How to Choose the Right Dresser

Written by: Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer

Are you looking for a way to bring order to your home without compromising on style? A lack of storage is a common problem that can quickly lead to clutter in your living room or bedroom. The right dresser or sideboard can solve this problem, not only by offering practical storage space but also by serving as a stylish piece of furniture.

This article serves as a practical guide. We will introduce various types of storage furniture and provide you with objective criteria to help you make your choice. We will also present a selection of models that meet different functional and design requirements.

What to Look for When Buying a Dresser

The range of storage furniture for living rooms and bedrooms is vast. To make the right decision, you should consider three key aspects: material, size, and functionality.

1. Choosing the Material and Type

The choice of material affects not only the appearance but also the durability and maintenance of the furniture.

• Engineered Wood (e.g., Particleboard): This is a common and cost-effective choice for many modern pieces of furniture. Models like a classic white dresser or a wood-effect sideboard are often made from laminated or veneered particleboard. They provide a stable structure for drawers and doors.
• Metal Frame with Fabric Drawers: A fabric dresser combines a lightweight yet sturdy steel frame with foldable non-woven fabric drawers. This design is particularly flexible, easy to transport, and quick to assemble. It is excellent for organising clothes and other lightweight items.
• Open Shelving Systems: A cube storage unit offers open storage space, creating a more airy feel. It is ideal for displaying books, decorative items, or baskets. Such furniture is often modular and can be positioned versatilely in a room.

2. Dimensions and Space Planning

Measure the available space accurately before making a decision. Consider not only the width and depth but also the height.

• A low and wide sideboard fits well under a window or a wall-mounted TV in the living room.
• A taller chest of drawers makes optimal use of vertical space in the bedroom or hallway, offering plenty of storage with a small footprint.
• Ensure there is enough room to fully open drawers and doors.

3. Open vs. Closed Storage

Consider what you want to store.

• Closed storage (drawers and doors) creates a tidy and serene look, as the contents are hidden from view. This is ideal for clothing, documents, and other personal items.
• Open storage (compartments and shelves) is suitable for displaying decorative objects or keeping frequently used items within easy reach. A combination of both can be a very practical solution.

Recommended Storage Furniture Selections

Here is a selection of furniture that caters to different needs—from flexible fabric dressers to elegant sideboards.

1. Ochama 7-Drawer Fabric Dresser

What sets it apart: This model combines a sturdy metal frame with seven spacious fabric drawers in two different sizes. The design in rustic brown and matte black steel gives it a modern industrial look. The top shelf, made of particleboard, provides an additional, durable surface.

Benefits:

• Organised Storage: Seven drawers allow for easy sorting of clothes, linens, and accessories.
• Sturdy Construction: The steel frame and adjustable feet ensure stability, even on uneven floors. An included anti-tip kit provides extra safety.
• Thoughtful Details: Raised edges on the back and side bars on the top prevent items from sliding off.
• Maximum Static Load Capacity: According to the manufacturer, the top surface can hold up to 50 kg, and each drawer can hold up to 3 kg.

Who it's for: For those looking for a lightweight, flexible, and quick-to-assemble storage solution for the bedroom or dressing room. Ideal for rental apartments, as assembly and disassembly are straightforward.

2. Galano Nice 4-Cube Multifunctional Cabinet

What sets it apart: This cube storage unit impresses with its minimalist and versatile design. It can be set up horizontally as a wide, low shelf or vertically as a narrow, tall shelf. The laminated particleboard construction in a brown finish complements many interior styles.

Benefits:

• Flexible Orientation: Can be used lying down or standing up to adapt to different room layouts.
• Open Design: The four cube-shaped compartments are perfect for displaying books and decor or for use with matching storage boxes.
• Compact Dimensions: With a width of 120.8 cm (horizontal) or a height of 120.8 cm (vertical), it offers storage space without appearing bulky.

Who it's for: For users who prefer an open and decorative storage solution. It works well in the living room, study, or a teenager's room to create order while showcasing personal items.

3. Dresser with 2 Doors and 3 Drawers in White

What sets it apart: This modern dresser in white features an elegant aesthetic. Special characteristics include the decorative grooved fronts and subtle gold-finish handles. The piece stands on a metal frame, which gives it a light, floating appearance.

Benefits:

• Combined Storage: Offers a mix of three central drawers and two cabinet compartments with doors.
• Adjustable Shelves: Behind each door is a height-adjustable shelf, allowing you to customise the storage space to the size of the items you need to store.
• Stability and Easy Maintenance: An adjustable central foot provides stability, while the 14.5 cm floor clearance makes cleaning underneath the furniture easy.
• Load Capacity: The top surface is designed to hold up to 45 kg, and each drawer up to 5 kg, according to the manufacturer.

Who it's for: For anyone looking for a stylish piece of storage furniture for the living room and bedroom that combines closed storage with a sophisticated design. It is an excellent choice for storing dinnerware, table linens, or clothing out of sight.

Explore More Options

Haven't found the right solution for you yet? Every home has unique requirements for size, style, and function. In our broader selection, you'll find more models, from compact nightstands to spacious wardrobes.

Discover More Bedroom Wardrobes

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the difference between a dresser and a sideboard?

Although the terms are often used interchangeably, there are traditional differences. A sideboard or buffet is typically lower and wider and is often used in the dining or living room to store dishes and table linens. A dresser is often taller and narrower, primarily equipped with drawers, and is traditionally found in the bedroom for storing clothes. Today, the lines are blurred, and many pieces of furniture combine features of both types.

How much weight can a fabric dresser hold?

The load capacity varies depending on the model and construction. It is important to check the manufacturer's specifications. For the Ochama fabric dresser featured here, the maximum static load capacity is 3 kg per drawer and 50 kg for the top surface. Fabric drawers are designed for lighter items such as clothing, scarves, or toys.

What should I pay attention to when assembling storage furniture?

Read the assembly instructions carefully before you begin and check that all parts are present. Work on a soft surface to avoid scratching the floor or the furniture. For taller or narrower furniture, it is very important for safety to use the included anti-tip kit and secure the furniture to the wall, especially in households with children.