A bedside table is more than just a place to leave your phone and a glass of water. It’s the final piece of the puzzle in a well-organised bedroom, a functional companion that holds your night-time essentials and helps set a calming tone for your personal space. Yet, finding the right one can be a challenge. With so many styles, sizes and features available, it's easy to feel overwhelmed.
This guide is designed to cut through the clutter. As the Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer, my role is to provide practical, straightforward advice to help you select a bedside table that fits your space, meets your needs and complements your style. We will explore key considerations and highlight a few options that stand out for their design and utility.
How to Choose a Bedside Table: A Practical Guide
Before you start browsing, focusing on a few key factors will simplify your search and ensure you find a piece that you'll be happy with for years to come.
1. Measure Your Space Accurately
The most common mistake is choosing a table that's the wrong scale for the room or bed. To avoid this, take three key measurements:
- Height: Your bedside table should be roughly level with the top of your mattress. This makes it easy to reach for items without straining. A table that is drastically taller or shorter can look awkward and be impractical.
- Width: Consider the available space next to your bed. If you're in a smaller flat or have a large bed in a compact room, a narrow bedside table or a small bedside table will be essential to avoid a cramped feel.
- Depth: Ensure the table doesn't protrude so far that it obstructs pathways, especially if your bedroom door or a wardrobe is nearby.
2. Prioritise Function and Storage
Think about what you need to store. Are you a minimalist who only needs space for a lamp and a book, or do you need to hide away chargers, lotions and other personal items?
- Open Shelving: A simple design with an open shelf is great for displaying books or decorative items and offers easy access.
- Drawers: A bedside table with drawers is an excellent choice for keeping clutter out of sight. This helps maintain a tidy, serene environment, which is ideal for a bedroom.
- Modern Conveniences: For those who want to streamline their technology, a bedside table with a charging station is a game-changer. These models feature built-in USB ports and AC outlets, eliminating messy extension cords.
3. Match Material with Your Style
The material of your side table for bedroom use defines its look, feel and durability.
- Wood: A solid wood bedside table offers a timeless, sturdy appeal that works well in traditional, rustic or Scandinavian-inspired interiors. It brings warmth and natural texture to a room.
- Manufactured Wood: Often finished in neutral colours like white or black, these are versatile and fit well with a modern bedside table aesthetic. A white bedside table can brighten a room and create a sense of space.
- Metal & Glass: These materials lend themselves to industrial or minimalist designs, offering a sleek and contemporary feel.
Our Bedside Table Recommendations
Based on common user needs for style, space and functionality, here are a few recommendations from our current selection.
For Lovers of Classic, Sturdy Furniture
Vida Designs Bedside Table Panama Solid Pine 3 Drawers Natural Oak
- Why It Stands Out: This table is all about traditional craftsmanship and substantial storage. Made from solid pine with a warm oak stain, it has a durable, high-quality feel that is built to last. Its three deep drawers offer ample space to keep your bedside organised.
- Pros:
- Constructed from high-quality solid pine for durability.
- Features three generously sized drawers for excellent storage.
- The timeless design and natural oak finish complement a wide range of décor styles.
- Who is it for? Anyone seeking a robust, traditional piece of furniture with significant storage capacity. It's particularly well-suited for master bedrooms where classic style and functionality are a priority.
For Maximising Small Spaces
HaluPeit Slim Bedside Tables Set of 2, Narrow Side Table with 2 Drawers
- Why It Stands Out: Specifically designed for tight spaces, this narrow bedside table measures only 30cm wide. The clever design includes two drawers that can be placed on different shelves, allowing you to customise the layout. Coming as a bedside tables set of 2, it provides a coordinated and balanced look for any bed.
- Pros:
- Ultra-narrow 30cm width is ideal for small rooms and flats.
- Interchangeable drawer positions offer flexible storage solutions.
- The modern, minimalist black finish blends easily with various interior styles.
- Who is it for? Renters, flat dwellers, or anyone with limited space beside their bed. It’s a practical solution for creating functional storage without overwhelming the room.
For the Tech-Savvy and Modern Home
HaluPeit Bedside Tables Set of 2 with 3 Drawers, Charging Station and LED
- Why It Stands Out: This modern bedside table combines storage with technology. Each table in this set of two features an integrated bedside table with charging station, including two AC sockets and two USB ports. It also comes with a multi-colour LED light strip, controllable via remote, which can serve as a reading lamp or an ambient light.
- Pros:
- Built-in charging station with 2 AC sockets and 2 USB ports to reduce cable clutter.
- Includes a remote-controlled LED light with 25 colour options and adjustable brightness.
- Comes as a set of two with three drawers each, offering great value and storage.
- Who is it for? Those who want ultimate convenience and a modern, feature-rich addition to their bedroom. It’s perfect for anyone tired of fumbling for chargers or wanting to add a touch of customisable light to their room.
Looking for Other Options?
While these selections address some of the most common needs, your perfect match might be something different. If you're looking for another size, colour or style, we invite you to explore our full range.
? Explore our complete collection of Side Storage Cabinets
Frequently Asked Questions
What height should a bedside table be?
A good rule of thumb is to choose a table that is within a few centimetres of the height of your mattress. For a 60cm high mattress, a table between 55cm and 65cm tall would be ideal. This ensures you can comfortably reach for items without having to sit up or stretch too far.
Do my bedside tables have to match?
Not at all. While a matching bedside tables set of 2 creates a symmetrical and cohesive look, using two different but complementary tables can add personality and visual interest to your room. The key is to ensure they are of a similar height and scale to maintain a sense of balance.
What should I keep in a bedside table with drawers?
Drawers are perfect for organising items you want close but out of sight. Common items include charging cables, books, journals, hand cream, medication and sleep masks. Dedicating each drawer to a specific category can help you stay organised.
