Furniture Dressers Glossary and Terms

Are you confused by all of the different terms related to furniture dressers or bedroom furniture in general? This glossary will help you sort it all out so you can buy the piece of furniture that you actually need.

 

Terms You Need to Know – Furniture Dressers

Dressers: Originally used in dining rooms for displaying and storing dishes, a dresser is now a piece of furniture that is used for storing clothing in bedrooms. Most dressers have several drawers for storage and some include a mirror on top. A dresser is often sold on its own, but can also be a part of a bedroom set.

 

Unfinished Dresser: An unfinished dresser is exactly what it sounds like: a dresser, usually made out of wood, that has never been painted or stained (in other words, finished). While some people like the convenience of a fully finished dresser, others like to be able to put their own unique touch on it. An unfinished dresser allows you to paint it any way and in any color you like.

Chest of Drawers: A chest of drawers is very similar to a dresser and sometimes the terms are used interchangeably. Like a dresser, a chest of drawers is a piece of furniture that that has several drawers and is usually used in a bedroom for storage. The only difference is that a chest is usually taller and narrower than a dresser, and is therefore often used for smaller items. A chest of drawers may also be more appropriate for a smaller space.

Bedroom Set: If you need furniture for your entire bedroom, then you could buy a bedroom set. A bedroom set consists of several pieces of furniture in the same material and style that are made specifically for a bedroom. A set can include a bed frame, a nightstand, a dresser, an armoire, a desk, a bench, a mirror, and/or a chest of drawers. A bedroom set is perfect for those who know exactly what style they want for their bedroom and want each piece of furniture to be in the exact same style.

Armoire: An armoire is another type of bedroom furniture that many people want or need. It is usually big enough to include space for hanging clothing, several drawers or compartments, and has two doors that close, making it appear like a closet. Armoires are also referred to as wardrobes or wardrobe armoires.

Stain: Many dressers are made out of wood and then stained to bring out the wood’s natural color or to give it a more dramatic color. When looking for a wood dresser, you’ll want to know what kind of stain appeals to you and what colors will match your décor.

Antique: Antique can refer to both the style and the actual age of the furniture. Those who want a true antique dresser will have to study up on their history and comb through antique stores either in person or online to find what they are looking for. For those who want an antique style, there are plenty of places that sell furniture that has been “antiqued,” which is a paint process that gives wood an older, yet charming look. You could also buy an unfinished piece and apply the paint process yourself.

Traditional: Not to be confused with antique, traditional refers to style and not age. Traditional is more of a classic look that that blends in with almost any décor and usually uses wood as the main material.

Modern: Modern is also a style, often equated with contemporary, that tends to use less traditional materials and colors. Those who want something that will stand out from the crowd and is more unique will want to purchase something modern.

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