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Bedroom Furniture Names: Glossary to Clear Up the Jargon

You don’t have to be an interior designer to know the names of bedroom furniture pieces. Get informed and clear the air with this makes-life-easier guide to bedroom furniture terms.
A bedroom set is a collection of bedroom furniture that’s all designed to match. This means that the type of wood and its finish, along with the hardware and leg style, all follow the same design template. It’s the easiest way to make sure several pieces of furniture work together in the same space.

In general, a standard bedroom set consists of three to four pieces: the bed, a nightstand and a dresser. The fourth piece may be an additional nightstand or a mirror for the dresser. Standard sets are sold together and usually offer savings over buying pieces separately.
In addition to standard bedroom sets, some may be expanded to add an additional dresser, a bench and more. It’s sometimes possible to customize a set, meaning that you can pick and choose matching pieces. This allows you to get what you need. For example, if a tall, narrow dresser fits in your space better than a wide one, you could swap out one for the other.

Bedroom Furniture Set Glossary

Defining the bedroom furniture items.

Bed Frame

The biggest part of the set, where you’ll sleep. Types of beds include platform beds, which allow you to place a mattress directly on the frame. Trundle beds are another type, which contain a second platform for a second mattress underneath. Finally, there’s sleigh beds, which have a focal point headboard and footboard resembling an old-fashioned sleigh. Bed sizes range from California King size.

Accent Chair

Accompanies the bed and placed in a corner for when you want to sit and relax. In a minimalist room, a chair or ottoman is all you need to complete a standard set.

Nightstand

A small storage functionality unit placed next to the bed, also called a bedside table. Usually adorned with bedroom decor.

Armoire

A tall storage unit that usually contains drawers, a hanging rod for clothes and shelves.

Chest of Drawers

Don't let this one confuse you. A chest of drawers is a fancy name for a dresser!

Dresser

A storage unit composed, usually, of two columns of drawers. Three or four drawers per column is the usual. The bedroom equivalent of the living room sideboard or credenza. In a baby’s bedroom, the dresser can contain a dressing table surface for changing.

Bookcase

A storage unit of shelves, made to store books and decor. While this is usually seen in office home furnishings, it’s not unheard of to incorporate a home office bookcase into a bedroom set.

Bedroom Set Styles

The final decision to make when it comes to buying a bedroom set is the style. Do you generally prefer modern furniture with clean lines or country flair? Bedroom sets are available in contemporary, modern and traditional designs, so shop around to get a look you love before you invest in several pieces at once.

Terms for Bedroom Furniture Pieces

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Editorial Disclaimer: Articles featuring tips and advice are intended for educational purposes and only as general recommendations. Always practice personal discretion when using and caring for furniture, decor and related items.