Buying Guides

Chest of Drawers vs. Dresser: What’s the Difference and Which is Right for You?

When it comes to interior design, furniture is the ultimate marriage of form and function. Going well beyond mere decorating, furniture plays a key role in establishing how we interact with a space — dictating the purpose of the room by providing attractive options for sitting, sleeping, entertainment, and more. Dressers and chests of drawers are two of the most common furniture elements found in bedrooms (and occasionally other areas of the home). Both dressers and chests of drawers provide attractive, versatile options for storing clothing and other items. As such, people often use the two terms interchangeably. But despite their apparent similarities, dressers and chests of drawers are distinct pieces, each with their own unique features and advantages. So, what exactly is a chest of drawers? What makes it different from a dresser? And most importantly, which of these iconic storage solutions is best for you? Here, we take a closer look at the difference between a dresser and chest of drawers, so that you can choose the one that is right for your home.

What Is a Chest of Drawers?

A chest of drawers is a tall, vertical piece of furniture that typically consists of multiple stacked drawers. These drawers are arranged in a single column, making it a space-efficient storage solution that fits well into various room configurations — especially where floor space is limited. The primary function of a chest of drawers is to store clothing and other personal items, keeping them organized and easily accessible.

Benefits

Space-Saving
The height of a chest of drawers allows it to provide ample storage without taking up much floor space. This makes it ideal for smaller rooms or spaces where horizontal space is at a premium.
Organizational Efficiency
Typically, a chest of drawers will have between four to six drawers, but the number can vary. These drawers can also vary in size, but are most often uniform in terms of storage space. Multiple drawers provide ample storage for various items, helping keep everything tidy and in its place.
Versatility
The straightforward design of a chest of drawers focuses on functionality over artistic complexity. While it can be stylish, it usually lacks the expansive top surface seen on dressers, meaning they typically don’t double as display areas. This piece can be used in a variety of different spaces and is ideal for bedrooms, living rooms, hallways, or even offices.

Downsides

Limited Surface Area
The top surface is usually narrow, limiting the space available for display items or additional storage.
Height Consideration
The height may not be suitable for everyone, particularly children, individuals who prefer lower furniture, or those with very low ceilings.
Versatility
The straightforward design of a chest of drawers focuses on functionality over artistic complexity. While it can be stylish, it usually lacks the expansive top surface seen on dressers, meaning they typically don’t double as display areas. This piece can be used in a variety of different spaces and is ideal for bedrooms, living rooms, hallways, or even offices.

What Is a Dresser?

A dresser, in contrast, is a wider, horizontal piece of furniture that typically features a combination of drawers and sometimes cabinets. Dressers are designed to provide a blend of storage and display space, making them a central piece in bedroom decor. They often come with a mirror attached to the top (sometimes called a ‘vanity dresser’) or positioned above, enhancing their functionality.

Benefits

Ample Display Space
The width of a dresser allows for a larger top surface area, which can be used for display or additional storage (such as placing a television, mirror, books, or decorative items). The wide top surface is perfect for decorative items, personal mementos, or practical uses.
Versatile Storage
Dressers usually feature a mix of wide, deep drawers and sometimes smaller drawers or cabinets, providing versatile storage options. The combination of different drawer sizes and sometimes cabinets makes it easy to store a variety of items, from clothing to accessories and more.
Aesthetic Adaptability
Dressers are often designed with aesthetics in mind, featuring decorative elements that can complement the overall design of a room. Dressers come in a wide range of styles, making it easy to find one that matches your decor and personal taste.

Downsides

Larger Footprint
Typically, dressers take up more floor space than chests of drawers, which can be a disadvantage in smaller rooms.
Heavier and Bulkier
The larger size can make dressers more difficult to move and position compared to a chest of drawers.

Chest vs. Dresser: Which is Right for You? When deciding between a chest of drawers and a dresser, there are several factors you should be aware of: Size A chest of drawers is typically taller and narrower, taking up less room. On the other hand, a dresser is wider and shorter, offering a substantial top surface area for display or additional storage. Versatility While both pieces can be versatile, a chest of drawers often finds its way into various rooms beyond the bedroom, such as living rooms, hallways, or offices. Its compact footprint makes it suitable for tight spaces. A dresser, with its expansive top and combination storage, is more suited to the bedroom but can also serve well in larger living areas or as a TV stand. Drawer Width and Depth The drawers in a chest of drawers are usually uniform in size and smaller compared to those in a dresser. This makes them ideal for storing folded clothes, small items, and accessories. Dressers, however, often have a mix of drawer sizes, allowing for the storage of larger items like bedding, bulky clothing, and other sizable personal belongings. Display Space If you need a surface for displaying decorative items, personal effects, or practical items like a mirror or TV, a dresser will likely be the better choice. The wider top surface of a dresser provides more room for both storage and display, whereas the top of a chest of drawers is usually more limited and too high up to be easily within reach. What Storage Objects are Best Suited for Each? At their most basic, both of these furniture pieces are essentially storage solutions, and that means the chest vs. dresser debate needs to clearly address how each one best fulfills that role.

Chest of Drawers
Ideal for smaller items, folded clothing, and accessories. It's also great for rooms with limited space.
Dresser
Great for both smaller and larger items, as well as providing a more substantial surface area for display and additional storage.

Find the Perfect Fit for Your Space with Coleman Furniture Chest vs. dresser — how can you know which is the one for you? Choosing the right piece of furniture is not just about functionality; it’s also about finding a style that complements your home decor. Coleman Furniture offers an extensive selection of both chests of drawers and dressers, catering to a variety of tastes and needs. Whether you’re looking for a sleek, modern piece or a classic, timeless design, Coleman Furniture has you covered. Whether you're furnishing a new bedroom or looking to update your current space, Coleman Furniture offers quality and style that meets every need. Choosing between a dresser vs. chest of drawers doesn’t have to be a chore. Find the perfect chest of drawers or dresser to provide a stylish storage solution for your space with Coleman Furniture's expansive selection from popular brands. Looking for a complete bedroom solution? Make sure to bundle and save with bedroom sets!