Joybuy Insights

Choosing the Right Bedside Table: Our Top Recommendations for 2026

A bedroom should be a sanctuary, a place of calm and order. Yet, the small space next to the bed often becomes a magnet for clutter—books, charging cables, glasses and half-empty mugs. A well-chosen bedside table is more than just furniture; it is a crucial component for maintaining a tidy and functional space, all while complementing your personal style.

As a Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer, my role is to help you find practical solutions that fit your home and lifestyle. This guide cuts through the clutter, offering clear advice and highlighting a few standout options to help you select the perfect nightstand for your needs.

How to Select the Right Bedside Table

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

1. Get the Proportions Right

The height and size of your bedside table are critical for both aesthetics and usability. A table that is too tall or too short can look awkward and be difficult to use. As a general rule, aim for a nightstand that is roughly level with the top of your mattress. This makes it easy to reach for a glass of water or turn off your alarm. Also, consider the footprint. If you have limited space, a small side table with a compact design will prevent the room from feeling cramped.

2. Assess Your Storage Needs

Think about what you need to store. Do you prefer to keep items tucked away out of sight, or do you like having books and decorative pieces on display? A side table with drawers, such as a 2 drawer bedside table, is excellent for concealing clutter and keeping surfaces clear. Models with open shelving offer easy access and a place to display your favourite items. Some designs offer a combination of both, providing a versatile storage solution.

3. Match Your Interior Style and Materials

The material and style of your bedside table should harmonise with your existing decor. For a raw, urban aesthetic, an industrial side table featuring metal frames and rustic wood finishes is a strong choice. If you favour a retro look, a mid century modern nightstand with tapered legs and clean lines will fit perfectly. For more traditional or country-style homes, a classic oak bedside table offers timeless appeal and durability. A grey bedside table is a highly versatile option that can blend seamlessly into contemporary, minimalist or classic interiors.

Our Top Recommendations for a Bedside Table in 2026

Here are a few recommendations that balance style, function and build quality, catering to different tastes and requirements.

Interiors by Premier Bedside Table Watson 2 Drawer

Interiors by Premier Bedside Table Watson 2 Drawer in a natural, grey and white finish

Why It Stands Out: This piece captures the essence of mid century modern nightstand design with its clean lines, splayed wooden legs and minimalist aesthetic. The striking contrast between the natural wood frame and the grey and white drawers creates a sophisticated focal point. Its handle-free design, featuring simple cut-outs, enhances its sleek profile while remaining practical.

Pros:

  • Stylish Design: The two-tone colour scheme and tapered legs offer a distinct mid-century look.
  • Concealed Storage: The 2 drawer bedside table design provides ample space to keep essentials hidden.
  • Compact Footprint: With dimensions of H52 x D36 x W42 cm, it is an ideal small side table for rooms where space is at a premium.
  • Sturdy Build: Solid wood legs provide a stable and durable base.

Who is it for? This table is perfect for individuals who appreciate retro-inspired design and need a compact, stylish storage solution for a modern bedroom or living room.

HOMCOM Bedside Table Industrial 2 Drawers

HOMCOM Bedside Table with an industrial rustic brown and black finish

Why It Stands Out: This HOMCOM table makes a bold statement with its industrial side table styling. The combination of a rustic brown wood-effect finish and a matte black metal frame creates a look that is both rugged and refined. It offers excellent versatility with its mixed storage—two drawers for private items and an open shelf for easy-access essentials or display.

Pros:

  • Mixed Storage: Features two drawers and an open shelf, offering the best of both worlds.
  • Durable Frame: The metal frame ensures a solid structure with a high weight capacity of 80kg overall.
  • Adjustable Feet: Helps to keep the table stable and balanced on uneven floors.
  • Versatile Use: Functions equally well as a nightstand in the bedroom or an end table in the living room.

Who is it for? Ideal for those who favour industrial or rustic decor and appreciate furniture that provides flexible storage options. Its robust build makes it a practical choice for busy households.

Bedside Table Windermere 3 Drawers Oak Top

Bedside Table Windermere with 3 drawers, an oak top and a grey painted base

Why It Stands Out: The Windermere bedside table offers a timeless, classic look with its contrasting oyster grey painted base and natural oak bedside table top. It is the most storage-heavy option on our list, featuring three spacious drawers perfect for anyone needing to maximise their bedside organisation. The traditional silver-finish cup handles add a touch of elegance.

Pros:

  • Maximum Storage: Three deep drawers provide extensive space for storing books, electronics and personal items.
  • Classic Aesthetics: The two-tone finish and traditional hardware suit country, coastal and classic interiors.
  • Durable Materials: A solid oak and oak veneer top ensures longevity and resilience against daily use.
  • No Assembly Required: This item arrives fully assembled, ready to be placed in your room.

Who is it for? This is an excellent choice for someone who prioritises storage capacity and prefers a traditional, sturdy piece of furniture that will stand the test of time.

Looking for More Options?

If the styles above are not quite what you are looking for, there is a wide world of bedside tables to explore. Different colours, materials and configurations can dramatically change the feel of your room. For a particularly popular and versatile choice that complements many different decor schemes, explore our full collection of grey wood bedside tables to find the perfect match for your space.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the correct height for a bedside table?

The ideal height for a bedside table is one that is level with or just a few centimetres below the top of your mattress. This typically falls in the range of 50-65 cm. This height ensures you can comfortably reach items on the table without straining.

Can an end table be used as a nightstand?

Absolutely. The terms end table, side table and nightstand are often used interchangeably. The primary difference is their intended placement. As long as the dimensions, particularly the height and storage features suit your bedroom's needs, an end table can serve perfectly well as a nightstand.

How do I choose between drawers and open shelves?

Your choice depends on your organisational style and what you plan to store. Drawers are ideal for concealing clutter, personal items and anything you prefer to keep out of sight. Open shelves are better suited for displaying books, decorative objects or items you need to grab quickly, like your phone or a book. Some of the most functional designs offer a combination of both.