10 Bedroom Without Dresser Ideas for Spacious & Chic Spaces

If you are looking for a less is more, clutter-free bedroom, you might consider designing it without a dresser in the mix.

Dressers are traditionally part of a bedroom set or collection that include drawers for clothing and accessories. Many include an attached mirror. Although dressers have their place in some home’s interior design they aren’t an important part of the overall room.

If space is limited, or you prefer a minimal approach there are other ways to keep your clothes neatly tucked away. 

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What Can I Put In A Bedroom Without A Dresser?

Two For One Form and Function

This, “why didn’t I think of this earlier,” idea makes loads of sense. We’re familiar with footstools and ottomans that double as storage, but how about beds!

A bed designed with built-in drawers and storage areas throughout look fabulous and adds usable storage space underneath the bed for clothing and linens. Today’s beds feature storage areas under the bed, in the headboard, and, the sides of the bed.

There are even beds with hydraulic lifts that open up to reveal storage space under the entire mattress. Now, this underused space is a convenient, practical area.

This is perfect for apartments and rooms that have limited and multi-purpose spaces. Perfect for every decor style from traditional, to modern this two-for-one feature is the way to go.

Tall Off The Floor Bed With Storage Bins

Similar to beds with built in storage, another option to take advantage of the space underneath a bed is to elevate a bed, and display decorative trunks, luggage and bins on wheels underneath.

This creates a minimalist, eclectic room design and a handy spot to find what you need conveniently and quickly without taking up floor space.

Decorative Trunks Offer Double Duty

Trunks and chests are another dresser option for your bedroom. These decorative workhorses are charming and offer a nostalgic warmth to a room.

Even though they may resemble an antique on the outside, today’s trunks are designed with under-the-lid organization as a priority. This allows you to easily store clothing, linens, and other personal valuables.

Since trunks were originally designed for traveling, they usually feature handles, providing an easy way to move around the room. Plus when displayed at the bottom or sides of the bed, or under a window, for example, provide added focal point without the clutter aspect of a dresser.

Armoires

An armoire also referred to as a wardrobe, is a tall chest or piece of free-standing furniture that is used for storing clothing, linens, jewelry, and other items.

Armoires are taller than dressers and take up less floor space while offering the same about of storage space. Armoires usually include doors that conceal organizational drawers, shelves, and hanging rods on the inside.

Armoires are available in a variety of styles offering a beautiful design element to a bedroom. 

Built In Wall Storage

The most convenient spot for storage are right in plain sight…the walls. They double as art and offer unlimited options in sizes, shapes, textures, colors and patterns.

On the wall cubes, shelves, clothing racks and decorative hooks are extremely versatile without taking up floor space. Clever re-purposed items like old drawers, crates, palettes that can be painted and refreshed to coordinate with the bedroom add eye-catching, creative focal points. 

Step Cabinets

A beautiful alternative for a dresser are step cabinets. Step cabinets are chests and drawers that are stacked on top of one another creating a pattern that resembles a staircase or steps.

They are visually appealing while offering exceptional storage. They can be displayed along any wall, in a corner, closet, or double as a room divider.

Step cabinets feature multiple places to store clothing, linens, shoes and other personal items. 

Bookcases

Bookcases are ideal for using in place of a dresser. After all, they are originally designed to hold multiple books. Arrange your clothing by color and fold neatly and tuck on the shelves, add organizational bins and crates that are aesthetically pleasing and incorporate a few books to coordinate with the theme.

Closet Organizers

If you prefer to keep your clothes out of sight, take full advantage of any sized closet with closet organizers. Custom closets are designed to use every inch of space, including the back of the closet door.

Bins, shelves, hanging rods, shoe holders, accessories and jewelry organizers offer the ultimate storage area.

Cubicles

Cubicles, or box-shaped storage units lined side by side in a framework, are a perfect no dresser option. Fold your clothing and stack it in individual cube style spaces.

