Some resources will tell you that a chest is tall while a dresser is shorter and wider, or that dresser drawers are deeper than a chest’s drawers. In the real world, the names are often used interchangeably, so focus on the essentials of the piece, like its dimensions and how many drawers it has.

For exterior measurements—

• Depth: If you need space to walk between your dresser or chest and your bed, measure between the wall and the edge of the bed. Leave enough space for your dresser depth PLUS at least 12 in. of open space for walking.
• Height: If you need to squeeze storage into a smaller room, choose a tall ches. If you want to hang a mirror, a piece of art, or your flat-screen TV over your dresser, go with a shorter double dresser.
• Width: Chests or dressers that are the width of a single drawer are great for smaller spaces. If you have plenty of floor space, choose a six-drawer or even nine-drawer dresser and leave your wall free for photos or décor.

The most common placements we see in bedrooms are across from the foot of the bed, on a wall parallel with the side of the bed, or in a corner of the room. You can even substitute a small chest for a night table if you need storage space right next to your bed.

Dressers and chests aren’t just for bedrooms; you can place them in entryways, at the end of the hallway, or behind your living room sofa.