Guide to Drawers and Drawer Measurements
Common Types of Drawer Glides
All drawers are designed to pull out and back in but not all feature the same types of glides. Here are two of the most popular and how they work in furniture.- Metal glides with levers: One of the most common drawer types are drawers with metal glides with levers, which guide the drawer in and out on metal guides – and which feature a stopping mechanism to prevent the drawer from pulling too far out.
- Wood glides: Although they are not as common as metal glides, wood glides can still be found in some newer furniture pieces and perform the same function (with just as much ease) as metal glides. Drawers with wood glides can be distinguished by what they lack – bolts, screws, metal hardware, etc. – and generally feature a simple carved-out line to guide the drawer open and closed.
Drawers in Dressers
Dresser drawers come in a variety of designs and sizes, so dimensions will vary. Here are some of the most common.
Small Dresser Drawers: Width - 12", Depth - 14", Height - 4"
Medium Dresser Drawers: Width - 28", Depth - 16", Height - 6"
Large Dresser Drawers: Width - 30”, Depth - 18”, Height - 8"
Best used for: Because they carry a wide range of sizes, dresser drawers are commonly used to store a wide range of items; popular uses include storing clothes, linens, jewelry and accessories.
Drawers in Nightstands
Nightstand drawers come in a variety of designs and sizes, so dimensions will vary. Here are some of the most common.
Average Nightstand Drawer Size: Width - 17”, Depth - 13”, Height - 3.5"
Best used for: Nightstands are often designed with drawers to make it easy to store and reach for items such as books, journals, reading glasses and medication while in bed.
Drawers in Storage Beds
Storage bed drawers come in a variety of designs and sizes, so dimensions will vary. Here are some of the most common.
Average Storage Bed Drawer Size: 35.5"W x 19.50"D x 8.75"H
Best used for: Out of nightstands, dressers, chests and more, storage beds tend to offer the most amount of drawer space – so use them for bulkier items like bedspreads, pillows, winter coats and shoes
Half Extension vs. Full Extension
All drawers are designed to pull in and out but not all extend out all the way. While you’ll still get the same amount of storage space from half extension drawers as you will from full extension, note that drawers with full extension will make it easier to reach farther into the back of the drawer space.
