The Importance Of Dressers In Bedrooms: Are They Necessary?

Whether or not all bedrooms have dressers is a matter of personal preference and available space. Dressers are a classic piece of furniture used to store clothing and other household items. They are typically placed in bedrooms to store clothes, but with many closets now featuring built-in drawers, the need for dressers is fading. While dressers provide added storage and surface space for decorations, they can sometimes be seen as unnecessary clutter, especially in smaller bedrooms.

Benefits of having a dresser in the bedroom

There are several benefits to having a dresser in the bedroom. Firstly, dressers provide additional storage space, not just for clothes but also for children's or pet toys, office supplies, electronics, and other household items. This can help to keep your bedroom organised and clutter-free, promoting a sense of peace and comfort.

Secondly, a dresser can offer extra surface area to display important photos, decorative pieces, plants, or other personal items such as jewellery, perfume, and accessories. This can help to make your bedroom feel more personalised and cosy. Additionally, the flat surface of a dresser can be a great place to get ready in the morning, especially if it has a mirror attached, making it easier to get dressed and put on makeup or accessories.

Having a dresser in your bedroom can also help to fill up empty space and bring the whole room together aesthetically. Whether it's a sleek, modern design or a traditional wooden piece, a dresser can make a statement and serve as a focal point. For those who want to mount a TV in their bedroom, a dresser can also function as a TV stand, with the added benefit of being able to hide cables and TV boxes in the drawers.

Finally, dressers are versatile and come in various styles, materials, and sizes to suit different needs and preferences. From standard horizontal or vertical chests to built-in dressers or dressers with a hutch, you can choose a design that maximises floor space or vertical space, depending on your room's layout. Ultimately, a dresser can be a functional and stylish addition to any bedroom.

History of the dresser

The dresser, also known as a 'dressoir' in medieval times, has a rich history that dates back to the grand halls of the medieval period. It was a high-status object, often adorned with ornate carvings and paintings or draped in stunning textiles, and used to display silverware, fine plates, and other symbols of wealth. In France, the number of shelves a dresser had indicated the owner's social ranking.

By the 17th century, the dresser transitioned into a familiar feature in kitchens, dining rooms, and parlours, with the addition of a tall backboard fitted with shallow shelves for displaying fine dinnerware and drawers for storing table linens and silverware. This type of dresser became a common fixture in middle-class homes up until the 19th century. During this time, the styles evolved to suit the tastes of the upper class, with imported mahogany dressers largely replacing more humble wood variants.

In the United States, the term "dresser" evolved to denote either a cupboard for holding dishes and utensils or a chest of drawers topped by a mirror for use in the bedroom. The longboy style inspired the current use of the dresser, essentially a version of the European lowboy or "dressing table", where one can store their cosmetics, folded clothing, and other personal items. Mirrors were eventually incorporated into the design, giving rise to the term "vanity".

Different types of dressers

There are many different types of dressers, each with unique features and purposes. Here are some of the most common types:

Standard Horizontal Dresser

The standard horizontal dresser, also known as the chest, is one of the oldest pieces of furniture. It typically contains two columns of drawers to maximise floor space and can provide a stylish focal point for a room.

Standard Vertical Chest

The vertical chest, also called a tallboy, has a double stack of compartments. Sometimes, the upper half is replaced by a cupboard.

Combo Dresser

The combo dresser combines a standard squat dresser with a tall cabinet, maximising storage options. They work well in shared spaces or primary bedrooms.

Built-in Dresser

Built-in dressers are permanent fixtures that are perfect for shared spaces. They consist of cabinets, compartments, or hanging sections, allowing for customisation to maximise functionality and space.

Chifferobe Dresser

The chifferobe has several compartments with greater depth, perfect for storing folded clothes. It is an excellent choice for shirts, shorts, jackets, socks, and underwear.

Nursery or Changing Table Dresser

The nursery or changing table dresser includes a changing pad and extra storage for baby clothes and other items. Modern versions may include tiered baskets or diaper caddies.

Lingerie Chest

The lingerie chest traditionally has seven drawers for each day of the week. It is tall and long, with deep and narrow compartments.

Gentleman's Chest

The gentleman's chest features a drawer column paired with a vertically oriented door, ideal for suits, pants, and other hanging clothing items.

Bachelor's Chest

The bachelor's chest is a small, narrow chest with three to four drawers. It is designed for a single person with limited clothing storage needs. It is considered a chest due to its narrow shape and limited storage space.

