A Practical Guide to Choosing a Bedside Table: Top UK Recommendations

A bedside table is more than just a place to put your lamp; it's a crucial piece of furniture that can define the functionality and feel of your bedroom. The right one keeps your essentials within arm's reach, reduces clutter and complements your decor. However, with so many styles and features available, finding the right fit for your space and needs can be a challenge.

As the Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer, my role is to help you navigate the options. This guide offers practical advice for selecting a bedside table and highlights a few recommendations that balance style, function and value for UK homes.

How to Select the Right Bedside Table

Before you start browsing, considering a few key factors will help you narrow down your search and ensure you make a choice you'll be happy with for years to come.

1. Measure Your Space and Height

The most common mistake is choosing a table that's the wrong scale for the room or bed. A bedside table should ideally be level with, or just a few centimetres above, the surface of your mattress. This makes it comfortable to reach for a glass of water or turn off your alarm. In the UK, this height is typically between 50cm and 65cm.

For those in modern flats or smaller bedrooms, a narrow bedside table can be a space-saving solution. Measure the width of the space you have available, ensuring you leave enough room for drawers or doors to open without being obstructed by your bed frame or the wall.

2. Assess Your Storage Needs

Consider what you need to store. Are you looking for a simple surface for a lamp and a book, or do you need to conceal clutter?

• Open Shelving: A table with open shelves is great for displaying decorative items or keeping frequently accessed books tidy.
• Drawers: A side table with drawers is excellent for discreet bedroom storage. It allows you to hide away chargers, medication and other personal items, keeping your bedroom looking neat and organised. A combination of both can offer a good balance.

3. Consider Modern Functionality

Our needs have evolved, and so has furniture. A bedside table with a charging station is an increasingly popular choice. These units feature built-in USB ports and standard plug sockets, allowing you to charge your phone, tablet and wearable tech overnight without a tangle of extension leads. This feature is particularly useful for creating a clean, minimalist look.

Recommended Bedside Tables

Based on common user needs for style, storage and modern features, here are a few standout options to consider.

Ochama Set of 2 Nightstands with Charging Station

Why It Stands Out: This nightstand set of 2 directly addresses the need for modern convenience. Each table includes an integrated power strip with two sockets and two USB ports, making it simple to keep all your devices charged. The clean lines and hidden handles give it a modern nightstand aesthetic that works well in contemporary bedrooms.

Pros:

• Built-in Charging: Features 2 AC outlets and 2 USB ports per table with a 2-metre lead.
• Ample Storage: A spacious tabletop and three deep drawers provide plenty of room.
• Coordinated Set: Offers a symmetrical and cohesive look for either side of the bed.
• Sturdy Build: Made from quality particleboard with a total static weight capacity of 62 kg per table.

Who is it for? This set is ideal for anyone looking to furnish a master bedroom with a matching pair of tables, prioritising integrated charging and generous, concealed storage.

HaluPeit Slim Bedside Tables Set of 2

Why It Stands Out: Designed specifically for tight spaces, this narrow bedside table measures just 30cm wide. Its most notable feature is the flexible storage system; the two drawers can be placed on any of the three shelf levels, allowing you to customise the layout to suit your needs.

Pros:

• Space-Saving Design: The 30cm width is perfect for small bedrooms, flats or awkward gaps.
• Flexible Storage: Interchangeable drawers can be positioned on the upper, middle or lower shelf.
• Generous Capacity: Despite its slim profile, it offers a tabletop, an open shelf and two drawers.
• Simple Assembly: Comes with clearly labelled parts and straightforward instructions.

Who is it for? A great choice for renters or homeowners with compact bedrooms where every centimetre counts. The customisable storage makes it highly practical for organising small items.

HOMCOM Industrial Bedside Table with 2 Drawers

Why It Stands Out: This industrial side table brings a strong design element to a room. The combination of a rustic brown wood-effect finish and a matte black metal frame creates a striking look. It offers a practical mix of storage with two drawers and a large open shelf.

Pros:

• Mixed Storage: Features two drawers for private items and an open shelf for easy access or display.
• Robust Construction: A strong metal frame supports the particleboard structure, with a total weight capacity of 80 kg.
• Stable on Uneven Floors: Includes adjustable feet to ensure the table remains balanced and stable.
• Versatile Style: The industrial aesthetic works well in modern, rustic or eclectic interiors.

Who is it for? This table is suited for someone who wants to make a style statement and values a blend of open and closed storage. It functions equally well as a nightstand or a living room side table.

Looking for Other Styles?

The recommendations above cover modern, functional and industrial designs, but your personal style might call for something different. If you are searching for a classic and versatile option that complements a wide range of decor, a black finish is often a reliable choice.

For more ideas, you can explore our curated collection of black bedside drawers to find a design that fits your bedroom perfectly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the standard height for a bedside table in the UK? A bedside table should generally be level with or slightly taller than the top of your mattress, which typically falls between 50cm and 65cm in height. This ensures items on the table are easy to reach while you are in bed.

How much space should you leave around a bedside table? It's good practice to leave at least 5-8cm of space on either side of the table to avoid a cramped appearance. More importantly, check that you have enough clearance for any drawers to open fully without being blocked by the bed frame, wall or other furniture.

Are bedside tables with charging stations safe? When purchased from a reputable source, units with integrated charging stations are designed to comply with UK electrical safety standards. They provide a convenient way to power devices. Always check the product specifications and follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding maximum load to ensure safe operation.