A stool at the foot of the bed serves several functions simultaneously: it acts as a storage surface for clothes, as a seat for dressing and undressing, and as a design element that visually connects the space between the bed and other furniture. For it to fulfill these tasks, its height, width, and distance from the bed must be carefully chosen. A stool that is too high appears clunky, while one that is too low visually disappears. The top edge of the mattress and the height of the bed frame also play a role. Knowing these measurements helps you find a piece of furniture that blends in harmoniously and is useful every day.
Which height suits the bed
The top edge of a stool in front of the bed should ideally be 10 to 15 cm below the top edge of the mattress. For a typical bed height of 55 to 60 cm, this results in a stool height of 40 to 50 cm. This staggering ensures that the stool does not compete with the bed edge and is perceived as an independent piece of furniture. At the same time, it remains high enough to sit on comfortably without having to bend the knees too much.
Lower stools with a height of 35 to 38 cm are suitable for beds with a low frame construction or if the stool is primarily intended as a storage surface. Taller models from 52 cm fit box-spring beds or beds with high headboards, where the overall proportions are more generous. Always measure from the top edge of the mattress to the floor, not just the bed frame.
Width and distance from the bed frame
The width of the stool depends on the width of the bed. For a single bed with a width of 90 or 100 cm, a stool of 60 to 80 cm is sufficient. For double beds with a width of 160 or 180 cm, 100 to 140 cm is appropriate. The stool should not fill the entire width of the bed, but leave 20 to 30 cm of space on each side. This keeps the room visually light and allows you to walk past the stool without bumping into it.
The distance between the bed frame and the stool is usually 15 to 25 cm. This gap allows you to change bed linen and clean the floor without having to move the stool. In smaller bedrooms, the distance can be reduced to 10 cm, provided the stool is light enough to be lifted when needed.
What a stool in front of the bed is good for
A stool primarily serves as a storage surface for clothes that will be worn again the next day or do not yet belong in the wardrobe. Jackets, sweaters, or trousers lie more neatly there than on a chair and take up less space. In addition, the stool offers a seating surface for putting on shoes or changing socks without having to sit on the edge of the bed, which is thus less stressed.
Upholstered stools with a firm cover are also suitable for placing a bag or accessories in the morning. Models with storage compartments under the seat can also accommodate bed linen or pillows. In guest rooms, a stool serves as a luggage rack, so visitors do not have to place their luggage on the floor.
Material and cover
Stools in front of the bed are usually upholstered and covered with velvet, linen, or leather. Velvet in muted colors such as grey, taupe, or dark blue blends into classic bedrooms and can be combined with wood and metal. Linen appears more understated and is suitable for bright rooms with plenty of daylight. Leather is more durable and tolerates more frequent use, for example, if the stool is used daily as a seat.
The frame is usually made of solid wood or metal. Wooden legs in walnut or oak match bed frames made of the same material. Metal frames in brass or blackened steel create a contrast and connect the stool with lamps or handles in the room. Make sure that the legs are stable enough to support the weight of a sitting person, even if the stool is primarily intended as a storage surface.
Guidelines for common bed sizes
| Bed width | Recommended stool width | Stool height | Distance to bed frame |
|---|---|---|---|
| 90–100 cm | 60–80 cm | 40–48 cm | 15–20 cm |
| 140–160 cm | 100–120 cm | 42–50 cm | 15–25 cm |
| 180–200 cm | 120–140 cm | 45–52 cm | 20–25 cm |
What to look for when buying
- Measure the top edge of the mattress, not just the bed frame, to determine the appropriate stool height.
- Check if the stool is light enough to lift when making the bed or vacuuming.
- Choose a cover that matches the rest of the room's textile furnishings, such as curtains or carpets.
- Ensure stable upholstery that retains its shape even after prolonged sitting.
- Consider the room depth: in narrow bedrooms, the stool should not be more than 40 cm deep.
- Models with storage compartments offer additional utility but often increase the seat height by 2 to 3 cm.
You can find suitable pieces under Stools and Headboards. Information on how the pieces are constructed, available dimensions, and delivery times can be found on Eichholtz Benches and Stools and Eichholtz Headboards.
Frequently asked questions
Can a stool also be placed further away from the bed?
Yes, if the room is large enough, the stool can also be placed 40 to 60 cm away from the bed frame. It then functions as an independent seating furniture, for example, in front of a window or next to a wardrobe. Make sure that the passage to the bed remains at least 80 cm wide so that you can walk past comfortably.
What depth should a stool in front of the bed have?
The usual depth is between 35 and 45 cm. Deeper models from 50 cm offer more seating comfort but require correspondingly more space in the room. In bedrooms with less than 3 meters depth, a maximum depth of 40 cm is recommended so that the stool does not block the way to the door.
Does a stool also fit a box-spring bed?
Yes, for box-spring beds with a total height of 60 to 70 cm, the stool should be chosen accordingly higher, ideally 48 to 55 cm. This maintains the visual staggering. Make sure that the stool is stable enough to stand securely even at this height.
How do you clean an upholstered stool?
Velvet and linen can be cleaned with a soft brush or a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery nozzle. Remove stains with a slightly damp cloth and mild soapy water, without soaking the fabric. Leather is cared for with a special leather cleaner. Regular vacuuming prevents dust from settling in the fibers.