Chest of Drawers

Chest of Drawers, Tallboys & Bedroom Drawer Storage

A chest of drawers provides practical storage for folded clothing, accessories and everyday belongings, helping keep bedrooms organised without relying entirely on wardrobe space. From compact three-drawer units to wide chests with multiple compartments, different designs offer options for bedrooms of various sizes. Choose from contemporary furniture with clean lines, traditional wooden styles and decorative finishes that complement existing interiors. For natural timber tones and wood-effect designs, explore our Wooden Chest of Drawers collection.

Choosing between a tall and wide chest of drawers depends on the available space and how much storage you need. Taller designs make use of vertical space, while wider chests provide a larger top surface and can accommodate several drawers arranged side by side. Compact chests are useful when floor space is limited, particularly in guest bedrooms and smaller rooms. Before choosing a unit, compare its width, height and depth rather than relying only on the number of drawers.

Tallboy chests of drawers are particularly useful in bedrooms where a narrower footprint is preferred. Their vertical construction allows several drawers to be arranged above one another, providing storage without occupying as much wall width as a larger horizontal chest. Tallboys can work alongside Wardrobes, providing separate compartments for folded clothing, socks, accessories and other items that do not require hanging space. Always check the overall height and any wall-fixing requirements before purchasing.

Wide chests of drawers provide an alternative for bedrooms with more available wall space. Six-drawer, seven-drawer and larger designs can offer separate compartments for different types of clothing and household essentials. Some wide chests arrange drawers in two columns, while others use a combination of smaller and larger compartments. Their broader top surfaces can also accommodate decorative accessories and everyday items, provided the manufacturer's stated weight limits are followed.

Compact three-drawer and four-drawer chests are suitable for rooms where a larger storage unit would feel excessive. These designs can provide convenient storage for clothing, personal belongings and smaller household items while leaving more space around the furniture. A compact drawer chest can also complement Bedside Tables, giving you additional storage elsewhere in the bedroom without overcrowding the sleeping area.

The colour of a chest of drawers can make a noticeable difference to the bedroom's overall appearance. White chests of drawers work well with lighter interiors, while black finishes create stronger contrast against neutral walls and flooring. Grey, cashmere and taupe designs provide additional options for understated contemporary bedrooms. Natural wood tones, including oak-effect and darker brown finishes, can introduce warmth and texture. Consider how the chosen colour will coordinate with the bed frame, flooring and surrounding furniture.

The design of the drawer fronts and handles can also influence the appearance of a chest. Some contemporary units have smooth fronts, simple handles and a minimalist shape, while others feature fluted detailing, decorative panels, contrasting legs or distinctive drawer pulls. Matching finishes can create a coordinated bedroom arrangement, particularly when the chest is positioned near a Dressing Table. Mixing complementary materials can also work well where a more individual interior style is preferred.

Chest of drawers designs are available in a variety of materials, including solid wood, engineered wood, MDF and metal. Some feature reclaimed timber, rattan detailing or wood-effect surfaces, while more decorative models incorporate mirrored panels, marble tops or bone inlay. These materials differ in appearance, weight and care requirements. A solid wood chest may offer visible grain patterns, while an engineered wood design can provide a more uniform finish. Check the individual product specifications to understand the exact materials used.

When choosing bedroom storage for children, consider how easily the drawers can be accessed and whether the unit is suitable for the intended room. Compact chests can provide separate compartments for clothing, toys and smaller belongings, although their construction and stability requirements should always be checked. For further storage options designed around children's rooms, explore our Kids Storage collection. Follow any supplied wall-fixing and safety instructions, particularly where children may have access to the furniture.

Drawer capacity is another important consideration. A chest with several smaller compartments can help organise accessories and lightweight clothing, while deeper drawers may be more suitable for bulkier folded garments. The total number of drawers does not always indicate how much storage space a unit provides. Internal drawer dimensions, depth, construction and stated weight limits can vary considerably between designs. Check these measurements when choosing furniture for heavier belongings or larger quantities of clothing.

A chest of drawers can be positioned opposite the bed, alongside a wardrobe or against an available bedroom wall, depending on the room layout. Leave enough space for the drawers to open fully and for people to move comfortably around the furniture. Larger Beds may require more careful planning, particularly when the bedroom also includes wardrobes, bedside furniture and a wide drawer chest. Measuring the available floor space before ordering can help avoid an overcrowded arrangement.

Different finishes require appropriate care to maintain their appearance. Wooden and wood-effect surfaces should be cleaned according to their specific material requirements, while metal handles and legs may need separate attention. Mirrored panels and marble tops should be treated with suitable cleaning products, avoiding abrasive materials that could damage the finish. For rattan or textured decorative details, gentle cleaning may be preferable to excessive moisture. Always follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance instructions.