Or insert baskets inside the cubes to add a decorative touch and easily find what you are looking for. Cubicles offer both vertical and horizontal so regardless how you display them, they are versatile.

Vintage Luggage

Eclectic and nostalgic, vintage suitcases are a decorative approach for storage. Multiple suitcases filled with clothing, linens, and personal items can be arranged in attractive groupings.

This grouping is perfect at the foot of your bed, or underneath a window. One or two suitcases double as bedside tables and continue the theme throughout the room.

Bedroom Ideas Without Dressers FAQ

Do bedrooms have to have a dresser? 

No, bedrooms do not always need a dresser. There are other options for storing clothing, linens and personal items including beds featuring built in storage, closet organizers and shelves. 

What can I store clothes in instead of a dresser?

There are unlimited organizational baskets, tubs, bins, shelves, that are perfect for storing clothing. Creative ideas that take an old item and repurpose it for storage provide eclectic and decorative touches. Vintage luggage, crates, trunks and boxes are ideas for storing clothes.

Are dressers out of style?

Dressers for bedrooms will always have a traditional, classic place in design, but they are less popular today than in previous years. People are seeking organizational space savers to store their clothing and belongings. They are also looking for space-saving ideas that don’t require floor space, including utilizing the walls, closets and space underneath the bed. Others prefer an eclectic design and are finding fashionable and functional storage options.

What can I put in my bedroom if I don’t need a dresser?

If you don’t need a dresser, you can consider putting a chest of drawers, a nightstand, a bachelor’s chest, a storage bed, an armoire, a toy chest, a trundle bed, or a daybed with drawers in your bedroom.

How can I make my plain bedroom look nice?

To make a plain bedroom look nice, you can consider implementing the following ideas:

1. Install a floating nightstand to add a modern touch and save space.
2. Enhance the bed’s appearance by adding a stylish headboard.
3. Personalize your pillows with unique patterns or designs.
4. Hang a tapestry on the wall to create a focal point and add visual interest.
5. Opt for a non-traditional nightstand, such as a vintage trunk or a stack of books.
6. Use mirrors strategically to create the illusion of a larger space.
7. Pay attention to small details like decorative knobs or handles on doors and drawers.
8. Dress up your doors with stylish door handles or a fresh coat of paint.

How can I make my bedroom look nice without money?

To make your bedroom look nice without spending money, you can try the following ideas:

• Enhance the cozy factor by adding an abundance of pillows.
• Create a visually appealing gallery wall to showcase your favorite artwork or photographs.
• Optimize the lighting in your room to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
• Give your walls a fresh and stylish look by applying a new coat of paint.
• Update the hardware on your furniture or doors to give them a modern and polished appearance.
• Get creative with a console table by using it as a decorative and functional piece.
• Add a touch of nature by incorporating some greenery, such as potted plants or fresh flowers, into your bedroom decor.
• Ultimately, the possibilities are endless, so feel free to experiment and personalize your space according to your taste and preferences.

What are necessary furniture in a bedroom?

The necessary furniture in a bedroom includes a bed frame, mattress, nightstands, and a dresser. However, once you have selected your bedroom furniture, there are still additional choices to consider. It is important to think about bedding, a rug, window coverings, and lighting to complete the overall look and feel of the bedroom.

How to decorate a room with cheap things?

Enhance the appearance of your bedroom by updating the hardware, similar to adding jewelry to an outfit. Spruce up your pillows to add a touch of elegance. Incorporate a tray into the room’s decor for both functionality and style. Make a bold statement by using a blanket as a focal point. Introduce different textures to create visual interest. Personalize your nightstand with decorative items that reflect your style. Upgrade your mirror to instantly elevate the room’s ambiance. Create the illusion of architectural features without the cost by using faux elements.

Do you need a dresser and a chest?

You may need both a dresser and a chest, or you may only require one of them, depending on your personal preference, the size of your room, and the amount of available space. Ultimately, there is no correct or incorrect answer to whether you need a dresser and a chest; it all depends on your individual needs and preferences.

