TIPS & IDEAS

A dresser is the workhorse of a well-organized bedroom — it keeps clothing tidy, doubles as a surface for a mirror or lamp, and anchors the room's style. With so many sizes, drawer configurations, and finishes to choose from, the right dresser comes down to how much you need to store, your space, and the look you're after. This guide covers dresser types, how to size one, the materials worth paying for, and a safety step too many people skip. Browse our full range of dressers & chests as you read.

Dresser vs. Chest of Drawers — What's the Difference?

The terms are often used interchangeably, but there's a simple distinction:

• Dresser: wider and lower, usually with two columns of drawers. Great when you have horizontal wall space and want a surface on top.
• Chest of drawers: taller and narrower with a single column. Ideal for small rooms or to add storage without taking much floor space.

The Main Types

Standard & Double Dressers

The most versatile choice, with six to nine drawers for a couple or a primary bedroom — like our double dresser with 6 or 9 drawers.

Tall Chests

A tall chest stacks more storage into a small footprint — perfect for compact bedrooms, nurseries, or as a partner piece beside a wider dresser.

Minimalist & Japandi Dressers

Clean lines, warm woods, and recessed or integrated handles define the minimalist and Japandi looks that dominate modern bedrooms. A piece like our ash wood chest with three drawers brings that calm, uncluttered feel.

Accent & Statement Chests

Bold color, stone tops, or metallic detailing turn a chest into a focal point that can work in a bedroom, entryway, or living room. Our sintered stone chest pairs durable good looks with everyday function.

Sizing & Drawer Count

• Measure the wall and leave room for the drawers to fully extend (about 24 inches of clearance in front).
• Match storage to need: a single person may do well with a 5–6 drawer chest; couples usually want a 6–9 drawer double dresser.
• Mind the height: if the top will hold a mirror, keep the dresser low enough to see into it comfortably.
• Pair with a nightstand in a matching finish to tie the bedroom together.

Materials & Build Quality

• Solid & engineered wood: warm and sturdy; light woods like ash and oak suit minimalist and Japandi rooms.
• Sintered stone or glass tops: scratch- and stain-resistant surfaces that handle daily use.
• Drawer glides: look for smooth, full-extension metal glides — the clearest sign of a quality dresser.
• Joinery: dovetailed or reinforced drawer boxes last far longer than stapled ones.

Don't Skip This: Anti-Tip Safety

Tall and loaded dressers can tip, which is a serious hazard in homes with children. Always anchor a dresser to the wall with the included anti-tip kit, and store heavier items in the lower drawers to keep the center of gravity low.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between a dresser and a chest of drawers?

A dresser is wider and lower, typically with two columns of drawers and a usable top surface. A chest of drawers is taller and narrower with a single column, making it better for small spaces.

How many drawers do I need?

One person is usually well served by a 5–6 drawer chest; couples or primary bedrooms benefit from a 6–9 drawer double dresser. Buy a little more storage than you think you need.

What is a minimalist or Japandi dresser?

Both feature clean lines, warm natural woods, and discreet or recessed handles for an uncluttered look. Japandi blends Japanese simplicity with Scandinavian warmth — calm, functional, and timeless.

How do I keep a dresser from tipping?

Anchor it to the wall studs with an anti-tip strap or bracket (often included), and load the heaviest items in the bottom drawers. This is essential in homes with young children.

Find Your Dresser

Whether you want a minimalist chest for a small room or a roomy double dresser for a shared bedroom, the right piece keeps you organized for years. Explore our full collection of dressers & chests to find yours.