter chests can double as nightstands.
If you’re decorating a larger bedroom, a dresser may be a better fit for your space. Units with five drawers or more are perfect for storing an extensive wardrobe and filling in larger layouts. You can also use these wide pieces as a bedroom TV console or to hold your skincare and hair care products, creating one convenient spot for all your morning routine essentials.
A seven– or eight-piece bedroom set with a dresser and chest of drawers is ideal for spacious, shared bedrooms. Using both these items can provide the perfect storage solution in bedrooms for couples. Pair a dresser and chest of drawers together so you and your partner can have plenty of room and everything else you need to get ready each morning.
Kids’ Dressers & Chests of Drawers
Your little ones need all the help they can get when it comes to keeping their bedrooms tidy. A kids’ dresser or chest of drawers can make it easier to keep their rooms organized. To suit your kids’ bedroom color scheme, choose units in the following finishes:
- White Chests and Dressers
- Cherry Dressers
- Blue and Navy Chests
- Gray Dressers
- Black Dressers
- Pink or Purple Chests
- Wood Dressers
- Multi-Colored Chests
Decorating with a Dresser or Chest of Drawers
Along with serving as functional furniture, chests of drawers and dressers can be a gorgeous addition to your interior design. Displaying art, family heirlooms, framed photos and collectibles on their surfaces is a simple way to give your bedroom a decorative boost. Also, many dressers and chests have beautiful finishes and accents that can complement any decor style.
Whatever chic and cozy look you want to create in your bedroom, you can find a beautiful dresser to suit your design. Select a charming rustic, farmhouse, casual or cottage-style dresser to promote a simple, cozy look. Prefer something a little more elegant? Try a sleek contemporary or ornate traditional dresser for a touch of sophisticated flair.
Design styles for chests of drawers range from classic to contemporary, giving you plenty of flexibility to work them into your bedroom design. Browse traditional chests with intricately carved detailing to create a posh, stately vibe. Choose weathered-wood rustic models for a laidback look or pick a simple yet stunning transitional chest for the best of both worlds.
Learning the difference between a dresser and a chest of drawers makes it easier to understand which of these storage options would be a better fit for your space, storage needs and sense of style. Compare the benefits of a chest of drawers vs. a dresser to determine which one is the best choice for your design.
