How Tall Should a Dresser Be? Here’s the Real Deal
Let’s be honest: Choosing a dresser isn’t just about slotting a storage unit into your bedroom. It’s about making your mornings smoother, your evenings calmer, and your space feel just right.
So, if you're asking, how tall should a dresser be — you're already asking the right question. Let’s break it down.
Decoding dresser heights: Average vs. taller vs. shorter
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to dresser dimensions. That’s because real life — and real rooms — aren’t uniform. But there are typical types of dressers and their dimensions that can help guide your search.
The Crescent 6-Drawer Dresser. Picture credits: @jessthrowiton_
The Seb 6-Drawer Dresser. Picture credits: @kimberlyj_king
| Dresser type | Typical height range (inches) | Typical height range (cm) | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Typical 3-6 drawer dressers | 30–45 inches | 76–114 cm | A versatile sweet spot for most adults. Easy to access drawers. Doubles as a vanity with a mirror. |
| Tall dressers/chests | 45-60+ inches | 114–152+ cm | Great for saving floor space in smaller rooms. Adds height and visual drama. Best for storing less-used items. |
| Short dressers/consoles | Under 30 inches | Under 76 cm | Ideal for children’s rooms, modern minimalist storage, or even as a modern console table with storage. Comfortable for seated access. |
What to keep in mind when searching for your perfect dresser
A ‘normal’ dresser height is whatever feels best for you when you’re using it. Here are a few design truths to keep in your back pocket:
Your height matters more than you think: Nobody wants to strain their neck or back just to grab a t-shirt. The average height of a dresser (76 to 114 cm) tends to work well for most, but if you're particularly tall or petite, consider how you'll interact with it every day. If you're pairing it with a mirror, make sure the top hits a comfortable line of sight.
Room size and flow: In smaller bedrooms, a tall, narrow dresser might save floor space, preventing the room from feeling too cluttered. In contrast, a lower, wider dresser can visually anchor a room and offer generous surface space for decor, tech, or a coffee mug you forgot from two nights ago.
Storage needs: Do you have an endless supply of sweaters, or are you a minimalist with just a few essentials? Taller dressers offer more vertical storage, ideal for folded clothes. Lower, wider dressers might be better for items you want to spread out, or for accommodating larger, bulkier items in fewer, wider drawers.
Function is in the tiny details: You’ll be using these dressers daily, so it’s worth it to think about the small things that’ll help add functionality to your home. Think smooth-glide drawers, thoughtful proportions (so your bedroom Feng Shui isn’t thrown off), and sturdy construction.
The Harper 6-Drawer Dresser and Crimson Wall Mirror. Picture credits: @kaileylewisss
Find the dresser that fits your life
Dressers don’t get enough credit. They hold the chaos of a busy life with quiet confidence. They hide clutter, store stories, and (when the height is just right) help you move through your space with ease.
So, how tall should a dresser be? It should be tall enough to fit your needs, low enough to serve your habits, and beautiful enough to become part of your life story.
Frequently asked questions about dresser heights
What are usually on tall dressers?
Tall dressers, or chests of drawers, are prime real estate for decor, not daily essentials. Think framed artwork or sentimental photos, a statement lamp or ambient light, and diffusers or candles for a mood-setting moment.
Since those top drawers are a reach for some, reserve them for off-season clothes or less-used items. Your everyday go-tos? They belong within easy reach in a shorter dresser.
What is a normal dresser height?
The normal dresser height typically ranges from 76 to 114 cm. This offers a comfortable height for most adults to access drawers without excessive bending or reaching, and also works well for placing a mirror above it to create a vanity.
How tall should a dresser be for a bedroom?
The ideal height for a dresser in your bedroom depends on your personal height, the size of your room, and how you intend to use the dresser. For average comfort and versatility, a dresser between 76 and 114 cm in height is usually recommended. However, it’s all about finding that sweet spot that seamlessly integrates into your lived-in space.
