What is a bedroom chair called?

There is no single name for a bedroom chair. It depends on the shape and the job it does. A small armless chair by the dresser, a cushy reading chair in the corner and a padded bench at the foot of the bed are all “bedroom chairs.” Here is what each one is usually called, why it can be worth having one, and how to choose.

Common names for bedroom chairs

• Slipper chair. A small, armless upholstered chair that sits fairly low to the floor, often with a tall back. It was traditionally used for putting on shoes and slippers, and its compact size suits bedrooms well.
• Reading or accent chair. An upholstered armchair placed in a corner or by a window. It is chosen for comfort, looks, or both. See the types of armchairs for styles that work here.
• Chaise longue. A long chair you can stretch your legs out on, good for lounging, reading or a short nap.
• Vanity stool. A small seat, with or without a low back, that tucks under a dressing table or vanity.
• Bench. A padded or wooden bench at the foot of the bed. It is handy for sitting to dress or for laying out clothes.

You may also see barrel chairs, Chesterfield-style chairs and swivel chairs used in bedrooms. For more compact options, see our guide to what a small chair is called.

Why have a chair in the bedroom?

A bedroom chair is a small piece with a lot of uses:

• A quiet reading spot away from the TV and the rest of the house.
• Getting dressed. Sitting down makes shoes, socks and tights easier.
• Feeding a baby or reading bedtime stories, where a supportive chair is kinder on your back than perching on the edge of a bed.
• A place to sit that is not the bed, which some people like to keep for sleep.
• Finishing the room. A chair in a corner or by a window gives the eye somewhere to land and makes a bedroom feel complete.

Be honest about one common fate, too: plenty of bedroom chairs end up holding clothes. If that is likely, a bench may serve you better.

Choosing for comfort

Think about how long you will sit. For a few minutes at a time, a slipper chair or bench is fine. For an hour with a book, look for:

• A seat deep enough to support your thighs, but not so deep that your feet leave the floor.
• A back that reaches at least your shoulder blades, or higher if you like to rest your head.
• Arms at a height that lets your shoulders relax.
• Cushioning that is soft on top but firm enough underneath that you do not sink to the frame.

If you can, sit in the chair first. What feels right varies from person to person. Our guide to what makes a chair comfortable explains the details.

Choosing for space

Measure the spot before you shop, and leave room to walk past and to open drawers and doors. Armless chairs like slipper chairs take up less space, both physically and visually. A chaise needs length, so it works best in a larger room or along a wall. In a very small bedroom, a stool that slides under a vanity or a slim bench at the foot of the bed may be the only seat that fits comfortably.

Finally, choose a color and fabric that work with the rest of the room. A chair can match your bedding and walls for a calm look, or contrast with them to become a focal point.