What is an alternative for a dresser?

An alternative for a dresser is to utilize various storage options such as wall hooks, baskets, under-bed storage pieces, back-of-door storage pieces, and even a nightstand with a few drawers can serve as a temporary solution, according to her.

Do people use dressers anymore?

People still use dressers, despite the increasing number of closets with built-in drawers. Many individuals are uncertain about whether or not to spend money on a dresser when furnishing their bedrooms. Nevertheless, dressers serve various purposes and should not be overlooked.

How do I not have a dresser?

To avoid having a dresser, you can follow these suggestions to maximize space and organize your clothes: Start by decluttering to create more room in your small space. If you have a walk-in closet, consider installing drawers to store your clothing. Another option is to use a cost-effective rolling clothes rack to hang your clothes. Additionally, you can utilize vertical space by installing a wall-mounted pipe clothes rack. Lastly, an over-the-door clothes rack can also be a practical solution.

What is a mini dresser called?

A mini dresser is commonly known as a “chest of drawers” or simply a “dresser.” A chest of drawers is a furniture piece comprising a series of stacked drawers, typically utilized for storing clothing and various belongings.

What is a chest vs dresser?

A chest of drawers and a dresser are two types of furniture used for storage. A chest of drawers is typically taller and narrower, while a dresser is shorter and wider, offering more specific storage options for clothing, linens, and other items. While a corner chest of drawers can be versatile and used in various rooms like bedrooms, living rooms, or offices, dressers with mirrors are better suited for larger bedrooms.

What is the difference between a dresser and a wardrobe?

The difference between a dresser and a wardrobe lies in their functionality for clothing storage. While a dresser primarily allows for folding items, a wardrobe offers the added feature of hanging clothing, in addition to a few drawers for folded items.

What is a dresser without a mirror called?

A dresser without a mirror is commonly referred to as a bureau or a chiffonier. It is a tall and narrow piece of furniture, typically chest-height, with drawers for storage. It should not be confused with a chest or chest of drawers, which may have a different design and may include a mirror.

Can I use a dresser as an entry table?

Yes, you can use a dresser as an entry table. A dresser or credenza can serve as a practical and stylish alternative to a traditional console table. If you have a spacious hallway or entryway, incorporating a larger piece like a dresser allows for more surface area to decorate and provides additional storage with its cabinets or drawers.

Do people still put dressers in bedrooms?

People still put dressers in bedrooms if they have a need for additional storage for their clothes. However, if there is not a lot of clothing to be stored and extra storage space is not necessary, then a storage bench or ottoman might be a more suitable alternative.

What is the purpose of a dresser in the bedroom?

The purpose of a dresser in the bedroom is to provide storage for various items such as clothing, shoes, accessories, jewelry, purses, and scarves.

Are bedroom dresser mirrors out of style?

Bedroom dresser mirrors are not necessarily out of style, as their popularity can be influenced by the overall style of the room. If your room features vintage pieces, it is likely that a dresser with a matching mirror would be a suitable addition. However, if your room consists of entirely new furniture, incorporating a vintage dresser with a mirror may not create a cohesive decor flow.

Is it OK to put a dresser in a closet?

It is acceptable to place a dresser inside a closet. Generally, most dressers can fit in most closets without the need to remove the doors. Closets typically have a depth of around 24 inches, while dressers are usually less than 20 inches deep. As an alternative, you can hang a curtain instead of using the closet doors.

What is the purpose of a dresser?

The purpose of a dresser is to provide storage for clothes or other items, typically in the form of a tall, upright piece of furniture with sliding drawers. For example, in the US, dressers are commonly found in bedrooms and can be filled with sweaters or other garments.

Do minimalists use dressers?

Minimalists do use dressers, but they typically have very little furniture in their bedrooms. A minimalist bedroom will only have the essential pieces of furniture, such as a bed, a bedside table with a light, and a dresser. While there may be other items present, these are generally considered the basic necessities in a minimalist bedroom.