Nightstand

For other uses, seeNightstand (disambiguation).

A typical modern nightstand with a drawer and three shelves

Anightstand,alternativelynight table,bedside table,daystandorbedside cabinet,is a smalltableorcabinetdesigned to stand beside abedor elsewhere in abedroom.Modern nightstands are usually small bedside tables, often with one or sometimes moredrawersand/or shelves and less commonly with a small door. They are often used to support items that might be useful during the night, such as a table lamp, reading matter, cell phone, eyeglasses, tissues, a drink, or medication.

Before indoorflush toiletsbecame commonplace, the main function of a nightstand was to contain achamber pot.As a result, early nightstands were often small cabinets, sometimes fitted with a drawer, and usually containing an enclosed storage space below covered by one or more doors. Another term sometimes given to such cabinets wascommode.

French, Italian and Spanish antique nightstands usually have one drawer and an enclosed storage space with one door. They can be embellished with gold leaf finish, bronze or parquetry inlaid.

Wood and pressboard are the most common materials used for nightstands.

External links

• Media related toNightstandsat Wikimedia Commons