TV Stands: How to Pick the Right Size and Place It Right

Got a new flat‑screen and wondering where to put it? A good TV stand does more than hold the screen – it ties the room together, hides cables and keeps everything safe. Let’s break down the steps so you can pick a stand that fits your TV, your room and your lifestyle.

Picking the Right Size

First thing: measure your TV. Most manufacturers list the screen width, but you need the whole cabinet width for a stand. A safe rule is to choose a stand that’s at least as wide as the TV, preferably a few inches wider. That prevents a wonky look and gives room for side speakers if you have them.

Next, think about height. The sweet spot is when the center of the screen sits at eye level when you’re seated. For most sofas, that means a stand height of 20‑30 inches. If you love reclining or have low‑profile chairs, you might want a taller stand to keep the view comfortable.

Storage matters too. Look for stands with shelves, drawers or cabinets if you need space for gaming consoles, Blu‑ray players or remote‑control boxes. Open shelves are great for easy access, while closed cabinets hide clutter for a cleaner look.

Material choice is another quick decision. Wood gives a warm, classic feel and blends well with rustic décor – perfect for a cottage vibe. Metal or glass offers a sleek, modern edge and can make a small room feel bigger. Pick what matches the rest of your furniture.

Placement and Safety Tips

Once you’ve got the right size, where should you put it? Keep the stand on a sturdy floor – carpet works but can hide wobble. If you have hardwood or tile, consider a rug under the stand to protect both the floor and the TV from accidental bumps.

Watch the back wall. A stand that’s too close to the wall can trap heat and affect TV performance. Leave at least a couple of inches of breathing space. If you’re using a wall mount, make sure the mount’s brackets fit the stand’s back panel or go straight to wall studs.

Cable management is often overlooked. Many stands come with built‑in holes or channels. Use them to run power cords, HDMI cables and speaker wires neatly. If the stand doesn’t have holes, drill a small one – it saves a tangled mess and looks tidy.

Safety: never place a heavy TV on a flimsy stand. Check the weight rating on the product page and compare it to your TV’s weight. If you have kids or pets that love to climb, anchor the stand to the wall with brackets. It prevents tip‑overs and gives you peace of mind.

Finally, test the view. Sit on your sofa, glance at the TV and see if you need to adjust the tilt or distance. The ideal viewing distance is roughly 1.5‑2.5 times the screen diagonal. For a 55‑inch TV, that’s about 7‑11 feet – perfect for most living rooms.

Choosing a TV stand doesn’t have to be a headache. Measure, match style, think about storage and safety, and you’ll end up with a piece that looks great and works even better. Ready to pick yours? Browse our collection for stands that fit every size, material and budget.