Media Chest

The media chest is similar to a dresser but with an open top shelf for a cable box, making it suitable for entertainment purposes in bedrooms and living rooms.

Dresser with a Hutch

A hutch design features cabinets or shelves placed on top of a counter or drawer, providing additional storage space. It can be oriented vertically or horizontally.

Armoire Dresser

The armoire is a large wardrobe with a hanging rod and inner hooks, providing ample vertical space for suit jackets and dresses. While most armoire dressers are antique and ornate, minimalist styles are also available.

Cloth Drawer Dresser

Cloth dressers have metal frames and cloth storage drawers, making them lightweight and safe for children's rooms as they are less likely to topple over.

Rolling Chest Dresser

The rolling chest features compartments and wheels, making it convenient for moving and storing clothes in different rooms. It is also ideal for storing seasonal items.

Bombe Dresser

Bombe dressers have a distinct curve at the bottom, often with ornate details. Despite their unconventional shape, they can serve multiple purposes, such as an entry table or bar station.

Dresser alternatives

While dressers are a standard component of most bedroom sets, they are not necessary. Here are some alternatives to consider:

Closet Organizer

A closet organizer is a great option for those who have a small closet or limited space. You can buy readymade closet organizer systems or get creative and convert a closet into a DIY dresser and wardrobe combination. This can include adding shelves and other components to maximize storage.

Storage Bed

Create additional storage space by investing in a bed with built-in storage drawers or bins underneath. This is a practical solution for small rooms as it provides easy access to your belongings without taking up extra floor space.

Over-Bed Storage

If you're looking to maximize your bedroom wall space, consider installing a shelf unit above your bed. This can be a stylish and functional alternative to a traditional dresser, providing easy access to frequently used items.

Cube Clothes Organizer

The Ikea Kallax cube organizer is a versatile and affordable option for clothing storage. It features multiple cubes that can accommodate storage baskets or folded clothes. The unit is available in different sizes to fit your space and can be customized with various colors and accessories.

Modular Wire Shelving

For a simple and inexpensive solution, consider modular wire shelving with labeled cloth bins. This setup costs around $100 USD and provides a functional and aesthetically pleasing way to store your clothing and other items.

Second-Hand Furniture

If you're on a budget, consider purchasing second-hand furniture from places like Facebook Marketplace, Goodwill, or Habitat for Humanity. You can often find solid wood dressers in good condition for a fraction of the price of new ones. Just be patient and keep an eye out for the right piece to fit your space and style.

How to choose the right dresser

A dresser is a practical and attractive piece of furniture that can complement your bedroom. Here are some tips on how to choose the right one:

Understand the Different Types of Dressers

Before buying a dresser, it's important to know the key distinctions between the different types available. Dressers come in various designs, materials, and styles, each serving a specific purpose and offering unique features.

The most common types include the standard horizontal dresser, standard vertical chest, combo dresser, built-in dresser, chifferobe dresser, nursery/changing table dresser, lingerie chest, gentleman's chest, cloth drawer dresser, armoire dresser, bachelor's chest, rolling chest dresser, and dresser with a hutch.

Measure Your Space and Assess Your Storage Needs

Consider the amount of space you have in your bedroom and the storage capacity you require. Measure the area where you plan to place the dresser, ensuring that it fits well and doesn't obstruct the flow of the room. Assess whether you need more small or large drawers, or a combination of both, depending on the items you plan to store.

Choose the Right Size

Dressers come in various sizes, from small to large. Small dressers typically have three to six drawers and are perfect for smaller spaces, while large dressers can have up to ten drawers and are ideal for filling up a large room. Ensure you have enough clearance between the dresser and other furniture, and that the height doesn't block windows or views.

Consider the Design and Style

Dressers come in various colours, styles, and materials. Choose a design that complements your room's theme and colour scheme. Consider the hardware, such as modern metal handles or hand-carved wooden knobs. Look for unique details like distressed wood, decorative moldings, or tapered legs to add a personal touch and enhance the overall look and feel of the dresser.

Quality Indicators

When assessing dressers, look for indicators of quality. More expensive dressers often offer more drawers than similarly-sized, cheaper options. Graduated drawers, with smaller top drawers and larger bottom ones, are a sign of good product design. Additionally, look for dovetail joints, sanded and finished-edge drawer sides, reinforced legs, and dust panels as indicators of higher quality.

By following these tips and considering your space, storage needs, and design preferences, you can choose the right dresser to enhance your bedroom's functionality and aesthetic.

Frequently asked questions