A bedside table is more than just a place to put your lamp and alarm clock. It’s the unsung hero of your bedroom, a small but mighty piece of furniture that keeps your nightly essentials within arm's reach and helps maintain a sense of calm and order. Yet, finding the right one can be a challenge. It needs to fit your space, match your style and offer the right kind of storage, all without overwhelming the room.
Whether you're furnishing a new home, updating your student digs or simply looking to declutter, the right nightstand can make all the difference. This guide is designed to help you navigate the options and find a bedside table that perfectly suits your needs.
Before you start browsing, consider a few key factors. Getting these right will ensure your new bedroom furniture is both functional and stylish.
The most common mistake is choosing a bedside table that is the wrong scale for the bed and the room. A good rule of thumb is to select a nightstand that is roughly the same height as the top of your mattress, or a few centimetres shorter. This makes it easy to reach for a glass of water or turn off your alarm. For smaller UK homes, a small bedside table or a narrow bedside table can be a lifesaver, fitting neatly into tight spaces without sacrificing utility. Always measure the available space beside your bed before you buy.
Think about what you need to store. Do you prefer a clean, minimalist surface, or do you have books, chargers and other items you want to keep close but out of sight?
Our bedrooms are no longer just for sleeping. For many, they are also a place to relax with a tablet or even work. A bedside table with a charging station is an increasingly popular choice, featuring built-in USB ports and AC outlets to keep your devices powered up and ready to go, eliminating the need for messy extension cords.
As your Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer, I've filtered through the options to highlight a few standout models that cater to different needs, spaces and styles.
Why It Stands Out: The Arlington table combines timeless design with everyday practicality. The two-tone finish—a clean white bedside table frame with a contrasting oak-effect top—is versatile enough to complement both modern and traditional bedroom decor. It strikes a perfect balance between concealed and open storage.
Pros:
Who is it for? Anyone seeking a reliable and stylish bedside table with a classic look that won't go out of fashion. It's an excellent choice for guest rooms or master bedrooms where simple elegance is desired.
Why It Stands Out: Specifically designed for tight quarters, this narrow bedside table is a brilliant space-saving solution. Measuring just 30 cm wide, it can fit into the slimmest of gaps. The set of two is perfect for creating a symmetrical look, and the innovative design allows you to position the two drawers on any of the three tiers.
Pros:
Who is it for? Renters, students or homeowners with small bedrooms who need a functional storage solution without sacrificing floor space. The set of two offers excellent value.
Why It Stands Out: This is more than just a bedside cabinet; it's a smart hub for your bedroom. The integrated bedside table with a charging station features two AC sockets and two USB ports, neatly housed in an angled panel for easy access. It also includes a remote-controlled RGB light strip to create ambient lighting.
Pros:
Who is it for? Those who use multiple electronic devices, work from their bedroom or simply appreciate modern, feature-rich bedroom furniture. It’s a practical upgrade for any contemporary home.
If these recommendations aren't quite the right fit, or if you'd like to explore different materials, colours and configurations, there are many more styles to discover.
Explore Our Full Range of Side Drawers and Bedside Tables
For easy access from your bed, a bedside table should be level with or slightly lower than the top of your mattress. A typical height range is between 50cm and 70cm, but you should measure your own bed to be sure.
There's no strict rule, but leaving a small gap of 5-10cm is practical. This prevents the table from feeling cramped against the bed and makes it easier to make the bed and retrieve anything that might fall into the gap.
Functionality is key. A good setup usually includes a lamp for reading, a place for your phone or an alarm clock and a coaster for a glass of water. Use the drawers or shelves for other items like books, hand cream and chargers to keep the surface clear and tidy.