Although chests of drawers are commonly used in bedrooms, certain designs can also work in hallways, living rooms and other areas where additional storage is needed. A compact chest can provide compartments for smaller household items, while a wider design may offer storage beneath a decorative display. If you prefer a unit that combines drawers with cupboard doors or internal shelving, our Sideboards collection provides an alternative. The choice depends on what you need to store and how you want to access it.

The top surface of a chest of drawers can serve a decorative purpose as well as providing storage. A small lamp, framed photograph or carefully chosen accessories can complement the furniture without making the surface feel cluttered. The available space and weight capacity should be considered when arranging heavier items. Taller furniture and decorative pieces should also be positioned where they do not obstruct access to drawers or nearby doors.

A mirror can be a useful addition above a wide chest of drawers, particularly where the furniture is being used as part of a dressing or getting-ready area. Choosing a mirror that suits the proportions of the chest can create a balanced arrangement, while its position should be considered in relation to windows and lighting. Explore our Wall Mirrors for different shapes and finishes. Ensure that any wall-mounted mirror is installed using fixings suitable for the wall construction.

Before purchasing a chest of drawers, measure the available width, depth and height, including any space needed for fully extended drawers. Check whether the unit arrives assembled or requires home assembly, and confirm the materials, included fittings and recommended weight capacities. Some chests must be secured to a wall to reduce the risk of tipping, so follow the manufacturer's safety instructions and use suitable fixings. Measuring doorways, hallways and staircases can also help ensure that larger furniture can be moved into the intended room.

FAQs

What is a chest of drawers used for?

A chest of drawers provides storage for folded clothing, underwear, accessories, nightwear and other household essentials. Separate drawers help organise belongings and keep frequently used items easy to access.

What is the difference between a tallboy and a wide chest of drawers?

A tallboy is a taller, generally narrower chest designed to make use of vertical space. A wide chest of drawers has a broader construction and usually provides a larger top surface. The best option depends on the available room dimensions and required storage capacity.

Are chests of drawers suitable for small bedrooms?

Yes. Compact and tall chests of drawers can be useful in smaller bedrooms, especially when there is limited wall or floor space. Check the complete external dimensions and allow sufficient clearance for drawers to open.

How many drawers should a bedroom chest have?

The ideal number depends on what you need to store. Three-drawer and four-drawer chests may be suitable for smaller storage requirements, while six-drawer and larger designs provide more compartments for organising clothing and accessories.

What materials are chests of drawers made from?

Chests of drawers can be made from solid wood, engineered wood, MDF, metal and combinations of materials. Some designs also feature rattan, mirrored panels, marble tops or decorative inlay. Materials vary between products, so check the specifications before purchasing.

Are wooden chests of drawers better than MDF designs?

Both can be suitable for bedroom storage. Solid wood provides natural grain patterns and a traditional material finish, while MDF and engineered wood are used in a wide variety of contemporary designs. Construction quality, dimensions, finish and maintenance requirements should be considered alongside the material.

Can I use a chest of drawers in a living room or hallway?

Yes. Some drawer chests can work well in living rooms, hallways and other spaces where additional storage is required. Consider the design, available space and the types of belongings you plan to store.

What is the difference between a chest of drawers and a sideboard?

A chest of drawers primarily provides storage through drawers, often for clothing and personal belongings. A sideboard is generally a wider storage unit that may combine cupboard doors, shelves and drawers, commonly used in living rooms and dining areas.

Do chests of drawers need to be fixed to the wall?

Some chests of drawers require wall fixing to reduce the risk of tipping, especially taller units. Always follow the manufacturer's assembly and safety instructions and use fixings suitable for your wall. Do not assume a chest is safe to leave unsecured simply because it feels stable.

Do chests of drawers arrive assembled?

Assembly requirements vary between products. Some chests arrive fully assembled, while others are supplied flat-packed and require assembly at home. Check the product specifications and included components before ordering.

How do I choose the right size chest of drawers?

Measure the available floor and wall space, including the width, height and depth of the proposed unit. Allow room for drawers to open fully and consider nearby beds, wardrobes and doors. Internal drawer dimensions are also useful when planning storage for larger items.

How should I clean and maintain a chest of drawers?

Cleaning requirements depend on the materials and finish. Use suitable products for wood, painted surfaces, metal, marble or mirrored panels, following the manufacturer's instructions. Avoid abrasive cleaners and excessive moisture, particularly on delicate or textured finishes.