Choosing the Perfect Bedside Table: Our Top Recommendations

A well-chosen bedside table is more than just a place to leave your phone and a glass of water. It’s a key piece of furniture that completes your bedroom, providing essential storage and contributing to a calm, organised atmosphere. Yet, finding the right one can be a challenge. With so many styles, sizes and materials, it's easy to feel overwhelmed.

This guide is designed to simplify your search. As a Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer, my role is to help you find practical and stylish solutions that fit your home and budget. We will explore what to look for in a quality bedside table and highlight a few standout options to help you create the restful sanctuary you deserve.

How to Select the Right Bedside Table for Your Space

Before you start browsing, considering a few key factors will ensure you choose a piece that is both beautiful and functional.

1. Get the Proportions Right

The most common mistake is choosing a nightstand that is too tall or too short for the bed. For comfortable use, the top surface of your table should be roughly level with the top of your mattress. Measure the height from your floor to the top of your mattress before you shop. Also, consider the table's footprint. If you have limited space, a small bedside table with a compact design will prevent the room from feeling cramped.

2. Decide on Your Storage Needs

Think about what you need to store. Do you prefer to keep things tucked away, or do you like having items on display?

• Bedside table with drawers: A 2 drawer bedside table is an excellent choice for hiding clutter like charging cables, medication and personal items. It helps maintain a clean, minimalist look.
• Open Shelving: A table with open shelves is ideal for keeping books, magazines, or decorative objects within easy reach.
• Combination: Some designs offer both drawers and shelves, giving you the flexibility to conceal some items and display others. A bedside cabinet often provides the most enclosed storage.

3. Match Your Style and Materials

Your bedroom side table should complement your existing decor. A white bedside table is a versatile classic that works well with most colour schemes, from modern to traditional. For a more specific look, consider the material. A modern bedside table might feature clean lines and a sleek finish, while a rustic bedside table could incorporate natural wood tones or distressed details. A rattan bedside table can add a touch of bohemian or coastal texture to your room.

Our Top Bedside Table Recommendations

Here are a few recommendations that balance style, function and value, selected to suit a range of UK homes.

Vida Designs Denver 2 Drawer Bedside Table in White

Why It Stands Out The Denver model is the definition of modern simplicity. Its handle-free design and clean, square profile create an uncluttered and contemporary look. The smooth-gliding drawers operate effortlessly, enhancing its minimalist appeal while providing practical storage.

Pros

• Sleek, Modern Design: The handle-free construction is perfect for minimalist and Scandinavian-inspired interiors.
• Practical Storage: Features two spacious drawers, each with a 5 kg load capacity, to keep your essentials organised.
• Compact Footprint: With dimensions of H40 x W29.5 x D29.5 cm, it's an ideal choice for smaller bedrooms or flats.

Who is it for? This table is perfect for anyone seeking a functional, modern bedside table that won't overwhelm a smaller space. It’s a great fit for city flats, guest rooms, or anyone who appreciates a clean and streamlined aesthetic.

Vida Designs Arlington 2 Drawer Bedside Table in White/Oak Effect

Why It Stands Out The Arlington bedside chest offers a timeless look inspired by classic Shaker design. The combination of a neutral white frame and an oak-effect tabletop adds warmth and character. Traditional knob handles complete the look, making it a piece that feels both familiar and stylish.

Pros

• Classic Style: The Shaker-inspired design and two-tone finish integrate seamlessly with traditional and country-style decor.
• Ample Storage: Two deep drawers provide plenty of room for books, electronics and other bedside necessities.
• Sturdy Construction: Made from durable particleboard, it features a generous tabletop with a 10 kg weight capacity.

Who is it for? This is an excellent option for those who favour a more traditional or transitional style. Its larger dimensions (H51 x W45 x D40 cm) and classic appearance make it well-suited for master bedrooms or spacious guest rooms.

Interiors by Premier Sherman 1 Drawer Bedside Table in White/Rattan

Why It Stands Out The Sherman table brings a touch of rustic, bohemian charm to the bedroom. The standout feature is its natural rattan drawer panel, which adds texture and warmth against the clean white wood frame. It cleverly combines a drawer with an open shelf, offering versatile storage.

Pros

• Textured, Rustic Charm: The natural rattan panel creates an earthy, stylish focal point.
• Versatile Storage: A combination of a closed drawer and an open lower shelf allows you to store items out of sight and display others.
• Multi-functional Design: While perfect as a bedside table, its style and size also make it a great side table for a living room or hallway.

Who is it for? This piece is for the style-conscious individual looking to add warmth and texture to their space. It’s a fantastic fit for bohemian, coastal, or modern rustic interiors and for anyone who wants a bedroom side table that feels unique and thoughtfully designed.

Looking for More Options?

A white bedside table is a fantastic starting point, but every bedroom is unique. If these specific models aren't quite right, or if you're curating a complete bedroom set, there are many other styles to consider.

For more inspiration and to find the perfect match for your home, we invite you to explore our full collection of white wood bedroom furniture.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the ideal height for a bedside table? The top of your bedside table should be at a similar height to the top of your mattress, or slightly higher (within 5-10 cm). This makes it easy to reach for items like an alarm clock or a glass of water without having to sit up completely.

2. How much storage do I really need in a nightstand? This depends entirely on your personal habits. If you only need a surface for your phone and a lamp, a simple table with no drawers might suffice. However, if you're an avid reader or like to keep lotions, chargers and other items close by, a bedside table with drawers, such as a 2 drawer bedside table, is a practical choice for keeping your space tidy.

3. How can I style my bedside table without it looking cluttered? The key is to balance essentials with a few decorative touches. A good formula is: something tall (a lamp), something living (a small plant or fresh flowers) and something personal (a framed photo). Use a coaster for drinks and a small tray to corral items like lip balm or jewellery. Most importantly, leave enough clear space for the items you reach for every night and morning.